Category: All

Research is Only as Good as the Sense You Use to Apply It

You know the old saying, “If a tree falls in the woods and no one hears it….”  Well, similarly, we have to wonder, “If something is good for children but can’t be measured, is it still good for children?” Authors of a November 2011 article in Young Children examined the ways that research from the National Early… continue reading

Pinterest Preview: Smokey Bubbles, Jello Rolls, and Bouncy(ish) Balls

If you’re like me, you’ve discovered (and quickly become addicted to) this wonderful, mysterious new thing called Pinterest.  I often find myself pinning things, wondering how they’ll work out in my home with real kids, real quirks, and no real professional photographer.  So I thought I’d give that to you.  From time to time, I’ll… continue reading

Need More Persistence? Begin With Yourself.

When talking with parents and teachers concerning dealing with tough childhood actions, I often hear, ” I just require extra persistence.” It’s true. Perseverance and also point of view go a lengthy method in using favorable as well as effective advice. Yet it’s not something we can merely want upon ourselves. I’ve created before concerning… continue reading

The Silliness of Seuss

It’s obvious that I have actually long had a love for all points Seuss. As a child, as a teenager, as an instructor, as a mommy. I have simply always enjoyed those books! ( Actually, below’s an item of facts for you. In my senior high school it was custom to enhance the top of… continue reading

A Playful Interview, and a Mind in the Making

  I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Melitsa Avila as part of her weekly podcast for Raising Playful Tots.  I’d love for you to hop on over here and give it a listen.  We discuss socials skills, play, and sharing.  I’d love to hear your thoughts.  (Particularly on the sticky question about how to manage different parent… continue reading

Mind in the Making: Chapter 1

If you happened to miss the introduction, I’m launching a project.  I’ll be reading and discussing the book, Mind in the Making: The Seven Essential Life Skills Every Child Needs right along with all of you who’d like to join.  And here’s the latest perk: Ellen Galinsky has graciously offered to answer some of your questions at the… continue reading

A Healthy Dose of Risk

I recently sat in a training meeting where we were discussing the role of risk in childhood.  It’s kept me thinking ever since.  Where do we draw the line between healthy risk and serious danger?  I’ve often thought the line is where permanent damage can be done.  So, for example, I’ll stand back when my… continue reading

First Friday Q&A for March — Is it OK to Let Them Cry?

What a great question from Elexa, a caregiver in a toddler grouping. (And I’d like to say those stacks of books behind me are waiting to be shelved because I’ve been such a voracious reader lately, but they’re actually left out after being used as weights for some fantastic fort building….) (This video can also be… continue reading

Mind in the Making: Chapter 2

I came across a quote from Aristotle recently, that sums up Chapter 2 of Mind in the Making.  “It is the mark of an educated mind to entertain a thought without accepting it.” Being able to recognize, anticipate, respect, and even entertain different perspectives is key to being successful.  It’s how college students learn to… continue reading

Repost — Preschool Study Theme: Insects, Bugs, and Other Creepy Crawlies

I’m getting ready to launch a new project next week and I’m really excited to tell you all about it!  While I wrap up the loose ends, enjoy this repost from May of 2010. Bugs are just plain fascinating for kids!  Send your little ones out on a search for ladybugs, rolly-pollies, or ants and… continue reading