blog
Curating environments for early childhood
Many play-based approaches, most prominently the Reggio Emilia inspired approach, honor the environment as a major player in children’s early learning and development. Often referred to as the child’s “third teacher” (after their parents and classroom educators),...
The benefits of outdoor play on childhood stress
Childhood stress and trauma is a big topic of reflection for caregivers and parents alike as we live through waves of pandemic life, and adjust to the changes and challenges it brings. Being a part of a nature-based nursery school is a source of pride for me because I...
To Share or Not to Share
Humans are social creatures, and learning how to interact and connect with others is possibly the most important part of a child’s development. One of the functions of early-years education is to provide a safe and supportive environment for learning and practicing...
The Holiday Season and Child-Led Learning
The weather has gotten cooler, the leaves are falling, and the holiday season is just around the corner. In most preschools, this is the cue to get out the orange and brown art materials to create a “handprint” Thanksgiving turkey, complete with feathers (often glued...
Employment shortage – the great resignation
Even before COVID-19, ensuring that nurseries and preschools were fully-staffed was a complex matter. Now, in the wake of the pandemic, the problem has developed into a full-blown crisis throughout the country. Overall, almost a third of early-years staff, about...
Happy New Year – reflections on 2020.
We did it! We’re right on the brink of this ruthless year! Questions without answers still linger for all of us but there is finally hope; Vaccines are being distributed, a new cabinet is being stacked with hardworking and honest professionals, and (although late and...
How to talk about death with young children.
Lets talk about death… Today, in the United States, many people of Mexican heritage will be celebrating Dia De los Muertos (Day of the Dead). I’m not going to say too much about it because I’m English so it’s not my story to tell. However, one of the things I really...
Halloween: 5 fun things to do at home!
We might not be able to go Trick or Treating but there's lots of fun to be had at home! Its been a strange year and our kids have had to give up so much of what they love in 2020. Halloween is just around the corner and although our world looks very different to how...
Kids’ Holidays are for Sharing, not Surrender
The holidays can be a truly magical time for parents of small children. It’s a joy to experience the wonder of the celebration through their eyes, as they experience the brilliant decorations, festive music, delicious foods, and the special moments you and your family...
the joy of art
Turkey handprints, glittery paper Christmas ornaments, and cut-outs of Santa are typical staples of the holiday season. Pinterest boards dedicated to pre-fabbed crafting experiences are filling up and fridges transform into make-shift galleries for our little one’s...