Many kids are “slow to warm up,” meaning they are uneasy or cautious in new situations or with unfamiliar people. As babies, maybe they didn’t like being held by just anyone. As toddlers, perhaps they stay on the “sidelines” for a while, watching what others...
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Learning experiences build on existing knowledge (something familiar) and invite children to extend their thinking in a way that balances safety and risk (curiosity). Optimal learning allows kids to construct knowledge through exploration and investigation, with...
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In a reciprocal relationship, each person is equally respected and valued. The relationship is balanced so that both people feel seen and heard. When you engage in a reciprocal relationship with your kids, you shift from a “you and me” approach to an...
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What Does Confidence Look Like in Kids? Developing self-confidence begins at birth, and it starts with building trust. When babies feel safe and secure, they trust the people and the world around them. Then, they start to explore, developing confidence in themselves...
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Confidence comes from who we believe and know ourselves to be, and what we believe and know we can do. This belief and this knowledge come from having experiences, and by learning from them. Kids develop confidence by being curious, and by learning from the...
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Blocks are both a great learning tool and toy for kiddos! Here are a few things they learn when they play with blocks: Imagination Self-Esteem Science Skills Math Concepts Social and Emotional Growth Creativity Problem Solving...
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Help your kids connect to their world – by playing in the mud! Mud may be messy, but it’s also a raw, everyday material that offers unique, hands-on sensory experiences and is available almost anywhere. Here are just a few ways you can use mud to play with...
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Families have many options for where their children learn and grow when they are not at home. It’s important to get to know the differences and similarities between the early childhood settings, so you can choose which style works best for your family. You can...
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There are so many benefits to playing in water for kids! Here are a few reasons why! You can download this printable...
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Transitioning your baby to solid foods is an adorably messy and exciting milestone. There can be a lot to think about when the time comes, so here are some quick tips to keep in mind. You can download this printable...
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Starting your baby on solid foods can be an intimidating transition. Here is an overview of new foods to try and when to add them to your baby’s diet. You can download this printable...
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When kids are curious, they are eager to explore and learn. The Curious Minds Domain of Development encompasses concepts, skills and actions that help kids explore, understand, and take an active roll in the world around them. You can download this printable...
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Learning happens when kids feel welcome and comfortable in their environment, and when they have easy access to all the tools they need. Accessible environments are designed with learners in mind and organized in such a way that everyone in the space can easily...
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When you give kids what they need in the moment – like a smile, a hug, or some help – you are responding to their actions and words in a positive and respectful way. Noticing, connecting, and responding to their needs is what makes up responsive interaction. You...
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Learning to recognize the emotions they are feeling will help your kids understand how to handle them – within themselves and with empathy for others. You can download this printable...
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Bringing a baby home is a huge transition for an older sibling. Before your baby is born, read books together about new babies, siblings, big brothers and big sisters and talk to your kids about some of the things they can expect. When baby arrives, try these tactics...
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Children learn about relationships from the adults who care for them. Being genuine in what you say and do creates honest, authentic relationships built on trust. This is true of your relationships with adults and kids! You can download this printable...
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It starts with rolling, and then crawling, and before you know it your baby is walking … and running! You can support your baby through mobility transitions by encouraging and participating. You can download this printable...
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It all starts with rolling. Whether your baby rolls from tummy to back or back to tummy, or does a half-roll to the side, this means your baby is officially mobile! You can support your baby through mobility transitions by encouraging and participating! You can...
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In recent years, researchers have learned a lot more about how early experiences shape children. Here are 8 great things to know and remember when it comes to early child development. 1. Stress can harm children’s brains and bodies. When they are in utero and...
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Mindfulness allows us to observe our surroundings, thoughts, and feelings, and to develop self-awareness. Mindfulness can teach your kids to focus, help them regulate their emotions, and improve their concentration. Try being mindful together with these easy...
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“Serve and return” is about the everyday, back and forth interactions you have with your kids. It’s the practice of noticing and responding to their cues with eye contact, words, a hug, or other easy actions. These show kids that they are seen and heard, they build...
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It’s important to feel comfortable with your pediatrician and to have an open line of communication. Well checks are a perfect time to talk about how your baby is growing and what you can expect over the following months. While your pediatrician will have a lot to...
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Taking your little one to child care can be a difficult decision and an emotional experience. Here are a few ways to ease the transition. Here are a few ways you can help ease your baby’s transition into their first child care setting. Prepare for the change...
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Developing strong and healthy bodies has to do with the food children eat, the physical activities they participate in, their ability to help themselves meet basic needs, and the ways in which they use the muscles in their bodies. The Strong & Healthy Bodies...
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