How can educators foster independence in young children while keeping them safe and supported? Building independence helps children develop self-esteem and agency. It supports executive function, resilience, communication, and curiosity. This article synthesizes classroom strategies and family partn... Building Independence
Encouraging independence and responsibility is central to a strong early learning program. This article gives child care providers and directors practical, evidence-informed strategies for creating routines, interactions, and accessible environments where children can make choices, complete meaningf... How can childcare programs encourage independence and responsibility in young children?
Children learn language by listening to others talk and watching how people interact. They observe gestures, facial expressions, and other nonverbal cues and learn new words as they listen to the adults around speak. This article summarizes evidence-based classroom practices and everyday routines th... Promoting Language Development
I’m Hungry, I’m Bored We all feel this way sometimes, even children! Separation anxiety, lack of sleep, poor nutrition, illness, and a variety of other factors can affect a child’s mood from day to day. When childcare providers are able to determine the needs of... I’m Hungry, I’m Bored
Teaching kindness and friendship is one of the most meaningful ways child care providers can support children’s development. These skills help children form secure relationships, communicate their needs, cooperate with peers, resolve disagreements, and contribute to a caring classroom communit... How can we teach kindness and friendship in our classroom?
Big feelings happen every day in your room. This short guide helps child care providers and directors notice feelings, calm a child in the moment, and teach skills that stick. Use the quick steps, scripts, and ideas here with your team. For deeper tools and printable resources, see Big feelings: Tea... How can child care teams help children manage big feelings?
Every child care program needs a clear discipline philosophy. A philosophy is a short set of beliefs that guides what adults do every day. This article helps directors and teachers choose a caring plan to teach good behavior. You will find simple steps, short lists, and links to helpful resources to... Child Care Discipline Philosophy: Supporting Positive Behavior
Teaching young learners to wait, share, and take turns is one of the highest‑leverage skills you can teach in early childhood settings. These behaviors support safe play, stronger peer relationships, and productive classroom routines. In this article you will find concise, classroom‑ready strate... How can we effectively teach children to wait, share, and take turns?
National Grandparents Day In 1978, President Jimmy Carter declared the first Sunday after Labor Day to be National Grandparents Day. Each year a presidential proclamation recognizes the day. Child care programs use the observance to strengthen family engagement and intergenerational learning. To p... National Grandparents Day
Bringing young children and older adults together is simple and powerful. This article helps child care providers and directors plan short, safe, and meaningful visits so your #preschoolers and #seniors can learn from each other. You will find easy activity ideas, planning steps, safety tips, and wa... Connecting Generations: Activities for Preschoolers and Seniors