Latest Blog & News in English
Why Does Old‑School Play (Blocks, Mud, Cardboard) Still Win?
07/16/2026Old-school materials—wooden blocks, mud and water, loose natural items, and large cardboard boxes—may look simple, but they provide exceptionally rich opportunities for learning. Unlike many single-purpose toys, these open-ended materials allow children to decide what to build, create, i... Why Does Old‑School Play (Blocks, Mud, Cardboard) Still Win?
How do we build developmentally appropriate programs for young children?
06/01/2026Building a program that fits young children means planning with care, kindness, and simple steps. This short guide helps child care providers and directors set up warm, strong programs. You will find clear actions to take in your #children's day, links to helpful ChildCareEd tools, and trusted res... How do we build developmentally appropriate programs for young children?
Can technology help preschool classrooms teach better?
07/08/2026Young children are growing up surrounded by screens and smart toys. Child care leaders and teachers ask: can we use technology well in our preschool rooms to support learning, not replace play? This article gives practical, friendly answers for directors and providers. You will find clear benefits... Can technology help preschool classrooms teach better?
How can I open or expand a child care program in Michigan with Caring for MI Future funding?
06/09/2026If you want to open or grow a child care program in Michigan using Caring for MI Future funds, this guide helps you plan step by step. You will learn how to find money, meet state rules, buy or fix a building, hire and train staff, and set up safe outdoor play. This article is for child care directo... How can I open or expand a child care program in Michigan with Caring for MI Future funding?
How can child care programs support cognitive development through problem-solving activities?
07/15/2026Young children strengthen cognitive skills each time they work through a meaningful challenge—balancing a block tower, fitting puzzle pieces together, negotiating roles during dramatic play, predicting what will happen in a science activity, or determining how many plates are needed at snack. ... How can child care programs support cognitive development through problem-solving activities?
Preschool Lesson Plans for Learning, Creativity, and Growth
06/24/2026Good lesson plans help your team create calm, playful days where children learn, make friends, and try new things. This article gives easy steps, ready ideas, and links to helpful templates so you can plan with confidence. Use short goals, simple materials, and routines that let kids explore safely.... Preschool Lesson Plans for Learning, Creativity, and Growth
Crayon Activities for Preschoolers: Color, Creativity, and Fine Motor Skills
06/10/2026Crayon time is an easy, low-cost way to help children learn. In this article you will find simple ideas you can use today to build #crayons skills, #creativity, #finemotor control, #color recognition, and joyful #play in your classroom. The tips are written for child care providers and directors who... Crayon Activities for Preschoolers: Color, Creativity, and Fine Motor Skills
Can doodling and drawing build fine motor skills and creativity?
07/15/2026Young children often enter the classroom eager to scribble, doodle, and experiment with making marks. When educators guide these experiences intentionally, everyday #doodling and #drawing can strengthen hand muscles, improve hand-eye coordination, refine #finemotor control, and encourage imaginative... Can doodling and drawing build fine motor skills and creativity?
Ah-Choo!
01/19/2021Every early childhood educator asks themselves these questions when working with children; the role in the classroom is not solely pedagogical but also clinical and supervisory. Educators must recognize early signs of contagion, communicate with families, and implement program policies that ... Ah-Choo!
Listening and Communicating
12/01/2022Listening is one of the most important professional competencies for child care practitioners; the degree to which staff attends, reflects, and responds shapes relationships, learning opportunities, and social-emotional development. To deepen practice, consider beginning with two short courses: Open... Listening and Communicating
