Did you know August 9th is Book Lovers Day? They say the 1st step in dealing with any problem is acknowledging there is a problem. Well I have made it known, over and over, I have a weakness for children's books. And especially on this #BookLoversDay I wouldn't think of trying to rein in my obsession! I got to thinking about fun activities families do during the summer and camping came to mind. Why? Because one of the de rigueur duties associated with camping is telling stories around the … [Read more...]
Together We Can, A Book Review
The beginning of preschool was the beginning of many new friendships. It’s during this special, even magical time, the early childhood years when kiddos learn (optimally in a PLAY situation) and hone their social skills. They go from being somewhat narcissistic to being able to see things from other people’s point of views. Social interactions between kiddos develop important traits like compassion, empathy and kindness as well as cooperation, collaboration and sharing. In other words, what it … [Read more...]
Toddlers with One Track Minds–The 2 Year Old Experts
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...]
There’s No App Better than Your Lap
Children are made readers on the laps of their parents. This quote by Emilie Buchwald says it all. Children learn language from direct interaction with meaningful people in their lives. Learning is facilitated when children have trusting relationships. So just imagine the amount of learning potential when parents read to their children! During February, the month of LOVE, help your child develop a LOVE for reading! Commit to reading at least 1 story/day for the rest of the month. That’s … [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...]