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3 Major Benefits of Outdoor Play for Preschoolers

Thu, 30 May 2019 16:06:03 GMT

With the warm weather in full-swing, outdoor play-time is on the preschooler's agenda. But with a growing trend towards indoor technology use, contemporary kids aren't getting the same amount of outdoor activity as generations past. If your child prefers the screen over the swing set, take a look at why your preschooler needs to play outside and how you can help them to enjoy the great outdoors.

Physical Fitness

Sitting in front of a screen is a sedentary activity that has both pros and cons. While technology certainly has its place in early childhood education, your child needs to develop more than their mind.

Physical activity provides a way to build on budding cognitive skills, helping kids to actively problem solve and negotiate the space around them. Beyond that, it builds vital gross motor abilities - such as coordination, strength, and balance.

While there are no specific recommendations for children under age five, kids six and up should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Even though the CDC's guidelines don't extend to the preschool set, experts still advise that young children get plenty of activity.

If your child resists outdoor physical activity or favors indoor screen-based play, then build on their existing interests. This may mean acting out a favorite book, TV show, or movie in real life as an outdoor physical play activity or letting your child pick an outside game.

Social and Emotional Development

Playing outdoors with preschool classmates or neighborhood friends will help your child to build valuable social skills. Whether your child is playing a game of tag in the backyard, tossing a ball back and forth in the preschool outdoor play area, or engaging in any other group activity, they're learning how to negotiate social situations, communicate, and develop true friendships.

Beyond the social benefits of outdoor play, this type of nature-based activity can also contribute to your child's emotional development. These two areas of human development are closely tied together because one area will help your child to build skills in the other.

Along with helping your child to share and cooperate with others (social and emotional skills), outdoor play can also reduce stress and possibly even lead to improved mental health. One study, from Aarhus University, found that children who grow up without green (outdoor) spaces are at a 55 percent increased risk for developing later-in-life mental disorders.

If you're looking for ways to help your child socialize through outdoor play start at school. Talk to your child's pre-k teacher and ask them if your child eagerly plays outdoors with the other children. When outdoor play resistance is an at-home only event, take a cue from the preschool class and try some of your child's school-time games/activities or invite a few classmates over for a backyard playdate.

Exploration and Creative Thinking

The backyard, playground, or school play yard are more than just outdoor spaces. Their science laboratories, nature zones, and exploration areas. Along with building physical skills, outdoor play provides your preschooler with the chance to discover the world around them, learn about scientific concepts, and improve creative thought processes.

How can you help your young child to explore outdoors? Again, talk to the teacher. Ask about current science concepts or themes that you can carry from the classroom to the backyard. This could include searching for insects with a magnifying glass, growing a garden, observing animals on a nature walk, or other similar early childhood activities.

Are you searching for a new preschool program that can help your child learn, grow, and develop? Contact Kids & Company for more information.

Your Preschooler's Not a Morning Person? Prevent School Lateness

Sat, 30 Mar 2019 16:13:36 GMT

Just like adults, not all preschoolers are morning people! Some are cranky in the mornings; others are slow. Trying to get an uncooperative preschooler out the door and to school on time can be a challenge. But if you prepare ahead of time, you can make the mornings easier on your little one. Here's what you need to know.

1. Do as Much as Possible the Night Before

Have your child's clothing, shoes, bag, and other items ready to go the night before. This way, your preschooler can get dressed faster and more efficiently. This also prevents meltdowns when a shoe is missing, or they can't find their favorite sweater on the way out the door.

2. Follow a Routine

Preschoolers thrive on routines. Establish a clear, consistent routine for school mornings so that your child will know what to expect. This will allow your child to be more independent in the morning and may reduce arguments.

3. Give Choices

Preschoolers love to make choices about things that affect their lives. When they have choices, many become more cooperative and compliant. Give your child ownership over their morning routine by allowing your child a choice of weather-appropriate clothing and shoes.

Doing this will prevent the "but I don't want to wear that!" argument. To avoid issues with food, allow your child to choose what they will eat for breakfast and lunch.

4. Practice

Young children learn best through experience. Ask your child to practice their morning routine, either by replicating it on weekend mornings or simply by pretending it is morning at a different time of the day. Turn this into a game and use a stopwatch to time your child's speed, and then challenge your child to beat their best time.

5. Allow Them to Earn Time for a Preferred Activity

Reward your child if they're ready before it's time to go out the door by allowing them to have time for a preferred activity. Give them a few minutes of screen time or time to play with a favorite toy. If there isn't enough time, you could also allow your child to earn a preferred activity that they can do in the car on their way to preschool.

6. Simplify Breakfast

Shave time off your morning routine by switching to foods that you can make in advance, like overnight oats or make-ahead breakfast bars. Stay away from foods that have to be made on the spot, like eggs or toast. This will free up more time for you to be active in your preschooler's morning routine, so it will be easier for you to keep them on task.

7. Make Sure They Sleep Enough

If your child still struggles with their morning routine after you implement these suggestions, your child may be overly tired. Move your child's bedtime to an earlier time, and see if getting an extra half an hour to an hour of sleep makes the morning go more smoothly.

While you examine sleep schedules, take a look at your own. If you feel off in the mornings, your child may be responding to (and mirroring) your emotional state. Go to bed earlier, and get up with enough time to have a cup of coffee before waking your child for the morning.

