“S” is for Summer, Swimming and Safety! What’s this? Could Teacher Karen have had a change in philosophy? NO! I’m still not fond of ‘letter of the day’ style of teaching for young children. I think it buys into the whole push-down academics model that is so prevalent right now. Kindergarteners and preschoolers should not be expected to master topics or skills that traditionally were reserved for later grades and older children. There are important, foundational steps and accomplishments young … [Read more...]
To Nap or Not To Nap: When & How
The topic: Nap time. Specifically when to be nap free. So I did an (unscientific) poll to find out when kiddos give up taking a nap. The results showed my children were on the early side, stopping before 2. The consensus was somewhere between 2-4 years of age. Mr Teacher Karen napped consistently throughout his kindergarten years and many parents posted comments that their older children napped well into their 3rd, 4th and 5th years too. It’s been too … [Read more...]
PEPS–A Family Affair
When I am invited to speak at a PEPS group I look forward to it for many reasons. I’m very happy to be able to share the importance of PLAY, and its many benefits, of course, with new parents. I love to give them PLAY-based learning activities they can do with their babies. And, I like to take every opportunity to emphasize the importance of immersing babies in language right from the start. But the BEST thing about speaking at a PEPS group? In a word: BABIES! I am over-the-moon thrilled to see … [Read more...]
The 5Rs of Early Childhood Education
School –what that usually means revolves around the 3Rs: “Readin’ and 'Ritin' and 'Rithmetic” When it comes to young children and their early education though, the 3Rs don’t apply. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatrics encourages parents, as their children’s first—and most important teachers—to follow the 5Rs of early childhood education. They are: Read●Rhyme●Routines●Reward●Relationships READ—set aside time to read together, every day, with your child. Reading with your child … [Read more...]
Babies’ Laughter: Music to My Ears
Babies' laughter--there's just nothing sweeter to hear! I would go so far as to say no one can resist breaking into a huge smile, if not joining right in with them! LAUGHING is a way babies interact with family members. I recently read an article that shed light on just how much more information we can glean from babies' laughter! In the article Peek-a-Boo: A Window on Baby's Brain laughter is shown to been an effective tool at pinpointing stages in the way a baby's minds is growing … [Read more...]