How to let your child engage in risky play (without having a heart attack)

Posted on by schoolhouse

Learning to assess hazards and understand risks in life is a normal part of an adult’s every day – but how did we learn to do this – and how can we teach our children to do the same?

Taking risks and learning from them is an inevitable and important part of growing up. And as parents or carers, it is our responsibility to encourage healthy risk-taking behaviour. By understanding different types of such behaviour and the motivation behind them, you can set children up for success and reduce their risk of harm in future life.

Here´s our essential guide to risky play.

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Why is risky play important?

Children take risks for a number of reasons. As some children develop mastery of a task, they take risks to improve their skills; for example, as pre-schoolers, they may try balancing on logs in their favourite park, which can lead to them walking on top of a wall by a river as they turn into teenagers! Some risk-taking behaviours stem from an effort to assert independence and develop autonomy.

We tend to associate the term risk with dangerous activities, but risk-taking behaviours can be healthy, too. For example, when your child steps outside of their comfort zone and participates in a new activity, or when they are joining a new leisure club, or auditioning for a role in the latest school play – these all come with risk and sometimes disappointment, but isn’t that a part of learning how to deal with new situations when they are older?

Such healthy risk-taking behaviors are a normal and important part of child development and should be encouraged as your children learn to make good choices and become more skilled and independent.

risky play

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Guidelines for safe risk-taking

Providing children with opportunities to take controlled risks helps them grow, so how can we do this (without giving ourselves a heart attack)?

When it comes to facilitating risky play safely, it’s all about striking the right balance between freedom and safety. Here are some practical tips for parents and educators:

  • Adopt the “As safe as necessary” approach: Instead of trying to make everything ‘as safe as possible’, focus on making environments safe for children to explore risks without danger. 
  • Use the 17-second rule: Before stepping in, pause for 17 seconds to observe how a child handles a risky situation. This brief moment can provide insight into whether the child can manage independently or needs your help.
  • Create safe boundaries: Design play areas that encourage risk-taking within a safety framework. This might mean setting up a climbing frame with appropriate fall mats, choosing safe locations for playing near elements like water, or supervising activities that involve tools.

risky play

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Age-appropriate risky play and its benefits

Risky play is a dynamic way to support a child’s development. Not to mention that it teaches resilience and independence within a safe environment!

Let’s explore the types of risky play and their benefits:

  1. Play with heights: Climbing trees and structures allows children to develop their coordination and assess their limits. For toddlers, this means supervised climbing on low structures. Preschoolers can tackle more complex climbing challenges, and school-age children can ascend to greater heights under watchful eyes. risky play
  2. Experiencing speed: Activities like riding bikes or sledges give children a sense of speed and motion. Toddlers can enjoy gentle pushes on swings, preschoolers can start with tricycles, and older children can handle bikes and sledges on varied terrains.
  3. Using tools: Handling tools, such as building forts with real hammers or saws, teaches responsibility and fine motor skills. Supervised tool use starts simply with preschoolers, who might use screwdrivers under adult supervision, and expands to more complex tools for school-aged children.
  4. Playing near elements: Being near elements like water and fire can teach children about natural forces and safety precautions. Water play can begin with shallow paddling pools for toddlers; supervised beach trips are great for preschoolers, and you can explore more adventurous water activities like kayaking for older children, always under strict supervision.
  5. Rough-and-tumble play: Wrestling and play fighting help children understand social boundaries and physical capabilities. This form of play should be closely monitored to ensure it stays friendly and fun. risky play
  6. Disappearing games: Games like hide-and-seek offer independence and exploration. Toddlers can play peek-a-boo; preschoolers can enjoy hide-and-seek in safe indoor spaces, and school-age children can extend their play to larger yet secure outdoor areas.

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Your role in risky play

The tendency of parents to wrap children in cotton wool has transformed how some children experience childhood today. It is important to remember that risk-taking is a normal part of a child’s development; it allows a child to define his identity and grow as an individual.