Want Info About Making Preschool Work? Talk to the Experts

A lot of kids struggle with preschool in the beginning. Changes to routines, new children, and strange places can be a challenge. If your little one has trouble with preschool, talk to your child's preschool teacher for suggestions.

At Kids & Company, we're happy to give you suggestions. Call us today for more information.

Dealing With Separation Anxiety in Children

Wed, 30 Jan 2019 16:21:42 GMT

Every child is different, and you never know when, or if, separation anxiety will become an issue. Some kids have no problem skipping into a child care center and are eager for Mom or Dad to leave. Others have a difficult time saying goodbye. Still other kids might have some days when they're excited for time with their friends and other days when they cling to a parent's leg.

In these last cases, parents sometimes have trouble figuring out what triggers their child's separation anxiety. The good news is that there are ways to work through these separation anxiety issues. Compassionate caregivers at the child care center and understanding parents can help children through this important step that's just part of growing up.

At-Home Preparations

If a child care center is new to your child, help ease his or her anxiety by visiting the center. Show your child some exciting toys and introduce your child to his or her caregiver. Show your child where his or her belongings will go while he or she is at school.

When you return home, discuss everything you saw. Talk about which parts of the child care center are exciting. Discuss the day's schedule so your child knows what to expect. If your child expresses particular anxieties, talk through them. Even if the worry seems small, don't dismiss it. A worry that seems small to you could be overwhelming to your child.

If the child care center is not new to your child, but new separation anxiety appears, it could be a result of developmental changes. Practice short separations at home. For example, leave your child in the living room while you go into the kitchen to get a snack. Explain to your child that you'll return quickly, and then keep your promise.

Playing peek-a-boo is another way to help a child with separation anxiety. You also could play hide-and-seek. Another option is to play a fun transition game between peek-a-boo and hide-and-seek. Hide around a corner, out of your child's sight, and then pop out with a smile. This game will teach your child that even if you go away for a while, you'll always return.

At the Child Care Center

To help your child separate from you at the child care center, establish a routine that your child can rely on. For example, walk into the center, remove your child's coat, help him or her with hand washing and settle your child at a favorite activity. It might be the same activity every day that you can engage in together. For example, drawing, completing a puzzle, or playing with clay are calming and engaging activities.

When it's time to say goodbye, be matter-of-fact. Tell your child when you'll return in terms your child can understand. For example, say, "I'll return after your snack," instead of, "I'll return at 3 o'clock."

Give your child a quick hug, or maybe you create a secret handshake or funny wave that you only use when you're leaving your child at the child care center. Enlist the help of a care provider to distract your child in a fun activity when it's time to leave.

Finally, don't linger. Be confident and positive when you say goodbye to your child because your child will take his or her emotional cues from you. It's important not to sneak out, even if it's tempting. Leaving without telling your child you're going can erode his or her trust and make separation anxiety worse. It's scary for a child to look up from an activity only to discover his or her parent disappeared.

If you're looking for a child care center that can support you and your child through challenges like separation anxiety, contact Kids & Company today at one of our many locations!

Is Your Child Ready for Preschool?

Fri, 30 Nov 2018 16:31:13 GMT

Deciding whether to send your child to preschool or not is one of the earliest decisions you make for your child's education. Your child's future success in school begins with making positive decisions based on their needs.

While many preschools begin taking children while they are still toddlers, this does not mean you and your child are ready. You may want to ensure your child is emotionally, socially, physically, and cognitively developed enough to attend an educational program with other children.

Continue reading to see if your child is ready to begin preschool.

Physical Independence

Children require some sense of independence to get through preschool. For example, most preschools expect your child to be potty-trained already. Your child must also be able to wash their hands and eat without major assistance.

Part of the need for this physical independence is so students can work on projects without the need for constant assistance. Children are good candidates for preschool if they often concentrate on arts, crafts, puzzles, and other activities on their own.

Additionally, the children best suited for preschool are those who do not need to take many naps throughout the day.

Emotional Independence

Children who have spent some time away from their parents are better prepared for preschool in many cases. A child should be used to spending time away from parents and with other family members or adults to make being away from parents easier.

Your child should also be old enough to manage a day of moving from task to task without disrupting other students. Many children experience difficulty moving from task to another, so you may need to practice this skill at home.

Social Skills

Preschool activities involve a lot of time with groups and playing in teams. Class participation is critical for children in school settings. Children in preschool may also report having a better time at preschool when they have friends they can play with during recess.

Children with the proper social skills will not automatically move toward hitting and biting when they are upset with other children. While children are more ruled by emotions at this age, some self-control is critical for children who will be spending time in a classroom.

Routine

Preschool involves heavy reliance on a daily schedule. Children who are used to daily routines will feel comfortable falling in line at school. You can practice building a strong routine at home by moving from one type of task to the next. You might also plan lunches around the time the future preschool plans its lunch.

Excitement

Instead of building anxiety around going to preschool, do your best to promote excitement instead. Take time to meet the child's teacher ahead of time and tour the facilities. Your child can also participate in preparations for going to school, like putting together a backpack or lunchbox.

When your child sees that you are excited about him or her going to school, they will be more likely to feel excitement rather than fear.

Communication

Children who are a good fit for preschool know how to communicate their needs. These young people can express when they need to go to the bathroom or if they are hurt.

At preschool, a child also needs to respond to communication, including following instructions. A child must be able to listen to the teacher and understand the role adults play during instruction periods.

