Little friends Noah and Evan were having a playdate, but it wasn’t going well. They both NEEDED Noah’s nice, new dump truck. Noah’s Dad heard screams of “Mine! Mine!” and went to smooth things out. “Come on guys, you need to share the truck. Let’s see you sharing nicely.” “It’s mine!” “I wanna use it!” […]
We’ve bumped up the mealtime chatter in your home. We’ve ensured your little one can help safely in the kitchen – and learn a bunch in the process, too. Now, it’s time to cook! Here are two fool-proof recipes that young children love to make – and eat. From my family to yours – […]
My little one likes to have “combersations” at mealtimes. But she really has no choice – we’re a family of talkers. Her older sister and brothers yak over their school time triumphs and tragedies, and Dad and I elbow our way in to ask questions, offer occasional advice, and ensure everyone gets a turn. But […]
Regular family mealtimes have proven benefits such as better manners for the kids and healthier meals for the whole family. But did you know family mealtime can also help your child gain communication skills, improved learning, and problem-solving abilities? Regular family meals also build closer relationships among family members, setting a trusting foundation for when […]
Hosting a playdate at home is one thing, but going to someone else’s house – where the rules, snacks, and potty are different – is a whole new experience. Here’s how to prepare your child to have a great time – and be invited back! The Invite – Say “yes” when you know (and trust) […]
Great playdates make for happier, healthier children. In our first article in the series, we discussed WHY. Today, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of HOW to host a simple, fun, and smooth-running playdate. A little planning goes a long way when it comes to hosting a great playdate. My tips: Parent Planning – Talk […]
Success in School Starts With Literacy Education As early childhood educators, it’s our goal to provide children with skills for success in school and beyond, and it all starts with learning literacy at an early age. When making the transition from early childhood to kindergarten, children who are exposed to literacy education early are more […]
Everyone knows playdates are fun. But did you know they actually boost your child’s brain power, too? In my next three articles, I’ll explain why. I’ll also give you tips on how to host a successful playdate, how your child can be a gracious playdate guest, and explain how even babies can benefit from playdates. […]
Your little ones’ senses—vision, hearing, balance, hearing, smell and touch—all help your children to learn better. When their senses are stimulated, it increases the information brought to their growing minds and fine-tunes their nervous systems in the process. Fall’s new sights, sounds, and activities are great opportunities to sharpen those senses – and have fun […]
It’s easier than you think to fill your preschooler’s summer days with playful learning experiences. In fact, with some basic activities, you’ll be providing opportunities for your child to develop, grow, and learn. And the best part is these activities don’t cost a fortune or require too much preparation. 1. Pretend Play Encourage your child […]
Spend time with your little ones having fun and creating these simple Mother’s Day gifts, from Kaboose.com and Spoonful.com*: Transform a plain paper plate into a delightful card for Mom. Use craft sticks, glue, and colorful beads to create a jewelry box Mom or Grandma will love. These adorable Mom ‘n’ Me Wooden Spoon Dolls […]
Both Teacher and Provider Appreciation Days are celebrated in May. During this month, thousands of communities will take time to honor their teachers and caregivers and acknowledge the role they play in instilling a love of learning in the children in their care. Looking for an inexpensive yet heartfelt way to say “thank you” that […]