When children play, they move from what they know and can do—and what is, therefore, familiar and boring—to what is engaging, exciting, uncertain, and new. By taking risks, children build their capabilities, explore their emotions, expand their horizons, and test boundaries. They also gain practical experience of taking responsibility for their own safety.

So, talk to your children about risks and discuss ways to reduce the negative aspects of risk. Give your child opportunities to participate in healthy risk-taking behaviour and model appropriate risk-taking behaviour. Be brave by stepping back and giving your child space, but ensure you’re within reach that´s comfortable for you!

 

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.

 

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

 

Why is it important for a child to feel safe?

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Why is it important for a child to feel safe?

Since it´s Child Safety Week, we thought this was an important question to answer.

At Schoolhouse Daycare, we are committed to child safety and ensuring that every child feels secure and nurtured in our environment. After all, this is key to helping them learn and grow confidently, and for the healthy development of their young minds.

If you want to know more about how to make a child feel safe and why this is so important, read on.

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The importance of feeling safe and valued

Feeling safe and valued is essential for a child’s development. Research shows that children learn best when they are free from fear, enabling them to fully engage and take intellectual risks. 

A secure environment fosters effective and meaningful learning, encouraging active participation and the embrace of challenges. This supportive setting not only enhances their academic journey but also promotes their overall well-being, making it crucial to make a child feel safe to unlock their full potential.

Read: Professional Love in Early Years Settings: Why it´s Essential

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Practical strategies to make a child feel safe

Ensuring that children feel secure is fundamental to their development. Here are five practical ways to make a child feel safe, drawn from expert recommendations:

  1. Limits and boundaries: Establish clear rules that help children understand what is expected of them. This predictability makes the world less intimidating and helps children navigate their environments more confidently.
  2. Control: Always remain calm and be a voice of reason, especially during moments of misbehaviour. Remember, such moments often mean a child is struggling with emotions and needs your guidance to learn appropriate responses.
  3. Availability: Be consistently present, especially after conflicts or challenges. Quick reconciliations show children that disagreements don’t affect your love and support, reinforcing a sense of security.
  4. Acknowledge mistakes: When mistakes occur, admit them. Demonstrating that everyone, even adults, can err and recover teaches resilience and honesty.
  5. Routines and schedules: Maintain a consistent daily routine. Regular schedules provide stability and comfort, especially during times of change or stress.
  6. Open communication: Foster an environment where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings and concerns without fear of judgement. Encourage them to talk about their day and share both positive experiences and worries.
  7. Physical comfort: Sometimes, physical reassurance such as hugs, holding hands, or a pat on the back can help provide a sense of security. Gauge what each child is comfortable with to ensure they feel supported in a way that respects their boundaries.
  8. Educate on safety skills: Teach children basic safety measures like knowing who to contact in an emergency, understanding their home address, and how to assess safe versus unsafe situations. This knowledge can empower them and reduce anxiety about the unknown.

make a child feel safe

 

In conclusion, we can make a child feel safe by establishing a secure, supportive environment. Using practical strategies like clear boundaries, constant availability, and open communication, we can nurture children’s confidence and well-being.

These efforts not only help children thrive in the present but also equip them with the resilience to face future challenges.

 

Champions for child safety

At Schoolhouse, we are proud to partner with the Child Accident Prevention Trust (CAPT) during Child Safety Week. Our collaboration underscores our deep commitment to child safety, amplifying our impact on community safety initiatives. 

This partnership demonstrates our dedication to creating safer environments for children. Together with CAPT, we strive to make a child feel safe, embodying our core values through active community involvement.

 

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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:

 

Fascinating facts about children’s brains during the Early years

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Have you ever considered the miraculous journey of a child’s brain development during the early years? This period, teeming with growth and transformation, is a marvel to behold. To explore this intricate process in more depth, here are 6 fascinating facts you may not know about your child´s brain development.