If your child isn't ready for preschool, don't despair. Children can still reap the benefits of preschool even if they attend later. If your child is ready, however, identify programs in your area that would be a good fit for your child. Kids & Company understands every parent's struggle to select the perfect preschool and to determine the best time to send a child to preschool. Call us today to learn more about our preschool programs.

4 Ways Preschool Benefits Your Toddler

Sun, 07 Oct 2018 16:31:12 GMT

Studies indicate that children who attend preschool are more prepared for kindergarten than those who do not. A quality preschool curriculum helps your child build a foundation of social and developmental skills that will them excel in school. Though there is no disputing the benefits of preschool, there is some controversy regarding when your child should start preschool and whether or not preschool benefits toddleraged children.

Most children start preschool between three and four years of age. However, you can find preschool programs for younger children as well. Young children, including toddlers, can benefit from these programs. Read on to understand a few of the benefits that preschool has for your toddler-aged child.

1. Preschool Gives Your Toddler the Ability to Socialize

If your toddler is not used to playing with other children, preschool gives your child a valuable opportunity to socialize and interact with other kids their age. Developmentally, children do not actually start to play with other children until they are approximately three years of age. Prior to this, children engage in a developmentally-appropriate activity known as parallel play.

Parallel play occurs when your child plays alongside another child, and it usually begins the ages of two and three. The children do not play together; rather, their play is independent and they are simply in the same proximity as one another. However, parallel play has a number of advantages for your child.

During parallel play, your child may try to copy the children they are playing with. This can encourage your child to try new activities that can help develop motor skills, like stacking blocks. The nearby children may talk as they play. When your child hears those around them conversing, this gives them the chance to develop their own language skills.

Regular parallel playtime also establishes the foundation of future social skills. Your child will learn how to share and interact with another child. Those these actions seem natural to adults, they develop over time in young children. Preschool offers numerous opportunities for your toddler to engage in parallel play.

2. Preschool Encourages Toddlers to Be More Independent

New activities are frightening for some toddlers, and this includes learning new skills. Preschool provides your toddler with a comfortable setting to practice and improve important life skills. Some of the skills that your toddler may practice during a typical day include going to the restroom independently, serving themselves a snack, cleaning up toys, and putting away their belongings at the start of the school day.

The opportunity to practice these skills and to observe other children completing these activities gives your toddler the boost they need to attempt these activities on their own.

3. Preschool Is Fun

Preschool gives your toddler the option to participate in a number of fun activities, such as story time, playground play, crafts, dress-up, and games. Your child will receive regular mental stimulation and have the opportunity to stay physically active throughout the day. The knowledge that their toddler enjoys their day is comforting for many parents who are unsure about sending them to preschool.

4. Preschool Helps Your Toddler Get Used to a Routine

For children who do not attend preschool, the set routine of a kindergarten day may feel like a shock. By introducing your child to a scheduled day during the toddler years, you give them more time to acclimate to a structured setting. Remember, structure does not always equal work. Your toddler will move between exciting, mentally stimulating activities throughout the day.

However, they will learn that certain activities take place during specific times. Some toddlers struggle with this concept. An early introduction to preschool can help ease them into a regular schedule.

Do you feel like your toddler can benefit from a preschool setting? Contact Kids & Company today to learn more about our toddler program .

Common Questions About Preschoolers, Activity, and Obesity

Mon, 06 Aug 2018 16:36:23 GMT

Obesity is an epidemic that affects one in three American children, according to the American Heart Association. With a growing trend towards a sedentary lifestyle, including a heavier reliance on screens on less time spent outdoors or being active, it's easy to figure out why the number of young children who are overweight or obese is growing.

As a parent, you may wonder what you can do to help your preschooler reduce the risk of obesity. Along with the daily physical activity your child gets during their preschool day, you can help them to eat right and stay active at home.

Not only will regular physical activity help to keep your child at a healthy weight, but it will also improve both their fine (small) and gross (large) motor skills. These abilities are necessary for your child to do everything from buttoning their coat to walking up and down the stairs.

How can you help your preschooler to combat the obesity epidemic? Look at some of the common questions that parents of prekindergarten children have about weight gain and a healthy lifestyle.

Will All Screen Time Contribute to Weight Gain?

Simply stated - no. They key here is to find balance. In general, young children in the U.S. tend to engage in screen time that goes beyond what is considered healthy. Studies have shown that preschool children (between the ages of two and five) spend anywhere from 2.2 to 4.6 hours a day in front of a screen, according to the Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood (CCFC).

A preschooler who spends more time than not sitting in front of a screen is compromising their health. This type of heavy screen viewing is a passive pursuit that can easily lead to weight gain. But a child who spends minimal time in front of a screen isn't likely to see the same problems.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends no more than one hour of high-quality screen viewing for preschoolers ages two to five. If your child exceeds this by several hours, or their screen-time is getting in the way/displacing other less passive activities, balance can help to minimize the risks.

There's no reason to completely cut all screen time - especially when it comes to educational shows/content. By reducing the number of hours of allowed viewing time or adding more physical activity to your child's day, you can create a healthy sense of balance.

How Much Activity Should a Preschooler Get?

Your three-year-old doesn't need to spend their entire day jogging or running in circles just to stay at a healthy weight. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children get at least one hour of physical activity each day.

The type of activity that your child gets can vary by day. Keep in mind, the one-hour recommendation doesn't have to mean that your child gets one continuous hour of physical activity. Your child could play 30 minutes of soccer, run around the playground for 20 minutes, and play tag for another 10 minutes.

