What are the Best Christmas Stories to Read at Bedtime?

Posted on November 25, 2023November 26, 2023 by schoolhouse

The tradition of reading Christmas stories is a magical part of the festive season, creating special bedtime moments for children. However, choosing the right story is key! It sparks the imagination and captures the true Christmas spirit, making every night leading up to the big day a memorable one.

Here are our favourite Christmas stories to read at bedtime:

1. A Christmas Carol

Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” features Ebenezer Scrooge, a man who dislikes Christmas. Haunted by ghosts showing his life’s impact, he realises his meanness. On Christmas, he awakens kinder, embracing the Christmas spirit of generosity. Read the full story here.

2. The Night Before Christmas

The Night Before Christmas by Clement Clarke Moore is a cherished Christmas poem. It brings to life the magical night when Santa visits, with his reindeer and a sack of toys. As children sleep and stockings hang ready, the poem shares the excitement and joy of Christmas Eve, ideal for a festive bedtime story.

3. The Grinch Who Stole Christmas

The story of the Grinch is one of a man who tries to ruin Christmas for Whoville by taking all the decorations and gifts. Yet, despite having nothing, the town’s joyous spirit surprises him. He realises Christmas joy comes from togetherness, not things, leading to a change of heart and a happy ending. Read The Grinch Who Stole Christmas here.

4. The Polar Express

Chris Van Allsburg’s “The Polar Express” is about a boy’s magical train journey to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. It’s a tale of adventure and belief, culminating in a special bell from Santa that rings for true believers. Read the full magical story here.

5. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Robert L. May’s story of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” tells the tale of Rudolph, a reindeer who is teased for his glowing red nose. However, he soon becomes a hero when he guides Santa’s sleigh on a foggy Christmas Eve, proving that being different is valuable.

6. The Legend of the Poinsettia

“The Legend of the Poinsettia” is a Mexican tale where a girl’s humble roadside weeds transform into red poinsettias at a nativity, symbolising the true spirit of heartfelt giving at Christmas. You can read this story here.

7. The Jolly Christmas Postman

“The Jolly Christmas Postman” weaves a festive tale of a postman delivering letters to fairy-tale characters. It’s an interactive adventure filled with letters and puzzles for children to explore online, adding fun to the holiday season as they follow the postman’s Christmas journey. Listen to the full story here.

8. The Elves and the Shoemaker

It is a festive tale of a struggling shoemaker who becomes prosperous with the help of mysterious elves crafting shoes overnight. It’s a story that celebrates kindness and the joy of giving back, perfect for feeling the Christmas spirit. Read it here.

Reading Christmas stories at bedtime is a magical tradition that brings families together during the festive season. It’s a time for parents and children to share in the spirit of Christmas through tales that spark the imagination and warm the heart. By creating your own tradition with these timeless stories, you’re not just telling tales but making memories that will last a lifetime.

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

16 Money-saving Tips For Families

Posted on November 11, 2023November 26, 2023 by schoolhouse

Let’s face it: keeping our family finances afloat can sometimes feel like we’re trying to fill a leaky bucket. Here are our top money-saving tips for families to help save those pennies:

1. Slash Your Food Bills

Plan your meals around what’s on sale and snag those deals with coupon apps. Set a cash budget for your supermarket runs to keep a tight rein on spending.

2. Keep Your Festivities Frugal

Making homemade decorations is fun for the whole family while keeping the costs low, a great money-saving tip for families.

3. Embrace Secondhand Options

Scoop up pre-loved clothes and toys, and sell what you no longer use.

4. Enjoy Low-Cost Entertainment

Opt for free or inexpensive entertainment such as local parks, libraries, and community events.

5. Trim Your Travel Expenses

A great money-saving tip for families is to take advantage of public transport. Remember, with offers like Kids Go Free by Transport for Wales, your little ones can journey at no extra cost. Whenever you can, cycle or walk too!

6. Master The Art of Smart Shopping

Always hunt for discounts, sales, and cashback opportunities to ensure you never fork out the full price.

7. Boost your home’s energy efficiency

Invest in energy-saving appliances and adopt minor tweaks that shrink utility bills. These can lead to significant savings over time.