 

#1 – The majority of brain growth happens in the first 5 years.

A fact that might surprise you is that a newborn’s brain, though only about a quarter of an adult’s in size, expands to almost 90% of adult size by age five. And that’s just the start.

In the early years, a child’s brain is very active, making over a million neural connections every second. These connections will influence future learning, behaviour, and health, quite literally moulding their future selves. Quite something, isn’t it?

Read: Why Day Nurseries are Essential for Early Learning

#2 – Positive interactions are key to growth and success.

What’s heartwarming is how our interactions with children can help drive this remarkable growth. Simple acts like chatting, reading, or singing to a child can bolster these neural connections and encourage cognitive growth. Playing with them, and engaging with their imaginative worlds, is also a massive booster.

It’s been found that high-quality early childhood education can significantly impact a child’s success down the line. It’s akin to nurturing a tiny seed into a lush, sturdy tree over time.

toddler reading a book

#3 – Nurturing a strong parent-child relationship as early as possible is essential for social development.

Building on this, we move to attachment theory, which focuses on the emotional bonds children form with their caregivers during these early years. These bonds greatly impact their social and emotional growth. Simply put, consistent, loving care forms a secure attachment, fostering a positive self-image and a healthy approach to learning.

In contrast, inconsistent care can result in insecure attachment, which may hinder a child’s emotional development. Hence, these early bonds play a crucial role in shaping a child’s future.

#4 – Young children sleep so much due to learning, rather than rest.

Now, despite being bundles of energy, young children spend about half their time asleep. But don’t be fooled, their brains aren’t on a break. While peacefully snoozing, their brains are busy sorting out memories and assimilating the day’s experiences, further strengthening their neural pathways. This underlines just how crucial a good night’s sleep is for healthy brain development.

baby sleeping in a bed to represent child´s brain development

#5 – Children don´t have a dominant side of their brain in the first 3 years.

You might’ve heard about people being ‘left-brained’ or ‘right-brained,’ but in young children, things are a bit different. They utilise both sides of their brain equally until about the age of three when they might start leaning towards one side.

This could be why children are such amazing inventors and storytellers. It’s like they’ve got an orchestra in their heads, and everyone’s playing together!

#6 – Young children learn different languages incredibly well.

One of the standout marvels of early childhood is the natural gift for language. It’s remarkable how young kids can differentiate between different sounds and languages – something which often challenges adults.

That’s why we should embrace the opportunity to introduce children to different languages at an early age. They’re ready-made linguists, picking up sounds and structures with ease.

a little boy holding his mother's face to represent how to teach your child kindness

Childhood: A Time of Wonder

Peering into these captivating facts about a child’s brain development in the early years is like uncovering hidden wonders. This time is a hotbed of fast-paced development, with each child charting their unique course filled with milestones and discoveries.

As adults, we can play a vital role in guiding and nurturing this growth. These little humans aren’t just our future, they are our present too, a vibrant and exciting present that’s growing and learning each day.

 

 

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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 brain science of play

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Ever wondered why play is so important for children?

In this article, we explore why this is, particularly the science behind play and how it helps the young brain develop.

From brain development and emotional resilience to its essential role in healthy human growth, here is why play is so crucial and what you can do as parents to support and encourage this development.

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The neurological foundations of play

Play is vital for brain development, quickly establishing complex neural networks in babies that form the basis for their future cognitive, emotional, and physical growth. Infants strengthen these connections by exploring their surroundings and interacting with sensory stimuli.

Reaching for colourful objects, listening to sounds, or tasting different textures, serves as a brain workout, reinforcing and creating new neural pathways. This early sensory play is vital as it challenges and expands the brain’s capabilities, making it more adaptable and strong.

the importance of play

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Key learning through play

Understanding the importance of play in childhood development highlights its many benefits that extend into adulthood:

Sensory exploration

  • Cognitive development: Grasping cause and effect through interactions with various sensory stimuli emphasises the importance of play in cognitive skill building.
  • World understanding: Children learn how their actions impact their environment, a key insight provided by the importance of play.