What Type of Activity Should a Preschooler Engage In?

Your preschooler can engage in a seemingly endless number of physical activities to stay at a healthy weight. When choosing an activity, make sure that your child enjoys it. Children are more receptive to the types of activities they enjoy. That means if your preschooler loves to dance but doesn't enjoy soccer, a family dance party is preferable.

If you're not entirely sure what to try, easy activities that are age-appropriate for preschoolers include moving like a favorite animal; riding tricycles; rolling or tossing soft or rubber ball; or running, jumping, or hopping through an obstacle course.

Does your preschooler need the added benefit of movement activities during the school day? Contact Kids & Company for more information.

3 Milestones That Mark Your Child's Readiness for Preschool

Fri, 08 Jun 2018 16:40:03 GMT

Early education can set your child up for success later in life. Enrolling your child in a preschool class can be a great way to jump-start your child's education.

Many parents assume that their child will be ready to enter preschool when they hit the age of eligibility, but this isn't true. Children develop at different rates, both physically and emotionally. Sending your child to preschool before he or she is ready could end in disaster.

You should use more than just age to help you determine when your child is mature enough to attend preschool classes. Here are some basic guidelines.

1. Physical Maturity

Preschool can be a fun place for young children to spend time, but participating in preschool classes can also require some physical stamina.

Your child should be able to make it through the day without a long nap before being enrolled in preschool. Children that have not mastered the art of potty training might not be physically ready for preschool either. Your child should also be able to complete basic tasks like washing his or her hands after finger painting or eating lunch without assistance before attending preschool.

Reaching an appropriate level of physical maturity will ensure that your child is prepared to deal with the demands of being in a classroom setting.

2. Independence

In order to fully participate in a preschool program, your child will need to be independent enough to feel comfortable spending time away from you. Children with separation anxiety can experience emotional trauma if they are enrolled in a preschool program too soon.

Gauge your child's level of independence by scheduling time away from your child. Send him or her to a grandparent's house for the weekend or have an aunt or uncle take your child out for the day.

Easing your child into spending time without you can be a simple and effective way to prepare him or her for preschool. An independent child will learn more in a classroom setting and will not serve as a distraction for the teacher or other students.

3. Preschool Is Fun

4. Curiosity

Children who are ready to attend preschool exhibit a healthy curiosity and desire to learn about the world around them. Without this desire to learn, your child may find it difficult to remain engaged in classroom activities.

Preschool is also a great place for children to begin learning important social skills. Younger children are often not ready to begin interacting with others on a regular basis. Wait until your child willingly makes new friends on the playground or joins in group activities without being asked before sending him or her to preschool where they will have to interact throughout the day.

A preschool classroom can provide the stimulation that your child is lacking at home. Arts and crafts projects, story time, and music experiences allow your child the chance to express his or her creativity. If you find that your child is often bored or getting into things around the house, these could be signs that additional stimulation is needed to help your child continue his or her social and intellectual development.

Preschool plays an important role in helping your child gain valuable reading and writing skills in preparation for kindergarten. A preschool classroom can also be a great place for your child to develop the confidence and autonomy needed to succeed in an educational setting. Despite these benefits, sending your child to preschool too soon could have disastrous consequences.

At Kids & Company , we pride ourselves on providing children with a quality preschool education. Call us today for help determining if your child is ready for enrollment in preschool classes.

Tips to Communicate With Your Child's Preschool Teacher

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 16:47:01 GMT

Your child's preschool teacher serves as a partner in their development, and strong communication between them and your family is essential to your child's success. However, it often feels as though there is little time to communicate during the rush of dropping off and picking up your child.

At drop off time, you may worry about interfering with the teacher's other duties by asking to talk. Alternatively, you may not know exactly how to broach a difficult topic such as your child's special needs. Now that your child is in the right preschool classroom use these tips to foster excellent communication with their teacher that supports your child's learning.

1. Provide Some Background

Over the next several months, your child's teacher will spend time getting to know what inspires your child to learn. However, you can streamline this process by giving them some background information from the very beginning.

Let your child's teacher know about your child's favorite colors, foods, and special characters. They can use this information to develop lesson plans that appeal to your child's interests. You may also let them know if there are areas where your child struggles or excels so that they can tailor their teaching strategy to fit these needs.

2. Check the Board

Preschool programs often have bulletin boards or newsletters that teachers use to communicate with parents. These often include calendar, lunch menus, and weekly themes. Find out where to look in your child's early learning center so that you can stay on top of new information such as upcoming special events.

3. Choose the Right Method of Communication

Naturally, you can always ask a quick question during morning drop-off. However, you can address more complicated topics such as your child's progress with a specific skill during a teacher conference.

Parent-teacher conferences can be as simple as an informal phone call when both of you can talk without distraction. They can also be held at your child's learning center where other people such as your child's therapist can be involved. Ask your child's teacher how they think a situation could best be handled, and use that method of communication.

4. Encourage Self-Advocacy

The preschool years are the ideal time to help your child practice speaking up for themselves. Encourage your child to tell their teacher about things such as allergies or if another child upsets them. While you may stay nearby to lend a helping hand, having your child practice communicating their needs teaches valuable skills in self-advocacy.

5. Share Major Life Changes

Things that happen at home affect your child's behavior and willingness to learn at preschool. If you are comfortable talking about it, then share major news with your child's teacher. For example, you may want to let them know if your child recently moved or has experienced a loss in the family.