8. Budget-Friendly Holidays

Where possible, plan holidays during off-peak periods and scout out deals on stays and fun activities. These money-saving tips for families make it possible to create cherished memories without the hefty price tag.

9. Set up an Automatic Savings Plan

This is a straightforward money-saving tip for families that will steadily build an emergency fund or nest egg for future aspirations.

10. Learn for free

Use free online resources such as those available on bbc.co.uk and tap into the wealth of knowledge at public libraries to bolster your children’s education.

11. Embrace DIY and Home Maintenance

You can learn these skills quite easily if you need to make some basic home repairs or maintenance. There are plenty of instructional videos online, which means you can cut out the costly service fees!

12. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Cut down on waste by using reusable containers instead of disposable ones, mend clothes rather than buying new, and recycle electronics.

13. Streamline Your Kitchen Routine With Meal Planning

Cooking in batches and freezing meals is a top money-saving tip for families. It also curbs the urge to splurge on takeaways.

14. Review and Reduce Subscriptions

Keep subscription costs in check with a regular review. This is a simple yet effective money-saving tip for families, as they really do add up! If you review regularly, you can ensure that you only pay for services and memberships you use.

15. Talk Budget Together

Involve the whole family in budgeting sessions. Discuss monthly finances and teach your kids the ropes of personal finance, including saving and responsible spending.

16. Check Your Current Deals

Haggle with your service providers or consider switching to snag better deals on your internet, mobile plans, or gas and electric.

That’s a wrap on our top money-saving tips for families! With these 16 smart strategies, you can tighten the purse strings without squeezing out the fun. Start small, think big, and watch your savings grow.

Want more advice? See our other money and budget-focused blogs below.

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

How Can a Busy Mum or Dad Practice Self-Care?

Posted on October 20, 2023November 25, 2023 by schoolhouse

Being a mum or dad is incredibly rewarding, but let’s face it, it’s also quite demanding. From school runs to preparing meals and balancing work, it feels like there’s hardly a moment to catch our breath.

With that being said, it’s essential to remember that taking a bit of time for ourselves isn’t a luxury—it’s vital for your overall well-being. Easier said than done, we know! But when we’re at our best, so are our families. Here are our top self-care ideas for busy mums and dads to help you take time for you.

1. Take Short Breaks

One of the best self-care ideas I’ve come across is the magic of short breaks. Taking just a few moments throughout the day can do wonders for our mental well-being. A 5-minute meditation to centre yourself, a brisk walk around the block to clear your head, or even just sitting down with a lovely cup of tea. These little pauses can recharge us.

2. Incorporate Physical Activity

Some movement in our day is one of those self-care ideas that benefit both our minds and bodies. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown gym session. Dancing in the living room with the kids (bonus points for embarrassing dance moves!) or squeezing in a quick home workout while dinner’s in the oven can make a world of difference.

3. Have Mindful Moments

Mindfulness isn’t just a buzzword; it’s all about being present in the moment, and it’s a fantastic way to calm our busy minds. So, try to take a few minutes each day for some simple mindfulness exercises. It could be as straightforward as focused breathing, where you tune into each breath. Give it a go; you might be surprised at how centred it makes you feel.

4. Stay Connected

Staying connected with our loved ones is essential for our emotional well-being, but surprisingly, it’s one of those self-care ideas that’s often overlooked. So what do we mean by “staying connected”? It depends on what social activities you prefer. Maybe you love to meet up with friends or having a virtual coffee catch up. Maybe it´s something simple like messaging family and friends or joining a parent support group where you can share the highs and lows of parenting. Remember, it’s the quality of our connections that counts, not the quantity.

5. Prioritise Sleep

Sleep isn’t just about resting our bodies; it’s about rejuvenating our minds. The restorative power of a good night’s sleep can genuinely work wonders on our mood and energy levels. If you’re struggling to catch those Zs, consider some self-care ideas focused on sleep. It may be time to establish a calming bedtime routine or try some relaxation techniques before hitting the pillow.

6. Indulge in a Hobby

Getting lost in a book, crafting something beautiful, or pottering about in the garden…no matter what you enjoy, find an activity that you love and make time for it each week. It’s not just about passing the time; it’s about reconnecting with yourself and finding joy in the little things.

