Young children begin taking formal “lessons” in activities for a number of reasons: Mom or Dad thinks it’s a great idea, the child has expressed interest, friends are participating, they liked the leotard or karate outfit, etc. Most of the time these activties are wonderful and children thoroughly enjoy them. But what happens if your Read More
tips
Discipline Is Not A Bad Word!
Many parents today are concerned about disciplining their children. Some don’t want to be “mean,” others don’t want to “damage” their children. Some want to be “friends” with their kids, and others just aren’t sure how to do it. The key in positive discipline and limit setting is to teach cooperation! You can start Read More
Tips For Preparing Your Child For Nursery School
The most important way to help your child feel comfortable with the idea of beginning nursery school is to make sure you are comfortable with the idea of him or her beginning nursery school. If you have questions or concerns call the school and speak with your child’s teacher, the director, or the school’s early Read More
5 Do-It-Yourself Warm Weather Science Activities Kids Will Love
Sometimes the park can keep children busy for hours, and other days it’s just doesn’t cut it. Be prepared! These activities are sure to keep your children engaged and may even teach them a little about science along the way! 1-Use Water– Go to the dollar store and keep spray bottles, paint rollers and paint brushes in Read More
My Favorite Things: Gyrowheel
Every now and again I come across a product that I believe is revolutionary. Gyrowheel is that product. As a “failed” bike rider myself (I can go a couple of feet now, but it’s not good), I have always wondered how to make this an easier process for children. That’s exactly what Gyrowheel does. Gyrowheel Read More
Showing Emotions to Children
I recently wrote about how aware children are of what their parents are communicating through language and behavior. This is true both after extreme events and during the typical day. When a parent is anxious during separation at school, the child knows. When a grownup holds the child’s hand just a little bit tighter while Read More
Plan to Play: The Animals on the Bus
For most children, farm animals are a standard toy chest item. Two of my favorites are Soft Touch Baby Farm Animals and Aurora My Barnyard Friends Carrier with Sounds. For a barn and animal set, the Fisher Price Little People Animal Sounds Farm is a favorite! The problem is, one can only play with animals Read More
A Post About Bin Laden’s Death
Whether talking about his life or death, I struggle with giving this man more than his 15 minutes of fame. To be sure, in my opinion, he didn’t even deserve that much. Many people have strong feelings about last night’s events. Many will be discussing them today and for days to come. When doing so, Read More
Why Does He Have That?
Recently, more and more early childhood programs have opened their doors to children with a variety of needs. These integrated and inclusive communities are wonderful places for all children to learn and are fantastic in a multitude of other ways. The law says that children with special needs must be educated in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). Read More
Immediate, Natural Consequences
Whenever I speak to parents about discipline, amongst other things, we discuss developmentally appropriate expectations, consistency, positive alternatives, and immediate, natural consequences. Immediate, natural consequences are particularly important to explain because often, they don’t come immediately or naturally, to a grown up. First things first: what is an immediate, natural consequence? Using positive discipline begins by teaching Read More