You’ve heard about it before—parents going through considerable time, effort and expense to select just that perfect toy. Usually it's the latest and greatest, but , more often than not, their little one seems much more interested in playing with the packaging it came in. How about you? Did your kiddo have more interest and fun ripping wrapping paper off and away than playing with the gift inside? Children don’t need a lot of bells and whistles to PLAY. In fact, I’d go so far as to say all … [Read more...]
Give Gifts, a Sensory Activity for Gratitude
It is better to give than receive. We’ve all heard that and, of course, it’s true! I know my heart fills with delight in seeing others truly happy with something I’ve done for or given them. Letting children experience this helps them to develop a sense of gratitude. Giving can be done in many ways: ---------------------------------------------------helping around the house -----------------------------------------------------choosing a special gift; or -------------------------------- … [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! ● Beyond the basics like: · their looks · the sounds they make · foods … [Read more...]
Taking-Off! It’s Time for Holiday Travel
Holiday times are here! They are busy times. Memory-making times. Full-of-family-and-FUN times! Travel. AND stress! Do have travel coming up? If so, with some PLANNING, and even travelling with your kiddos, you’ll think “It’s The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” PLAN & Be PREPARED You’ve been a parent for a while now, you know to expect the unexpected so PLAN for it and be PREPARED! Better Safe Than Sorry... ● Safety comes 1st especially during the holidays when there are more people … [Read more...]
Learning Activities–It Can Be All Fun & Games
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...]