7. Seek Support

It’s okay to ask for help, so please do if you feel you need it. Whether it’s leaning on family, confiding in friends, or seeking professional guidance, reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. There are plenty of resources out there for parents, from counselling services to parent coaching, there’s a wealth of support waiting for you.

Start prioritising your self-care

Let’s circle back to the heart of the matter: self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. For all the mums and dads out there, prioritising your well-being isn’t just about you. It’s about setting a positive example for your little ones and ensuring you’re at your best for them. After all, when you take care of yourself, the whole family benefits.

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

Screen Free Activity Ideas To Do As A Family

Posted on October 10, 2023October 18, 2023 by schoolhouse

In today’s digital age, prioritising screen-free family activities has taken on greater significance than ever before. Stepping away from screens, if only temporarily, offers families a precious opportunity to connect authentically, forging enduring memories free from the distractions of constant notifications.

If you’re eager to cultivate more of these meaningful moments, you’re in for a delightful journey as we present a treasure trove of screen-free activities to help you build lasting memories together.

1. Explore the Outdoors

Nature Walks: Why not head out to your local parks, forests, or nature reserves? We’re spoilt for choice in South Wales and it’s a brilliant screen-free activity to explore the great outdoors and spot some local wildlife.

Garden Exploration: Whether you’ve got green fingers or not, there’s something quite magical about pottering about in the garden. Plant some flowers, try your hand at growing veggies, or simply sit back and admire nature’s beauty. If you haven’t got a garden, it could be worth visiting family or friends and making it a group activity.

Beach Days: Nothing beats building grand sandcastles, hunting for the prettiest shells, or having a splash about in the waves. And if it´s winter? Just wrap up warm and have a walk along the beach – this can be refreshing with lots for little ones to explore.

2. Get Creative

Crafting Together: Feeling crafty? From painting masterpieces to tackling DIY projects, it’s time to let the family’s artistic flair shine through. The best thing about this is you can make it as simple as you’d like, using pencils or paper, or make it as elaborate as you’d like!

Cooking and Baking: Roll up those sleeves and get stuck in the kitchen! Whether it’s baking a scrumptious cake or whipping up dinner, it’s a fab way to teach the kids some essential culinary tricks. They’re never too young to learn, right?

Music and Dance: One of the screen-free activities that’s lots of fun, belt out those tunes, show off those dance moves and have a karaoke night or family dance-off.

3. Have Fun While Learning

Board Games: Dust off those classic games and challenge the mind. It’s all about strategy, fun, and a bit of friendly competition. For a different kind of mental exercise, consider tackling a jigsaw puzzle, an excellent means to sharpen problem-solving skills. Whatever you choose, board games have a magical way of uniting everyone for hours of shared enjoyment.

Interactive Reading: Pick a family favourite book, gather around, and journey through its pages together; you could even take turns to read.

4. Let’s Get Physical

Sports: Whether it’s a game of badminton, football or rounders, a little game can include the whole family and ignite some friendly rivalry. Not into group sports? A bike ride or rollerblading are excellent sports that can be enjoyed together, or you can teach your children something new.

Yoga or Meditation: In the hustle and bustle, find a moment of calm. Stretch, breathe, and find your zen. This would be great to teach your children how to relax while encouraging mental health care along with physical activity. One of the screen-free activities that balance your health.

5. Get Involved in the Community

Local Events: Fancy a day out? Enjoy the festivities at a fair, or immerse yourself in cultural festivals. Check council’s or cities’ social pages; there’s always something happening.

Volunteering: Ever thought about giving back? Spend a day at a local shelter, food bank, or community garden. It’s not just about helping out; it’s about teaching your children the value of kindness and community.

Take the Screen-Free Challenge

Embracing screen-free activities goes beyond just cutting down on tech time. It’s about strengthening those family bonds and creating memories that’ll be cherished for years to come.

So, why not set aside regular screen-free days or hours? Explore interests and, most importantly, enjoy the sheer joy of being together as a family. After all, it’s these moments that truly matter.

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

What experiences should I be introducing from baby to toddler?

Posted on September 15, 2023August 28, 2023 by schoolhouse

Finding things to do with baby is a mission for every parent. Why? Because introducing varied experiences from baby to toddler years is not just about keeping them entertained; it’s about shaping their future.

