If you're anything like me you've been amazed at many 2 year old experts and their apparent breadth of knowledge on a topic. Young children, toddlers and preschoolers, can become interested in variety of different things. Their brains though are hard-wired to focus on only a few items of interest. This will change as their brains continue to develop to allow for a wider range of topics later on. Besides that physiological reason, fixating on one interest can give children a sense of control … [Read more...]
Cool Down in the Sun with Sponge Bombs
In the Pacific Northwest July 4th is considered the beginning of Summer. As a kid Summer meant visiting my cousins in Arizona and Texas. Talk about sun, heat and fun! We played outside for a majority of the day. And, to be able to live through the heat, we'd be: •In the water or •On the water or •Using water to stay cool. I really should say cooler because I don't think anyone can say they're cool in 110° + heat! Highlights were going to the pool or floating down the Verde River* but some … [Read more...]
Screen Time: Dreaming of Toys Guest Post
How much screen time would you guess kiddos have each and every day? According to Childwise, a market research firm, children aged 5 to 16 spend an average of 6.5 hours/day in front of a screen compared with around 3 hours back in 1995. Does this concern you like it does me? I'm grateful for the following guest post--read on! Back in the Day... Though I’m loathe to admit it, I’m old enough (and have been for awhile) to tell stories that begin with, “When I was a kid…” but in this case … [Read more...]
Old McDonald Had a Farm and More!
With a preschool based on a farm, 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! Animals can teach children so much! Beyond the basics like: ● what they look like ● the sounds they make ● what they eat ● the names for male, female and baby … [Read more...]
Work Your Body Grow Your Brain, A Book Review
In teaching a yoga class recently I realized how similar yoga is to ECE developmentally appropriate practice. By that I mean, both address the individual in a holistic way: Either in a practice that unites mind, body and spirit OR activities and/or experiences that address all areas of development ( Physical, Emotional, Social and Cognitive). Often it’s the promise of physical benefits that draws students in to yoga. Before too long, the other aspects naturally follow. I received the book, … [Read more...]