Repetitive play

  • Motor skill improvement: Activities such as stacking blocks or solving puzzles encourage refining motor skills.
  • Cognitive skill enhancement: The importance of play is evident as it reinforces knowledge, encourages persistence, and supports skill development.

Role-playing and decision-making:

  • Social skill enhancement: Through assuming various roles and navigating social scenarios, children learn the importance of play in developing complex social skills.
  • Emotional intelligence growth: Play is crucial in building empathy, cooperation, and the ability to understand social cues.

the importance of play

Long-term impact:

  • Mental health promotion: Play is crucial as it develops the psychological tools needed to manage stress and challenges later in life.
  • Problem-solving enhancement: Adults who experienced diverse play as children typically show more flexible thinking, highlighting the lasting benefits of play.

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Supporting and encouraging Play

Now we understand how important play if for development, here are effective ways to nurture play:

  • Create diverse play environments: Set up spaces that spark curiosity and imagination, such as colourful playrooms filled with toys and outdoor areas for nature exploration.
  • Allow unstructured play: Let children play freely without too much guidance from adults. Unstructured play ignites creativity, problem-solving skills, and independence. 
  • Promote social play: Social play is crucial for developing emotional and social skills. By playing with peers, children learn to cooperate, negotiate, and empathise. Organising playdates or participating in community playgroups are great ways to support this.

the importance of play

By taking these steps, we can reinforce the importance of play and ensure children have the necessary environments and opportunities to thrive.

The importance of play in developing a well-rounded, resilient individual cannot be overstated. Play is not only fundamental for cognitive and emotional growth but is also crucial in laying the groundwork for healthy mental and social capabilities later in life. As we’ve explored, play shapes the brain, influences lifelong well-being, and prevents negative developmental outcomes.

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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:

Springtime learning and development: the benefits and 6 spring activities for kids

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Spring is in the air! This means it´s the perfect time to get our children outside, learning and engaging in spring activities that nurture their physical well-being.

Need help with some ideas? Here´s why spring activities are so important along with our top ideas to help with your child´s learning and development.

The benefits of outdoor learning in spring

Outdoor play is so important for children as they grow – here´s why:

  • Enhanced physical development: Spring activities encourage children to be active, improving their physical strength, coordination, and overall fitness.
  • Stimulated curiosity and exploration: The vibrant spring environment, with its new life and growth, naturally increases children’s curiosity and exploration.
  • Improved mental well-being: Time spent outdoors in the fresh spring air can significantly boost mood, reduce stress, and enhance mental well-being.
  • Hands-on learning: From observing plant growth to understanding weather changes, spring offer invaluable hands-on learning opportunities.spring activities for kids.
  • Increased connection with nature: Spring encourages a deeper appreciation and understanding of the natural world and environment.
  • Enhanced social skills: Outdoor activities often involve teamwork and communication, helping children to develop their social skills and make new friends.
  • Boosted creativity and imagination: The stimulating outdoor environment of spring can inspire creativity and imaginative play, both of which are essential components of cognitive development.

Top spring activities for kids that promote physical wellbeing

As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, here are some of the best spring activities for kids to get them moving, learning, and soaking up the season’s joys, all while promoting their physical well-being.

Nature walks and scavenger hunts: These adventures are brilliant for encouraging little explorers to hone their observation and curiosity skills, all while giving their physical fitness a boost.

Gardening projects: Getting their hands dirty is great for developing those fine motor skills. Why not start with some simple projects like planting a mix of colourful flowers or easy-to-grow veggies?

spring activities for kids

Outdoor art and craft: Think grand nature collages or vibrant sidewalk chalk art that gets them moving and creating.

Water play and exploration: From a makeshift water table in the backyard to conducting simple water-based experiments, the possibilities are endless.