These significant moments play a significant role in moulding their cognitive and physical development. So, we’re here to tell you about the best activities and experiences that can enrich these formative years, ensuring your child gets the best start in life.

1. Sensory Experiences for Babies:

One of the most enriching things to do with baby is to introduce them to sensory play. Sensory experiences are vital for babies as they offer a world of discovery through touch, sound, and sight.

Soft Texture Exploration: Let your baby feel different textures, from the softness of cotton to the roughness of a clean sponge. This tactile exploration can be both calming and educational.

Listening to Varied Sounds: From the gentle rustling of leaves to the rhythmic beats of a drum, exposing babies to a variety of sounds can stimulate their auditory senses and enhance their listening skills.

Visual Stimulation with Colourful Objects: Bright, contrasting colours can captivate a baby’s attention, aiding in visual development and focus.

Read: How to Make a Sensory Bin for Toddlers: The Definitive Guide

2. Physical Activities for Growing Babies:

Physical activity isn’t just for adults; it’s one of the essential things to do with baby to ensure they develop robust motor skills. As babies grow, their bodies are eager to move, stretch, and explore.

Tummy Time: Laying your baby on their belly strengthens their neck and shoulder muscles, preparing them for crawling and walking milestones.

Baby Yoga: Baby yoga is a fantastic way to enhance flexibility and coordination. Plus, it’s a calming bonding experience for both parent and baby.

Simple Baby Games: Games like “peek-a-boo” or “pat-a-cake” are not just fun; they also teach babies about rhythm, coordination, and anticipation.

3. Cognitive and Social Activities for Toddlers:

As babies blossom into curious toddlers, their need for cognitive and social stimulation intensifies.

Simple Puzzles: Introducing toddlers to basic puzzles can sharpen their problem-solving skills and enhance hand-eye coordination.

Group Playdates: Social interactions are crucial at this age. Organising group playdates can help toddlers learn about sharing, empathy, and communication.

Storytime and Interactive Reading: Reading isn’t just about recognising words. Toddlers can learn about emotions, expressions, and the world around them.

4. The Role of Nature and Outdoor Play:

One of the most enriching things to do with baby is to immerse them in the wonders of the natural world. The fresh air, the vibrant colours, and the mixture of textures and sounds offer a sensory feast for young minds.

Nature Walks: Even a simple stroll in the park can be a learning experience. Pointing out different plants, animals, and sounds can stimulate a baby’s curiosity and appreciation for nature.

Garden Exploration: If you have a garden, let your baby or toddler explore it. Feeling the grass, observing insects, or even helping with simple gardening tasks can be both fun and educational.

Playing in Sand and Water: Beaches or even simple sand and water tables can provide hours of imaginative play, enhancing both physical and cognitive skills.

For a deeper understanding of the health benefits of outdoor play for children, the Gov.uk website offers valuable insights and recommendations.

Read: 6 Key Reasons to spend More Time Outdoors with Your Baby

Early Play and Experiences are Powerful!

The journey from baby to toddler is filled with endless opportunities for growth and development. From sensory play to social interactions, each experience plays a crucial role in shaping who they will become.

Parents, your proactive involvement in providing these enriching experiences can’t be overstated. The long-term benefits are immeasurable, and the joy you’ll witness as your child discovers the world around them is priceless.

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

Starting School Essentials: Parent Guide and Checklist

Posted on August 28, 2023August 28, 2023 by schoolhouse

The first day of school is a whirlwind of emotions. Excitement, anxiety, joy, and a touch of sadness as you realise your little one is growing up. Every parent knows the feeling. But amidst the flurry of new uniforms and shiny school shoes, there’s a niggling thought: “Have I forgotten something?”

That’s where our starting school checklist comes in.

This guide ensures you’re not just prepared but confidently equipped for the big day. Because while the first day of school is a milestone, being well-prepared can make it a joyous one.

1. Essential School Supplies Checklist

Uniforms and Clothing: The first-day photo is a cherished memory, so ensure your child looks the part. Invest in the school’s uniform, but also remember spare clothes for those unexpected spills. Don’t forget the PE kit for physical activities, and ensure you have weather-appropriate clothing – be it raincoats for drizzly days or sun hats for the warmer months.