Your child's teacher can use this type of information to support your child's emotional needs. For instance, they could read a book together about what to expect when moving to a new house. Alternatively, they can watch for signs that your child is struggling with adjusting to a change so that they can keep you informed.

6. Follow Up on Action Plans

During a conference or brief conversation in the classroom, you and your child's teacher may agree on an action plan. For example, they may offer to plan special activities at preschool to help refine your child's math skills. Let your child's teacher notice the changes that you see at home regarding the action plan so that they know what works.

At Kids & Company, we aim to foster strong relationships between parents and our staff. Contact us today to explore the benefits that our preschool classrooms offer for our youngest learners.

Tips for Protecting Your Preschooler's Health During Flu Season

Wed, 07 Feb 2018 16:51:56 GMT

Flu season fills many parents with dread each year. It can seem inevitable that all the little ones in class will get it at some point. However, there are things you can do to decrease the odds of your children contracting the flu this year. Consider and follow these tips to protect the health of your preschoolers throughout flu season and beyond.

Talk to Your Children's Pediatrician About the Flu Shot

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that children are more likely to get the flu than adults. In fact, millions of kids get the flu each year. Sadly, over 100 children died from the flu during the 2016-2017 flu season. Both the CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend influenza immunization for all children over the age of six months.

When kids under the age of eight receive the flu shot for the first time, they may need to be given two doses of it at separate times. The American Academy of Pediatrics cautions that it's better to get children immunized as early as possible, especially since the second vaccine will be administered about a month after the first one.

Emphasize the Importance of Covering One's Mouth

When kids are sick, they can spread germs several feet when they cough and sneeze. To protect family members when your little ones are home and classmates when they're at preschool, teach them to cover their mouth every single time they cough and sneeze. When they can, teach them to cough and sneeze into a tissue.

Help Build Your Children's Immunity Through Good Nutrition

A balanced diet that's rich in fresh fruits and vegetables can help optimize your kids' immune system. Teach your kids to enjoy a rainbow of foods. You may encourage them to snack on their favorite fruits and vegetables after school. Prepare nutrient-rich carrots, apples, kale, oranges, celery, berries, tomatoes, and avocados for them regularly.

Teach Kids the Importance of Handwashing

One of the best ways to protect your kids from the flu is teaching them to frequently wash their hands. Handwashing can prevent a variety of illnesses, including the flu. Influenza can spread when people touch something in a room after touching their mouths or noses.

Talk to your kids about washing their hands before leaving preschool for the day. You should also teach them to wash their hands after they sneeze, cough, or touch their mouth and nose when they're sick. Also teach kids to wash their hands before eating, after playing with friends, and frequently throughout the day.

Praise Kids for Establishing Good Habits

Maintaining your kids' health during flu season requires their full participation. When you notice your children following healthy habits you've taught, heap praise on them. This kind of positive reinforcement can be very effective, and it can make you and your kids feel great. Be specific with your praise, reinforcing how they're being smart to take such good care of themselves.

Keep Your Kids Away From Their Sick Peers

When one of your kids gets the flu, keep your other children away from the sick one. It's also important to keep a little one with the flu home from preschool. Avoid close contact with people who are suffering from the flu. If there are any common areas shared with someone with the flu, clean the area before touching items in that room.

Finally, protecting your kids' health is complicated. It's impossible to prevent all illnesses. However, by teaching your kids optimal habits to protect their health, you can help them avoid preventable diseases. Children can enjoy all the benefits of a school environment. At Kids & Company , we're happy to help students thrive throughout flu season and all throughout the year.

Technology Use in Preschool Programs

Mon, 11 Dec 2017 16:55:19 GMT

You already know that your preschooler is learning and growing every day. From building basic math skills to beginning to read and write, the early childhood classroom is the seat of development for your young child. In addition to science, social studies and art, modern curriculum also includes technology.

Even though your child is under the age of five, that does not mean they can't get a jump-start on technology use. Obviously, classroom tech-time doesn't look the same as it does for you. Your preschooler isn't answering slews of emails, and they're not binge-watching their favorite show on a tablet.

So what does technology use look like in the preschool classroom? Take a look at how computers, media and other technological devices function in preschool programs.

Hands-On and Active

There are more than a few ways to use technology, and it's not all positive. Passive technology use won't help your child learn or develop new skills. Passive use includes what many people think of when they hear the words "screen time." Sitting in front of a laptop, blankly staring at flashing images with eyes that are glazing over is often the mental picture that parents get when they think of technology use and their children - but this isn't always the case.

How can children get active while using computers and other technology? Teachers need to create hands-on learning experiences. These are active lessons and explorations that allow the young child to use the technology in a way that is engaging. This type of interactive use might include painting a digital picture on the computer or playing a math matching game on a tablet.

Intentional Use

Like other activities and lessons in the classroom, early childhood teachers should use technology intentionally. What does this mean? To start with, teachers should have a purpose for the children's tech-time activities. Instead of turning on the TV or letting the children watch a movie on a laptop, the teacher creates meaningful experiences that allow the child to interact with technology in goal-oriented ways.

Intentional technology use also requires the teacher to create learning goals and objectives. This means that the educator creates lesson/activity plans for tech-time that look like those for other content areas, such as math and science.

Curriculum Connections

Understanding how to use technology is absolutely essential for children who will eventually enter into a tech-filled workplace and world. However, technology doesn't have to function as a stand-alone lesson.