Biking and obstacle courses: Whether it’s a leisurely family bike ride or a thrilling obstacle course set up in the garden. These activities are great for improving coordination and building physical endurance.

spring activities for kids

Picnics with a twist: Elevate the classic picnic with a dash of active fun. Toss in some games and physical activities like frisbee, catch, or even a mini-sports day to make those picnic outings extra special and lively.

Incorporating learning into physical activities

Merging education with physical activity can turn every outdoor adventure into a learning opportunity. Here’s how:

  • Counting games during a hike: Transform a simple hike into a maths lesson by counting steps, trees, or even birds along the path.
  • Learning about plant life while gardening: Use gardening time to teach about different plant species, their growth cycles, and the importance of biodiversity.

spring activities for kids

As spring rolls in, it’s the perfect time to get our kids moving and grooving outdoors. These fun activities aren’t just great for their health; they’re also a fab way to spend some quality family time. So, let’s make the most of this lovely season and help our little ones grow strong and happy.

 

 

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.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

Hop into Spring: Fun Easter Traditions for the Whole Family

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There’s nothing better than family time, especially around big holidays such as Easter. These are perfect for creating moments filled with laughter and creativity.

Want to create some Easter traditions? Let’s take a look at some experiences that are what Easter is all about, giving us precious memories to cherish.

1. Creative easter egg hunts

One of the most beloved Easter traditions for families is the Easter egg hunt, a thrilling quest for hidden treasures that delight both the young and the young at heart. Let’s take this tradition a step further with some inventive twists that promise even more fun and laughter.

  • Garden adventure: Transform your garden into an enchanting egg hunt with a traditional egg hunt peppered with hidden clues. Each clue leads to the next, turning the search into an exciting adventure. 
  • Nighttime glow: Add a sprinkle of magic to your Easter traditions for families with a nighttime egg hunt. Use glow-in-the-dark eggs to light up the garden, creating a mystical glow that guides the hunters.
  • Educational hunt: Who says Easter can’t be both fun and educational? Mix in some learning with your egg hunt by incorporating puzzles or riddles related to Easter or spring. Each solved puzzle reveals the location of the next egg, challenging kids to think and learn as they play. It’s a wonderful way to add depth to the egg hunt, making it a rewarding experience for curious minds.

easter traditions for families

2. Arts and crafts for all ages 

If you´re particularly crafty, why don´t you try some fun arts and crafts activities together? Such as:

  • Easter bonnets and baskets: Embrace the joy of DIY by crafting your own Easter bonnets and baskets. Utilise recycled materials, scraps of fabric, and a sprinkle of embellishments to create something truly unique. This activity also teaches the value of upcycling, making it a meaningful addition to your Easter traditions for families.
  • Egg decorating: A firm family favourite is egg decoration! Move beyond the traditional paint and dye; think natural dyes made from beetroot or turmeric, whimsical designs with stickers, or even temporary tattoos for a modern twist. Each egg becomes a canvas, reflecting individual imagination.

easter traditions for families

3. Cooking and baking easter traditions for families

Whether you love cooking and baking or you want your children to get culinary, there are a few on-theme things you can do to get your hands dirty:

  • Easter baking: Share the joy of baking with simple, Easter-themed recipes. Involve the kids in baking bunny-shaped cookies or crafting nest cakes with mini eggs nestled on top. 
  • Family brunch: Elevate your Easter with a festive brunch that caters to all taste buds. From savoury quiches to sweet pancakes shaped like Easter eggs, let your brunch be a feast that celebrates the season’s abundance.
  • Chocolate making: Add a twist to your Easter traditions for families with a chocolate-making session. Crafting your chocolate eggs or bunnies allows for custom fillings and decorations, turning each piece into a personalised work of art. 

easter traditions for families

4. Easter stories and games

Easter traditions for families often include tales of spring and renewal alongside games that bring everyone together.