Stationery and Learning Tools: Every budding scholar needs their tools. This part of the starting school checklist includes essentials like pencils, erasers, and notebooks. A colourful pencil case can also be a fun and practical addition.

Lunch and Snack Preparations: Nutrition is vital for a day full of learning. Invest in a sturdy lunchbox and a leak-proof water bottle, and when it comes to snacks, think healthy. Fresh fruits, yoghurt or a handful of nuts can be great energy boosters.

Personal Items: Labelled items such as backpacks, lunch bags, and water bottles not only ensure they don’t get lost but also instil a sense of ownership and responsibility in your child.

2. Emotional Preparation

Transitioning to school is as much an emotional journey as it is a practical one. As part of your starting school checklist, it’s essential to prepare your child mentally for this new chapter.

Begin by discussing the new routine they’ll be adopting, perhaps by using a fun calendar or visual aids.

Reading books about starting school can also paint a positive picture and alleviate any jitters. If possible, visit the school beforehand, allowing your child to familiarise themselves with the environment.

Lastly, a consistent bedtime routine ensures they’re well-rested, and always make time to discuss any anxieties or fears they might have, reassuring them every step of the way.

3. Building Independence

One of the most rewarding aspects of starting school is watching your child grow in independence. Simple tasks like tying shoelaces, packing their bags, or using the bathroom on their own can be monumental milestones.

At Schoolhouse, we understand the importance of these skills. Drawing from our extensive experience in childcare, our starting school checklist and programmes are designed to nurture and develop these abilities, ensuring your child steps into school with confidence and self-reliance.

4. Staying Informed and Involved

Ticking off items from your starting school checklist is just the beginning. Stay in the loop by diligently reading all school communications – those newsletters and notices are golden nuggets of information.

Make it a point to attend parent-teacher meetings; they’re the perfect avenue to understand your child’s progress and areas of improvement. And why stop there? Immerse yourself in school activities, be it a sports day or a school play.

** For a treasure trove of parent resources and tips, websites like Netmums are invaluable.

Embarking on the School Adventure: Your Starting School Checklist Completed

As we wrap up our comprehensive starting school checklist, let’s circle back to the heart of the matter: preparation.

It’s the magic wand that transforms anxiety into excitement, and uncertainty into confidence. Parents, trust your instincts. You know your child best.

And remember, you’re not alone on this journey. Schoolhouse stands beside you, a steadfast partner, ensuring your child’s transition to school is as smooth and joyful as possible.

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

Creating a Strong Foundation: Why Day Nurseries Are Essential for Early Learning

Posted on August 16, 2023July 28, 2023 by schoolhouse

Day nurseries play a virtual role in early learning and create a strong educational foundation for your children. We will explore the significance of early education, trained staff, age-appropriate activities, nurturing environments, and the benefits of group learning in this post.

The Importance of Early Education

Early education is crucial for setting the tone for your child’s lifelong learning journey. Day nurseries play a crucial role here, offering a structured yet engaging start to education. Research is clear on this.

Research conducted by National Institute for Early Education Research (NIEER) found that children who participate in well-executed early education programs demonstrate higher high school graduation rates, improved employment prospects, and reduced behavioural challenges. This highlights the transformative impact day nurseries can have.

By focusing on cognitive and social skills, they lay the groundwork for our children’s academic and personal success, right from their tender years.

The Role of Trained and Experienced Staff

Day nurseries are enriched by dedicated, trained, and experienced staff who play a pivotal role in shaping your child’s early learning experiences. Staff members come from diverse educational backgrounds, including early childhood education and child psychology, which equips them with the knowledge and skills to foster a child’s development effectively.

Their role goes beyond teaching the ABCs. They nurture emotional intelligence, encourage curiosity, and instil a love for learning. With their expertise, they identify and cater to individual learning styles, ensuring each child’s unique developmental needs are met. Truly, they’re the backbone of day nurseries.

Age-Appropriate Activities and Resources

Day nurseries offer a wide variety of age-appropriate activities and resources, from interactive games to educational toys. The resources are designed to promote cognitive development, language skills, creativity, and physical coordination.