Preschool teachers may use computers, tablets and other devices to teach young children about technology and the basics of its use - like how to turn on a computer, click on what you want to see and use the internet for research. However, they can also use tech-time activities as a way to connect to other parts of the pre-K curriculum.

The preschool teacher can use computer software, the internet and mobile apps to help their young students learn about an array of different concepts. These concepts can include anything from number identification and simple addition to reading and writing letters. Along with the basics, computers can help children to explore science concepts, learn about history and even create art.

Time Limits

Keep in mind, your child's preschool day isn't filled with technology use. There's a time and a place for this type of activity. It's likely that the teacher will create specific times for computer and tablet use. This may mean that the computer is open during a certain time in the morning or that the children get regularly scheduled turns using it.

Are you looking for a new preschool program that can help your young child to learn and develop? Kids & Company can help.

Preschoolers and Independence: How to Help Your Child at Home

Wed, 11 Oct 2017 16:59:25 GMT

Your preschooler is completely self-sufficient, in-control and an A+ listener—at school that is. Even though the teacher raves about your little learner's ability to follow directions, clean up after playtime and do things (such as putting on her own jacket) without adult help, you just aren't seeing those skills at home. What is going on?

Don't stress. This is completely normal. The seemingly Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde routine of behaving one way at preschool and another way at home is common and typically isn't anything to worry about. Of course, that doesn't mean you won't daydream about your child acting like her school-self when she's around you.

How can you help your preschooler to act independently, cooperate with you (or siblings) and behave in more acceptable ways at home? Take a look at these tips for getting your child to show off some of that "school-time" behavior when she's around you.

Take a Step Back

It's tempting to always "do" for your child. You want the best for her, and when you see your preschooler struggle, it kind of breaks your heart. Whether she can't seem to get her shoes on or she keeps spilling the box of blocks she's trying to clean up, you feel that parental need to step in and take over. Wait just a moment here.

Why can your child do these everyday activities at school but can't seem to get the hang of them at home? It's likely that her teacher isn't following her around and taking over each and every task. When the teacher steps back and lets the class of kids try to act independently (whenever it's age and developmentally appropriate), they step up. After all, they have no other option.

When you take over a task, you are giving your child another option. And, she knows it. No one is saying that your child needs to be 100% independent. She's only in preschool. But with tasks that she is capable of mastering, you can feel comfortable stepping back and letting her take over. These may include getting dressed, using the bathroom, putting away toys and feeding herself (eating, not the actual food prep).

Encourage Problem Solving

Your preschooler is a tornado in the playroom. Her toys are everywhere, and the bins that you stash them in are all over the floor. When you ask her to clean up before eating dinner, she just stares at the mess. Then she walks away. She's confused about what to do. There are so many toys and so many bins. Plus, those bins have to fit back on the shelves in some way. At school, she'd spend some time problem-solving and figure out what to do. She certainly wouldn't leave the scene and expect someone else to take care of it.

This, and other similar scenarios, is a learning opportunity. Help your child to problem-solve. This doesn't mean that you stand over her and dictate what to do next. Instead, use prompts to help her think about how she can clean up the mess. For this scene, the prompts may sound like, "Which toys do you think will fit in the smaller bins?" or "How many bins do you think can fit on the bottom shelf?"

Curriculum Connections

Praise the Positive

This is a tricky one. Obviously, praise is a good thing. Your child responds well to it, and it's an easy way to boost her confidence. But you don't want to pile on general praise 24-7. Limit praise to the situations when your child actually deserves it. Along with that, make sure that praise is specific. It can also include encouragement when it comes to adding on to or continuing the behavior.

For example, if she's resisting eating any of the healthy foods you serve for dinner, you don't have to throw a praise party just because she eats one green bean or squeal, "Great job!" over and over again. Instead, try something such as, "I'm proud of you for trying a new food. Let's keep going and try more."

If your child needs some extra encouragement learning to act independently or cooperate with, the school setting can help. Learn more about preschool and what it can do for your child, by calling Kids & Company .

Prepare Your Preschoolers for a Successful Year With These Tips

Thu, 10 Aug 2017 18:08:44 GMT

Preschool is your child's first introduction into the educational environment that they'll spend most of their childhood in. And while their preschool years aren't going to make or break your child's future, they are pretty important, and you want to get your child's schooling off on the right foot.

However, if this is your first child to go to preschool, it can be hard to know how you can help ensure that things go smoothly for your child. Take a look at some tips that can help your preschooler get off to the best possible start.

Have a Plan for Transitions

Preschool may be your child's first experience with a structured environment. Preschool classrooms may not look structured compared to the typical classrooms for older children, but there are routines and well-planned activities every day. However, it can be hard for small children just learning the routine to understand why they need to stop one activity and move onto the next.

Because transitioning from one event to the next can be difficult for small children, teachers have all kinds of strategies they use to help make the transitions easy and understandable for kids. However, some of the biggest transitions in your preschooler's day are the ones that you'll be there for: making sure they move from eating breakfast to getting dressed on time, getting out the door, dropping them off at the school and picking them at the end of the day.

You can use some of the same transition strategies that teachers use to help make these new routines easier on your kids. For example, try giving your child a five-minute warning that breakfast will be ending and they will need to go get dressed. Setting the kitchen timer can help. Or give your child a cue that a new activity is coming—for example, designate a toy that they only play with in the car. Then when it's time to go to school, let them know that they're going to play with that toy. They'll learn to associate it with the ride to school.