  • Storytelling: Choose from a selection of Easter-themed books or stories that celebrate new beginnings and the wonders of nature. This cosy tradition not only entertains but also instils values of hope and renewal.
  • Easter games: Classics like the egg and spoon race, the bunny hop sack race, or the ever-popular pin the tail on the bunny, are fantastic ways to get everyone moving and enjoying the outdoors. These games are essential Easter traditions for families, creating lively memories that will be talked about long after the day is over.

easter traditions for families

Like any of these Easter traditions for families? Or perhaps you have your own? However you choose to celebrate, we hope you cherish these moments, creating memories that last a lifetime and bringing your family closer together each spring.

 

 

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.

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

How to encourage your children to read for pleasure

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Encouraging children to read for pleasure can truly open up a world of adventure and imagination, significantly benefiting their development. In an era dominated by screens, convincing our children to pick up a book can often feel like a bit of a mission, right? Well, hopefully, not anymore.

We’re here to share some top tips for encouraging children to read – making the journey not just effective but incredibly fun for everyone involved.

Top tips for encouraging reading

There are so many benefits to reading.

  • Reading for pleasure boosts literacy skills, making words their friends rather than foes.
  • It fires up their imagination, turning them into little dreamers and thinkers.
  • And guess what? It even gives them a leg up at school, leading to better academic performance across the board.

So here´s how to encourage it!

1. Create a reading-friendly environment

Now, onto crafting that perfect reading spot. Imagine a cosy corner where stories come to life, a place so inviting that even the most stubborn screen-lovers can’t resist. A comfy chair, soft lighting, and maybe a few cushions can transform any nook into a reader’s paradise.

encouraging children to read

2. Lead by example

When it comes to encouraging children to read, nothing beats showing them how it’s done. Let them catch you lost in a book, chuckling at a funny line, or gasping at a plot twist. It’s all about showing them that reading isn’t just homework; it’s a ticket to adventure.

3. Integrate reading into daily routines

Making reading a regular part of your family’s day can work wonders. How about a bedtime story that takes them to dreamland? Or some quiet reading time while dinner simmers away?

Why not mix things up with a family reading hour? Everyone grabs their book of choice and dives in. It’s a great way to show that reading is for everyone, not just for school or bedtime. 

Check out our other blog Benefits of reading to your child for more information.

encouraging children to read

4. Choose the right books

Picking the right book can be like finding the perfect pair of shoes – it just fits. It’s about what sparks your child’s curiosity. Whether they’re into dragons or detectives, there’s a book out there that’ll light up their eyes.

Getting them involved in choosing their next read can make all the difference. A trip to the library or a browse through a bookstore can be an adventure in itself.

5. Encourage discussion and interaction

Chatting about a book is a golden chance to dive deeper into your child’s imagination. Why not turn it into a game? Ask them whacky questions about the story or what they’d do if they met their favourite character. It’s all about encouraging children to read and then share the joy.

encouraging children to read

6. Celebrate reading achievements

Who doesn’t love a bit of fanfare for a job well done? Setting up a reward system for hitting reading milestones can turn it into a thrilling quest. Imagine the beam on their faces when they earn a new book or a themed bash for finishing a story. 

 

In a nutshell, making reading a joy rather than a duty can light up a child’s world. From creating snug reading spots to celebrating each book finished, it’s all about fostering a deep love for stories. Let’s embrace these adventures in reading, turning every page into a journey of discovery for our little ones.

 

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.

 

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

Why early reading experiences are important for children (and how to provide opportunities)

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Early reading experiences are the foundation of lifelong learning and success. These first experiences with books not only spark imagination but also equip children with critical thinking and emotional intelligence. 

Here we will take a look at the vital role early reading plays in shaping the minds and futures of our children.

Why is early reading important?

