In busy early learning programs, creating peaceful classrooms for the children in our care can be especially difficult when little ones display challenging behaviors. Incorporating mindfulness into your routine can help navigate, respond to, and maybe even prevent some of these challenging behaviors.
In this article, you’ll find games that use movement to help young children practice important concepts like number sense, shape recognition, pattern matching, and more – all of which will set them up for a smooth transition into elementary school math.
Not only does physical movement offer young children a way to exercise and strengthen their growing bodies— it also supports their developing brains! In this article, we explore the benefits of movement in early childhood and the many ways that physical activity can support learning.
Healthy, supportive relationships are a critical part of development, in early childhood and beyond. As educators, we can support these early interactions by introducing children to the skills and qualities that will help them form meaningful friendships.
3-dimensional art projects are an enjoyable and unique way for children to express themselves artistically and explore many aspects of STEAM learning like balance, spatial awareness, and innovation. In this article, you’ll find interesting STEAM art projects to enjoy with the children in your care.
For young children, the discovery of who they are is an important part of social and emotional development that continues throughout childhood. Educators and caregivers can support this discovery process through thoughtful curriculum planning and supportive interactions.
Nap time supports the bodies and minds of young children and contributes to their ability to learn and play. In this article, we share practices that can help to create a safe and restful nap time for the young children in your care.
Sensory activities that allow children to squish, squeeze, and explore support early development by encouraging little ones to discover with their senses as they strengthen the fine motor skills in their hands and fingers. In this article, we share some simple-to-prepare recipes for sensory learning activities that are both engaging and safe.
In addition to selecting and arranging thoughtful and intentional materials in our learning environments, we may also consider the specific way that we offer materials to children to inspire curiosity, interest, and engagement. This article explores “invitations to play,” an idea from Reggio Emilia programs that supports children’s playful exploration and investigation.
Young children learn within the context of relationships, as they observe and connect with parents, caregivers, and peers. This article highlights some of the ways that mixed-age ECE programs can support early learning and development and offers suggestions for educators who care for children in mixed-age settings.