This diversified approach keeps learning fun and engaging, which cultivates well-rounded children ready to embrace future educational challenges.

Benefits of Structured Learning Experiences in a Group Setting

The structured group learning experiences at day nurseries are invaluable. These experiences boost not only academic knowledge but also social skills.

Children learn to cooperate, share, negotiate, and understand different perspectives – vital life skills that textbooks alone cannot teach, proving that learning in a group setting truly is a social and educational win-win.

The Stimulating Environment of Day Nurseries

Day nurseries create a vibrant, stimulating environment that fosters every aspect of your child’s development. The spaces are nurturing, promoting cognitive growth, social interactions, emotional maturity, and physical dexterity, all while keeping your child’s safety paramount.

Holistic Approach of Day Nurseries

A holistic approach is adopted at day nurseries to focus on your child’s intellectual, social, emotional and physical development.

The curriculum extends beyond academics, fostering critical thinking, emotional intelligence, physical activities, and creativity. Learning experiences are customised to each child’s needs, creating a solid foundation for their lifelong journey.

Day nurseries play a crucial role in fostering your child’s passion for learning and overall development. They prioritise a balanced approach, nurturing your child’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical growth, laying a solid foundation for their future achievements.

Your child will receive excellent care and education at day nurseries which will prepare them for school and the challenges of life, providing parents and caregivers peace of mind. Let’s join hands in nurturing the bright future of our children together!

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

The ABCs of School Readiness: How to Get Your Child and Yourself Ready

Posted on August 5, 2023July 26, 2023 by schoolhouse

Around this time each year, there´s a blend of eager anticipation and a touch of nerves. Why? Because the next generation of children are starting school. And the question on every parent’s mind is: “Is my child ready for the big school adventure?” Quickly followed by, “Am I ready for this transition?”

If this is a situation you are finding yourself in, don´t fret! Here are the ABCs of school readiness.

A is for Attitude

The very first teacher a child has are their parents, so develop a positive attitude in your child towards learning and school. Instil in them the joy of learning, the fun in discovery, and the excitement of meeting new friends. It’s vital to make the process exciting and something to look forward to.

B is for Balance

School readiness involves both the mind and the body, and you can help get your children ready for both. Encourage physical activities to develop their fine and gross motor skills, and start teaching them how to express their feelings appropriately and how they can handle their emotions.

A UK study, published in the Journal of School Psychology, found that social-emotional skills at school entry predicted key stage 1 national curriculum assessment outcomes in both reading and maths. This reinforces just how important social-emotional development is for school readiness.

C is for Communication

Nurturing communication skills is a crucial part of school readiness. Foster an environment at home where your child feels safe to express their thoughts and feelings. Encourage them to articulate their needs, dreams, and fears. This will equip them to interact effectively with their teachers and peers.

D is for Discipline

Establishing routines and expectations helps your child understand and follow the rules, an essential skill they’ll need in a structured school environment. Start with simple tasks like packing away toys after playtime, following a bedtime routine, or helping with simple household chores.

E is for Exposure

Stimulate your child’s curiosity and learning by exposing them to a variety of experiences. Visiting parks, museums, libraries, or even just a trip to the grocery store can be an educational experience. These moments provide practical ways to discuss new topics and broaden their understanding of the world.

Now, let’s not forget about you, the parents. Your readiness is equally crucial. Embrace the change, be prepared for the new routine, and always be there to support your child. Celebrate their achievements, no matter how small, and help them navigate their challenges. Remember, it’s not about making them reliant on you, but about fostering independence.

Remember, no perfect formula exists, and every child’s school readiness journey is unique. So, take a deep breath, enjoy this new phase, and trust that you are doing a fantastic job!

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

Family beach trip essentials: What to pack for a successful day at the beach

Posted on July 21, 2023July 26, 2023 by schoolhouse

Ah, an idyllic and carefree family beach trip – that’s just what you need this summer. It’s a great way for the grown-ups to relax by the seaside and the kids to play in the sand, although a family beach trip isn’t without sand ending up in all the wrong places! If you want to make your day at the beach successful, here is our list of family beach trip essentials. Pack like a pro and you´ll set yourself up for a stress-free day.

Always keep a first aid kit and clean-up kit

Even though you´re likely doing all you can to keep your kids safe, accidents do happen, so it´s good to be prepared.