Cognitive development

Early reading experiences are like a workout for the young brain. These experiences boost cognitive abilities, laying the foundation for critical thinking, problem-solving, and memory skills. As children navigate the twists and turns of narratives, they’re also constructing the mental pathways for complex thought.

early reading experiences

Language and communication skills

Beyond cognitive development, early literacy opens the door to rich language and effective communication. Immersing children in a world of words expands their vocabulary and improves their ability to express themselves. 

Social and emotional development

Shared early reading experiences weave the very fabric of social and emotional understanding. As children and caregivers read together, they embark on a journey of empathy, learning to walk in the shoes of different characters.

School readiness

The leap from the cosy lap of reading time to the structured environment of a classroom is made smoother by early literacy. Early reading experiences equip children with the toolkit they need to thrive in school, from staying engaged in classroom activities to following complex instructions. 

early reading experiences

Lifelong learning

Early literacy is just the prologue to a lifelong adventure in learning. It plants the seeds of curiosity and wonder, nurturing a love for reading that blossoms into an endless quest for knowledge. 

How to provide opportunities for early reading

Create a literacy-rich environment

Picture this: cosy reading nooks where stories come to life. Shelves brimming with books and every corner whispering tales waiting to be discovered. It’s about weaving literacy into the fabric of daily life.

early reading experiences

Read aloud

Reading aloud to children is akin to opening a treasure chest of words and wonders. As you bring characters and plots to life with the lilt of your voice, you’re not just entertaining; you’re laying the groundwork for robust listening and comprehension skills that echo far beyond the pages of any book.

Engage in conversations and storytelling

Turn every day into the extraordinary, where each question and tale shared becomes a stepping stone for language development and critical thinking. Encourage your little ones to ponder, question, and narrate their own stories. 

Provide access to books and resources

By ensuring access to a diverse array of books and literacy resources, we unlock endless possibilities for exploration and discovery. Libraries become treasure troves, bookstores turn into gateways to new worlds, and online platforms offer a universe of stories at their fingertips. 

Encourage writing and drawing

Early reading experiences are not just about the words we read but also about the ones we create. Through scribbles, tracing letters, and painting pictures, they’re weaving their narratives, connecting the dots between the language they hear and the stories they tell. 

early reading experiences

Early literacy is a key that unlocks potential, evens the playing field, and opens doors to endless possibilities.

To parents, caregivers, and educators: your role in this journey is invaluable. Through shared stories and united efforts, we can ensure every child holds the key to their own limitless story.

 

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.

 

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

Random Acts of Kindness Day: the Benefits for Families

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Random Acts of Kindness Day is a perfect time for us to spread some joy together. From brightening someone´s day to bringing you closer as a family, kindness is truly magical. Let’s look at how random acts of kindness for families can benefit everyone! 

Enhancing emotional wellbeing

Isn’t it amazing how a simple act of kindness can light up your day? Random acts of kindness for families aren’t just about making others smile; it’s a surefire way to boost your happiness too! 

When we’re kind to others, it’s like a happiness boomerang – it comes right back to us, reducing stress and making everyone feel good. Plus, these acts of kindness are great for our mental health, helping to ease anxiety and keep those pesky blues at bay. 

Strengthening family bonds

Whether it’s baking cookies for a neighbour or picking up litter in the park, these shared moments of generosity do more than just help others; they bring us closer together!

Acts of kindness open up new ways to chat, laugh, and connect, deepening our family bonds. They remind us that we’re a team, creating a warm sense of belonging and mutual respect.

random acts of kindness for families

Promoting empathy and compassion in children

When we dive into random acts of kindness for families, we’re setting the stage for our children to grow into truly empathetic and compassionate people. Kindness activities are like empathy workouts for kids, helping them to put themselves in others’ shoes and feel what they feel. 

Empathy is an essential skill —it’s the foundation for strong friendships, healthy relationships, and just being a good person all around. For more insights and practical ways to teach your child about kindness, check out our blog: How to Teach Your Child Kindness.