Get Ready for Repetition

Small children learn by repetition. You can reinforce the lessons they learn in school by using repetition at home to help them practice what they've learned. For example, if they're learning about the color red in school, find ways to incorporate red into your activities at home, too. Point out fire trucks, serve apples at snack time and choose red clothes for school.

Expect to spend time re-reading favorite books or singing the songs that your child learns in school over and over again. It may seem redundant to you, but it's important for your child's development. Find ways to challenge your child while they repeat these activities. For example, have them draw a picture about the book they read or add some dance steps to this week's new song.

Prioritize Parent/Teacher Communication

Communicating with your child's preschool teacher is vital. Parental involvement is closely tied to student success, even at the preschool level.

Make time to talk your child's teacher when it's convenient for both of you. If drop-off and pickup times are rushed, see if you can communicate via email or phone on a regular basis. Volunteer to help out in the classroom, and come to parent events as often as you can.

Make sure to bring up concerns when you have them. If you're worried about something, don't wait to see if it gets better or worse—the sooner it's addressed, the better the chance for a positive outcome. Don't be afraid to ask your child's teacher questions. Your preschooler is spending a large chunk of their waking hours at school, and it's important that you know what happens, how your child behaves and how they're progressing while they're in class.

Your child's preschool years are important for their development. A great preschool will help you work with your child and their teacher to ensure that your child gets the most out of their preschool experience.

How Do You Choose the Right Preschool Program for Your Child?

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 18:12:29 GMT

Eleven million children. That's the number of kids under age five who go to child care every week, according to the national organization Child Care Aware of America . If your preschooler is about to join the many, choosing the right program for your family can seem like a major challenge. That doesn't mean you can't simplify your search. Read on to find out what you need to look for in a quality preschool program and how daycare can help your little learner to succeed.

Excellent Educator Qualifications

Teaching a 3, 4 or 5-year-old isn't easy. It takes a full understanding of child development, self-awareness and a level of understanding that comes from years of education and experience. Keep in mind, state licensed programs must meet the minimum staff qualification standards. In North Carolina, lead teachers must be at least 18 years old and have a North Carolina Early Childhood Credential or a higher degree.

Even though the state sets the minimum, the more education and professional experience the pre-k teacher has, the better. What kinds of qualifications should you really look for? First, there's education. Again, your child's teacher needs to know about child development principles. Along with that, the teacher should understand effective discipline practices, how to create lesson plans and activities that are in-line with your child's age and developmental level, cultural differences in children and education, and what current research says about early education.

Not only does your child's teacher need an educational background in teaching and child development, but they also need some sort of experience. This may come from years of working with preschoolers, college or graduate-level internships or student teaching.

The Environment

When you walk into the child care center what do you see? It's this environment that makes or breaks your kid's experience. Look for a setting that stimulates the senses, provides plenty of opportunities for learning and is set up in a completely child-friendly way.

If you're not entirely sure what this means, look around at the playthings, the classroom set-up and what's on the walls. Play and learning items should be easily accessible for the children. But, unsafe items (such as medications or cleaning products) should be completely out of reach and locked securely away. The classroom should encourage exploration and feel inviting. This might mean that there are learning centers stocked with materials or low open shelves with books and toys on them.

Along with the toys, furniture and general set-up, the room should include plenty of print. Some teachers label bins, shelves or individual areas (such as "Reading" or "Art"). You should also see posters and artwork (both copies of real works as well as the kids' art) on the walls .

The Curriculum

The preschool curriculum should include an array of areas. The North Carolina licensing requirements demand that four- and five-star programs use an approved curriculum.

In general, a quality preschool program's curriculum includes early literacy (reading and writing), math, science, social studies, the arts (visual art, dance/creative movement, music and drama) and gross motor/physical activities.

A quality program's curriculum is responsive to the child's needs, fits the developmental level and helps the child to reach beyond what they currently know or can do. The school or individual classroom teachers should make the lessons and activities available to the parents.

Your Picks

Every child is different. That means your list of must-haves for a preschool program may not look identical to another parent's list. Yes, you can put teacher qualifications, the environment and the curriculum on your list. Of course, that's not all.

You may have a specific educational philosophy you're looking for in a pre-k program, or you may only want to explore child care centers that offer plenty of arts experiences. Then there are the logistical issues. You may need a center that offers extended care, has early hours, is close to your home, is close to your job or has an after-school program that your child can continue after they've "graduated" from preschool.

If you are interested in learning more about a preschool program for your child, call Kids and Company at 910-799-3556 .

Tips on Teaching Your Child to Read

Tue, 21 Feb 2017 18:15:39 GMT

There are many studies on early literacy in children. Some advocate that children as young as 2 can learn to read, while others state that reading is a process that is established later in child development. Regardless of the study, all agree that setting up good reading habits early sets the stage for a lifelong commitment to reading.

Foster a Love of Reading

Children mimic the actions of the older people most present in their lives. Therefore, it is important for children to see those around them reading. In addition, reading to children of any age also increases the likelihood that children will read more as adults.

Find Teachable Moments

Early child literacy is more than reading books. There are everyday instances where children can be taught to relate words to the world around them. Whether it’s riding in the car and pointing out traffic signs or labeling objects in the home, these small moments help build comprehension .