Packing a small first aid kit along with the rest of your stuff doesn’t take up that much space. Plus, if one of your children gets a bump, a scrape, or even an unexpected ailment, you’ll be equipped to deal with it on the spot.

Tantamount to this is a clean-up kit: tissues, wipes, hand gel, etc. are all items you should never leave home without. No matter how young or old your kids are. They can prove to be very handy when you least expect it.

Sunscreen your way to fun

Skin cancer affects not only healthy adults but also children. Plus, why let a perfectly good day at the beach get ruined by sunburn?

Many people think getting sunburnt isn’t possible with cloudy or overcast weather, but that’s a misconception. If you or your kids plan to go for a dip, reapply the sunscreen every two hours, either before or right after swimming.

Come up with a nice entertainment checklist

While there´s sun, sea, and sand, children still need to be entertained. At the bare minimum, here’s what we recommend as part of our family beach trip essentials:

A bucket and spade for all the sand digging and castle building (great activity for the grownups too)
A beachball, beach paddles or football for fun-filled family games
A fishing net and sturdy waterproof sandals for the rock pooling
Bodyboards and snorkels if your kids are a little older and know how to swim
Reading material when you want to sit back and lose yourself in a good book for a while

Time to hit the road and lose yourself at the beach. Hopefully, the weather won’t turn!

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At Schoolhouse Daycare, we enjoy learning, encouraging confidence and we love life! If you think your child would enjoy life at Schoolhouse, then please do not hesitate to arrange a visit.

Need more help or advice? Find more from us here:

4 healthy snack ideas to try during the summer holidays

Posted on July 10, 2023July 26, 2023 by schoolhouse

These six weeks of school holidays are often the best time spent between parents and their children, but planning all the meals can get stressful. Especially around meal times when the children get snacky! To ease that pang of hunger (and so that you can keep your sanity) here are a couple of healthy snack ideas to have up your sleeve.

Choose a good variety of snack foods

Staying at home and away from school means your kids are usually tempted to have snacks high in sugar, salt and fat. Once in a while may be okay, but we want to avoid this whenever we can.

When it comes to choosing healthier snacks, aim for ones that are nutritious and low in empty calories. Things like:

low-fat dips and spreads,
raw vegetable sticks,
fruit salads,
wholemeal toast,
low-fat yoghurt,
reduced-fat cheese,
and so on.

These types of snacks – think high fibre, high protein, and low sugary carbohydrates – are the name of the game. They will keep hungry bellies fuller for longer.

Healthy snack ideas

1. Granola, granola, everywhere!

Homemade granola bars are very popular with kids, especially when you pop them fresh out of the oven. You can even store them in the freezer for a while, and then just heat to serve when needed.

If you want to bypass making granola yourself, however, you can buy them from almost every supermarket. Here are some of the best options.

2. Irresistible low-sugar fruit and yoghurt cups

If you can find a good low-sugar fruit and yoghurt cup from your local shop, great! However, make sure to check the ingredients as they can still be loaded with sugar and carbs that will make your kids run in circles for at least a few hours before they have a sugar crash.

If you want to be sure that what you´re giving your children is in the bracket of healthy snack ideas, homemade fruit and yoghurt cups are the best way to go. They are easy to make too:

Put fruit and organic/raw honey at the bottom of some mason jars and stuff in the yoghurt. Add frozen berries as they get mushy after being thawed. Now, pack a small travel container or mason jar with some granola to stir in the yoghurt and berry mix. Stock it in the freezer and whip that good stuff out when your children crave a cool, sweet and tangy snack any time of the day.

3. Good old-fashioned toast

Did you know that toast, as basic (and boring) as it sounds, is still among the most common healthy snack ideas this summer?

The truth is, toast makes for a very nutritious lunch or even tea for your toddler, and it takes minimal effort too. Smashed avocado on wholemeal toast works brilliantly. Add a sprinkle of seeds and some nut butter with cucumber sticks. Alternatively, you can try an egg on the toast with some tomatoes on the side or baked beans.

Life is good indeed!

Well, what do you think? Give the above healthy snack ideas a try and admire the ear-to-ear grins on your children’s faces.

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