Encouraging positive behaviour and social skills

These moments teach kids about the joy of giving without expecting anything in return and the importance of being part of a community. And guess what? These lessons stick. The social skills and sense of responsibility kids learn from kindness play a huge role in their success at school, in future jobs, and in life in general. So, by fostering kindness, we’re giving our kids a head start on a path to a bright and positive future.

random acts of kindness for families

Building a foundation for selflessness

Getting into the habit of random acts of kindness with your family plants the seeds of altruism in your children that can grow throughout their lives. When kindness becomes a regular part of their world, it becomes second nature for them to think about others and lend a helping hand without a second thought.

Creating a positive home environment

When families make random acts of kindness a part of their routine, they’re building a home environment where support and positivity thrive. This kindness reduces squabbles and misunderstandings, making room for more peace and harmony. 

random acts of kindness for families

We’ve seen how random acts of kindness for families can do wonders, from making us happier and closer to teaching valuable life lessons. As Random Acts of Kindness Day draws near, let’s embrace it as a chance to bring more kindness into our lives and the world around us. Every small act counts, creating a ripple effect that can transform communities.

 

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.

 

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here:

Professional Love in Early Years Settings: Why it´s Essential

Posted on by schoolhouse

Ever heard of professional love in early years? It’s about the unique care we early years educators offer, distinct from parental love but equally important. In fact, it’s gaining recognition for its role in young children’s development and wellbeing, going beyond basic education to provide warmth and emotional support. In this article, we give you some insights into what professional love is and why it is so beneficial for children.

What is professional love?

Dr. Jools Page introduced the professional love in early years concept to describe the unique care educators provide, distinct from but complementary to parental love.

While parental love is, of course, deep and personal, professional love is more about providing a supportive, caring environment in a more educational setting.

Why is professional love important?

Emotional warmth and care are crucial for children to thrive, going way beyond just being nice to them. Professional love in early years education means really understanding what each child needs and building trusty relationships.

It’s not just about cuddles and kind words (though they’re important!). Professional love is about making children feel at home while keeping things professional. It’s about seeing them as whole people, where feeling good and safe is just as important as learning their ABCs.

Children who feel loved and secure are more curious, more eager to learn, and get along better with others. It’s all about being there for them in the right way, whether that’s with a comforting chat or just being by their side when they need it.

professional love in early years

How professional love in early years works in practice

For parents, understanding how professional love in early years is applied can be reassuring. Here are some ways we put it into action at our daycare:

  • We build trust with transparent communication: We regularly engage with families to build a foundation of trust. For example, we share insights about your child’s day, discuss developmental milestones, and are open about our caregiving approach.
  • We focus on a responsive caregiving approach: We tailor our interactions to meet the individual needs of each child. For example, using Dr. Page’s Triangle of Professional Love (ToPL) as a guide to understand and respond to the emotional and developmental needs of children, we can ensure our approach is both caring and professional.
  • We invest in our own professional development in emotional literacy: We invest in training for staff on understanding and managing our own emotions as well as recognising and responding to the emotions of children. This helps in nurturing emotional connections within professional boundaries.
  • We establish clear policies and guidelines: We develop and communicate clear guidelines on physical contact, confidentiality, and interpersonal interactions within the setting. This helps staff understand their roles with confidence and clarity.
  • We foster community and practice cultural sensitivity: We understand and respect the diverse backgrounds of the children in our care. Incorporating cultural sensitivity into our practice strengthens relationships with families and helps children feel valued and understood.

professional love in early years

The transformative power of professional love in early years

The impact of professional love in early years is profound, benefiting both children and educators. It creates a secure environment where children feel valued, boosting their eagerness to learn and explore.

Understanding professional love helps parents see the value in early years education, not just for academic learning but for emotional and social development too. It’s about ensuring every child feels supported, understood, and ready to take on the world.

 

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.

 

Looking for more ideas and inspiration? See more from us here: