Latest Blog & News
How can child care providers support early self-help skills in toddlers?
07/16/2026Supporting early self-help skills helps toddlers build confidence, independence, coordination, and a stronger sense of belonging in the classroom. This guide gives child care providers and directors practical, classroom-ready strategies for teaching dressing, handwashing, feeding, toileting, cleanup... How can child care providers support early self-help skills in toddlers?
When Play Gets Messy: Why Does the Best Learning Often Look Like Chaos?
07/22/2026Have you ever worried that paint-splattered smocks and sand on the floor mean kids aren’t learning? That apparent chaos is often where the deepest learning happens: children test ideas, manage feelings, and build skills through open-ended exploration. If you want practical ways to supp... When Play Gets Messy: Why Does the Best Learning Often Look Like Chaos?
How can I create engaging learning centers in my classroom?
05/12/2026As a fellow child care provider, you know that well-planned learning centers help children choose, explore, and grow. This article gives simple, practical steps to plan, set up, and run centers that spark curiosity and meet learning goals. You’ll find checklists, tips on materials, how to su... How can I create engaging learning centers in my classroom?
Daycare Activity Ideas for Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers
06/24/2026Working in child care means planning simple, safe activities that help little children grow. This article gives quick, practical ideas for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. You can use these right away with your team. Links point to ready lesson plans and safety guidance from ChildCareEd and othe... Daycare Activity Ideas for Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers
Building Excitement: Back-to-School Traditions for Little Learners
08/08/2024Building Excitement: Back-to-School Traditions for Little Learners The transition back to school can be especially challenging for young children, who may be experiencing the classroom setting for the first time or returning after a long summer break. Establishing meaningful traditions can help a... Building Excitement: Back-to-School Traditions for Little Learners
Maryland Tax-Free Week: August 11-17, 2024 is a great opportunity to save on essential back-to-school supplies
08/15/2024This time of year can often bring financial stress as #parents strive to equip their children with the necessary clothing and supplies for the academic journey ahead. However, Maryland offers a beacon of hope in the form of its annual sales tax holiday, a strategic opportunity for families t... Maryland Tax-Free Week: August 11-17, 2024 is a great opportunity to save on essential back-to-school supplies
Having a Heart-to-Heart
04/13/2021Communication in early childhood settings includes collaborating with colleagues, conferring with administrators and providers, exchanging information with parents and guardians, and building relationships with families. Communication combines language, tone, intent, and—when in person—b... Having a Heart-to-Heart
Building a Back-to-School Routine: Balancing Homework, Extracurriculars, and Family Time
08/26/2024This time of year is often marked by a mix of excitement and anxiety as #students prepare to go back to school. The challenge lies not only in adjusting to new schedules but also in finding a harmonious balance between #homework, extracurricular activities, and quality family time. Ch... Building a Back-to-School Routine: Balancing Homework, Extracurriculars, and Family Time
How Can I Bring the World Cup into a Multicultural Preschool Classroom in New York?
06/17/2026Many preschool classrooms in New York will feel the buzz of the World Cup — flags, songs, and family stories. You can use that excitement to teach kindness, geography, and pride without turning culture into a costume. This short guide gives practical, respectful activities you can start tomorr... How Can I Bring the World Cup into a Multicultural Preschool Classroom in New York?
California Home Daycare Licensing Standards
06/18/2026Opening or running a home daycare in #California means following clear rules that keep children safe and your program legal. This short guide explains the big ideas you need as a provider or director: what the rules say, how to apply, what trainings and checks you must have, and simple daily systems... California Home Daycare Licensing Standards
