Mindfulness in the early childhood environment has been given its due attention recently as we come to understand more about how mindfulness benefits all young children. Mindfulness practices have been around for centuries, but integrating mindfulness into early childhood environments can empower our youth with crucial tools. According to ChildCare Education Institute, the industry leader for … [Read more...] about Mindfulness in the Early Childhood Environment
Parenting and Values
#GivingTuesday Teacher Challenge to Benefit Spark International Missions
Christmas season is a time for giving, and I’d like to extend a challenge to our readers to help in a way that multiplies blessings with tangible gifts that last for lifetimes. We are teachers, right?! We have classrooms and organizations; we help, as possible, within our own family’s budget. We purchase supplies for our classrooms when funding falls short. We have to decide where our personal … [Read more...] about #GivingTuesday Teacher Challenge to Benefit Spark International Missions
Dental Hygiene Activities for Preschoolers
February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. Dental hygiene is just as important an issue to teach children as washing their hands is. Our teeth are for life and dental health can play a major role in our overall health. Use these fun activities to promote good dental hygiene while having fun and practicing skills.Dental Hygiene Activities for Preschoolers! Disclosure: this post and … [Read more...] about Dental Hygiene Activities for Preschoolers
Super Kids Movement: Embrace Every Kid’s Light in the World!
It's almost August and millions of kids, teachers, and parents are preparing for back-to-school time. I'm an educator, but also a parent of six and a grandparent to five young girls. As a teacher, I strive to meet my students just where they are. Real connections with kids take time, energy, lots of patience, and great love. I've learned that passion and heartfelt care for kids go further toward … [Read more...] about Super Kids Movement: Embrace Every Kid’s Light in the World!
Kintsukuroi Art and Child Loss: Fusing a Broken Heart with Gold
The painting of the black and gold in the photo hangs in my office at home. My daughter, Christina, painted that canvas years ago. I've always thought it was unique, but I didn't really understand why she painted it or what she meant when she did, until recently. If you've read my book, Forever Namaste, you are aware that strange "coincidences" happen in my life after Christina died. I'm nudged or … [Read more...] about Kintsukuroi Art and Child Loss: Fusing a Broken Heart with Gold
Helping Kids Manage BIG Emotions in Preschool and Beyond!
Welcome to the Wednesday #TeachECE series. Each Wednesday throughout the year, we partner with other Early Childhood professionals to offer you tips, suggestions, and activities designed just for ECE. This week’s articles are centered around a BODY theme for use at home or in early childhood classrooms. Earlier this month, I had a chance to poll parents, childcare providers, and ECE … [Read more...] about Helping Kids Manage BIG Emotions in Preschool and Beyond!