Read a Variety of Texts

Current common core standards call for not only comprehension of fictionalized texts but also of biographies and real life events. Reading several types of developmentally appropriate texts helps broaden your child’s reading skills and increases their empathy.

For more on teaching your child to read, call Kids and Company at 910-799-3556 .

Reasons to Enroll Your Child in After-School Programs

Mon, 26 Dec 2016 18:18:30 GMT

Several schools and community organizations offer some form of after-school kids programs . This is not surprising, considering the many benefits of regular attendance.

Improved Performance in School

Many after-school programs offer homework help to students, increasing their understanding of the subjects they are learning and helping them to keep up in the classroom. Being around peers and interacting with adults can also help children to form social skills and learn respectful behavior, which will be useful as they move through their educational years.

Health Benefits

These programs also often include healthy snacks and physical activities, along with education, on staying healthy. Because a variety of activities are available, children are able to find something they are interested in and nurture this passion.

A Safe Place to Spend Time

One major appeal of after-school kids programs is that they offer a safe, supervised environment for children to socialize, learn and explore other interests. For parents who work long hours or are otherwise unable to be home right after school, it is a relief knowing their child is being looked after.

After-school programs can help children to learn and grow into smart and healthy individuals. If you are interested in learning more about an after-school program for your child, call Kids and Company at 910-799-3556 .

Five Benefits of Child Care Programs

Thu, 28 Jul 2016 18:22:12 GMT

If you’re getting ready to send your little one off to child care for the first time, you may be feeling some anxiety about whether or not you’re making the right choice. But there are some surprising benefits to enrolling your child in a child care program .

Your Child Builds up Immunity

Studies have shown that children who were enrolled in child care from a young age experienced less infections and illness when they became school aged than those who stayed at home.

They Learn Social Cues

A major benefit of sending your young ones to child care is that they’re given the opportunity to socialize and learn social cues like sharing, working with others and resolving conflict.

It Prepares Them for School

Child care exposes children to early literacy and basic math skills that are crucial to success in school. The earlier children are introduced to reading and math, they higher their chances of academic success later on.

It Teaches Independence

Kids in child care are taught to independent activities like tying their shoes, brushing their teeth and dressing themselves.

Child Care Teaches Routine

Routine is a part of life and the earlier children are taught to follow routine, the easier the transition to school and later on, the workplace.

These five benefits of child care programs should put your mind at ease next time you drop your little one off at day care. Remember, you’re a good parent and you’re doing what’s best for your child. To learn more about the benefits of child care, visit Kids & Company in Wilmington.

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3 Major Benefits of Outdoor Play for Preschoolers

Physical Fitness

Social and Emotional Development

Exploration and Creative Thinking

Your Preschooler's Not a Morning Person? Prevent School Lateness

1. Do as Much as Possible the Night Before

2. Follow a Routine

3. Give Choices

4. Practice

5. Allow Them to Earn Time for a Preferred Activity

6. Simplify Breakfast

7. Make Sure They Sleep Enough

Want Info About Making Preschool Work? Talk to the Experts

Dealing With Separation Anxiety in Children

At-Home Preparations

At the Child Care Center

Is Your Child Ready for Preschool?

Physical Independence

Emotional Independence

Social Skills

Routine

Excitement

Communication

4 Ways Preschool Benefits Your Toddler

1. Preschool Gives Your Toddler the Ability to Socialize

2. Preschool Encourages Toddlers to Be More Independent

3. Preschool Is Fun

4. Preschool Helps Your Toddler Get Used to a Routine

Common Questions About Preschoolers, Activity, and Obesity

3 Milestones That Mark Your Child's Readiness for Preschool

1. Physical Maturity

2. Independence

3. Preschool Is Fun

4. Curiosity

Tips to Communicate With Your Child's Preschool Teacher

1. Provide Some Background

2. Check the Board

3. Choose the Right Method of Communication

4. Encourage Self-Advocacy

5. Share Major Life Changes

6. Follow Up on Action Plans

Tips for Protecting Your Preschooler's Health During Flu Season

Talk to Your Children's Pediatrician About the Flu Shot

Emphasize the Importance of Covering One's Mouth

Help Build Your Children's Immunity Through Good Nutrition

Teach Kids the Importance of Handwashing

Praise Kids for Establishing Good Habits

Keep Your Kids Away From Their Sick Peers

Technology Use in Preschool Programs

Hands-On and Active ﻿

Intentional Use

Curriculum Connections ﻿

Time Limits

Preschoolers and Independence: How to Help Your Child at Home

Take a Step Back

Encourage Problem Solving

Curriculum Connections ﻿

Praise the Positive

Prepare Your Preschoolers for a Successful Year With These Tips

Have a Plan for Transitions ﻿

Get Ready for Repetition

Prioritize Parent/Teacher Communication ﻿

How Do You Choose the Right Preschool Program for Your Child?

Excellent Educator Qualifications

The Environment

The Curriculum

Your Picks

Tips on Teaching Your Child to Read

Foster a Love of Reading

Find Teachable Moments

Read a Variety of Texts

Reasons to Enroll Your Child in After-School Programs

Improved Performance in School

Health Benefits

A Safe Place to Spend Time

Five Benefits of Child Care Programs

Your Child Builds up Immunity

They Learn Social Cues

It Prepares Them for School

Hands-On and Active

Curriculum Connections

Curriculum Connections

Have a Plan for Transitions

Prioritize Parent/Teacher Communication