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May 2, 2019 It’s Rhyme Time!
Children enjoy listening to books that use rhyming language! Rhyming stories include fun, rhythmic language and are read in a sing-song style that make these books engaging while also helping children develop skills in language and early literacy. As children listen to books with rhyme, they are learning about similarities of sounds in spoken words.
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April 25, 2019 6 Books That Celebrate Diversity
While diversity is an important topic to talk about in early childhood, it can sometimes be hard to find a way to introduce these topics to children. If you are looking for a way to start the conversation, a book can be a great opportunity. Stories are easy ways to create moments to talk to children about the importance of accepting themselves and their peers for all of our similarities and differences.
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April 11, 2019 5 Ways to Make Playdough
Did you know that playdough can easily be made at home or in your center using just a few simple ingredients? Not only is playdough a fun activity, but it also has several developmental benefits for early learners. View our list of 5 different ways to make your own playdough. Each has a different smell and texture, making it fun to try out each recipe and find your new favorite!
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February 14, 2019 Why is Kindness Important in Early Learning?
Fred Rogers said, “There are three ways to ultimate success: The first way is to be kind. The second way is to be kind. The third way is to be kind.” As a champion of Early Childhood Education and Social-Emotional Learning, Mr. Rogers saw the value and importance of teaching kindness, love, and compassion to preschoolers. These lessons have lifelong benefits for children’s physical and emotional wellbeing, both inside and out of the classroom. Children who are taught kindness in early childhood have tools for healthier relationships and personal success later in life.
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January 31, 2019 Understanding Separation Anxiety
Although separation anxiety is a very normal part of child development, it is still stressful… for children, parents, and caregivers. When children feel sad or anxious, it is important for us to have a clear understanding of what is going on in order to properly support their needs. With this understanding, we can create a plan with children and their parents that supports each child’s individual transition process.
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January 10, 2019 Toys with Intent: Why we Should Choose Carefully When Offering Materials for Play
In an interview with NAEYC, Jeffrey Trawick-Smith, Professor of Early Childhood Education at the Center for Early Childhood Education at Eastern Connecticut State University, shared research about toys and play. He stated that because different toys impact children’s behavior in different ways, teachers can and should be thoughtful about the decisions they make when selecting toys.
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January 4, 2019 Cleaning Up with Early Learners
Cleaning up is an important part of classroom routine. It represents respect and care for the shared space that you and the children spend so much time in together. When children are encouraged to be a part of the cleaning process, they also begin to take ownership and accountability for the materials they use during play. However, our expectations must be in line with a child’s capability.
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December 27, 2018 Winter Curriculum Ideas
With the chilly winter weather, it can be challenging to spend as much time outdoors as we might like. Rain can force us to stay cooped up indoors and early dark evenings can sometimes even cut short our outdoor play time in the afternoon. On days like these, you might be looking for some new activities or projects to try with the children in your care to add some variety to your time spent inside. We have listed some fun and simple ways to bring the outdoors into the classroom with art projects and activities.
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December 21, 2018 Preschool & Pre-K Favorite Songs
Planning music curriculum is an important part of our work as educators and caregivers, as music can have such an impact on the flow of the day. According to Judi Bosco, a board-certified music therapist, “Music brings people together…Children learn about themselves and others by playing music together and by listening to each other.” This week, we are sharing our top 3 favorite songs to sing with 3-5 year-olds.
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November 14, 2018 New York Times Best Illustrated Children’s Books of 2018
In collaboration with New York Public Library, The 2018 New York Times rated Best Illustrated Children’s Books of 2018 in the United States. The winners were selected on only the basis of artistic merit and feature several great additions to add to your collection! Check out the winners to find several potential new books to introduce to the children you work with.
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