PLAY is the WAY children learn during the early childhood years. How fortunate that is for parents, caregivers and/or their teachers! Because when PLAY is the basis for learning activities it makes learning not only fun, but something that happens naturally. Plus, as an added bonus, it also creates a desire to continue to want to learn! Focus on the Senses: Provide as many opportunities for your kiddos to engage their senses—and if they use more than one for the same activity all the better! … [Read more...]
Old McDonald Had a Farm and More!
It wasn't on Old McDonald's Farm, but my preschool was housed on a farm. That meant learning and interacting with animals was, by default and design, mandatory. I enjoyed introducing children to and sharing with the joys of being up-close and personal with the farm animals. Just like I enjoy it with my grandchildren! Farm Animals Teach Children So Much! ● The basics like: · their looks; · the sounds they make; · what foods … [Read more...]
Why Pretend Play is Important
What's one of the best ways to guarantee your child will thrive? By carefully tending to their creative spirit and infusing a sense of PLAYfulness to their learning. And guess what? Creativity and PLAYfulness come together naturally in pretend PLAY! What is Pretend PLAY? • Starts around 2 to 3 years of age • Scenes and people from family life, school and/or daycare all act as inspiration • It revolves around the acting out of stories. Stories' themes let kids: · explore multiple … [Read more...]
Creating Schedules–Managing Stress for Your Child
Pandemics certainly qualify as stressful times for children. Other Life events like divorce, illness (or death), or moving are full of stress too. It’s during times of stress or uncertainty children find comfort in routines. Schedules are routines put to paper, whiteboard chart, or electronically on your phone. It’s the predictability of schedules that lets children know what to expect. CHANGE is the Only Constant in Life... Right now families are in the midst of dealing with the coronavirus. … [Read more...]
It’s Easy as 1, 2, 3–Why Math Readiness is Important
What is math readiness? For young children it encompasses a handful of principles. Have you ever heard anyone say “I hate math” or “I’m no good at math”? I literally don’t understand those comments. It’s impossible to get on in Life without math. Children, in particular, need to be exposed straightaway to math activities to add to their concrete knowledge base. And by math activities I don’t mean filling in worksheets or completing levels of a computer game. Oh my NO!! Step out your door and … [Read more...]
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