“We need to help students and parents cherish and preserve the ethnic and cultural diversity that nourishes and strengthens this community – and this nation.” — Cesar Chavez Our diverse world… Did you know that Houston is the most diverse city in the entire country? At a recent training with preschool teachers in the Houston […]
Whether you have been a child care center director for many years, or many months, you have probably heard (or experienced) how hard it is to keep your staff turnover rate low. According to research, the turnover rate for ECE teachers is extremely high, averaging around 30% annually! (source here) Although some reasons for the […]
As a director (or teacher) in a child care center it is easy to get lost in the day to day tasks that have to be accomplished immediately, and you may notice that as you become increasingly overwhelmed and stressed that your staff morale will decrease at the same rate. What can we do to […]
In the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey, we will have kids in our care who need extra support. Here are five things that kids need after a crisis. Related: After Harvey: Caring for our Kids After a Crisis, Kids Need… Routine. As much as possible, maintain daily schedules of meals, naps and bedtime. Routines are comforting […]
Children don’t care how you sing, just that you sing! – Ann McKitrick Infants and children LOVE music! Whenever music starts playing or someone starts singing you are bound to see a child nodding their head, babbling along with it or even succumbing to full blown dance mode! Not only is music fun but studies have […]
As we begin a new school year, I know things are CRA-ZY! But don’t let the busyness of setting up your classroom and getting into new routines keep you from the most important part of your job…connecting with kids. The Student-Teacher Relationship is Powerful Children naturally attach with the adults in their lives. As one […]
In some places, it’s easy to know what to do. One example is at the airport, where you are guided from the moment you walk in the door. Signs point the way to security and ropes define the lines for regular travelers and those with TSA passes. Signs continue to guide you through the process […]
Reading readiness begins in infancy. Learn the key concepts babies and toddlers are ready to learn today and how to teach them! Learn More
Communication Begins at Birth The task of learning to communicate is supported by meaningful conversations between adults and children. Related: Conversations with Kids A child’s ability to communicate and speak with others begins at birth. Babies learn language as they interact with responsive parents and caregivers, and their ability to communicate continues to grow exponentially […]
Although it is the adult’s responsibility to prevent the spread of diseases, it’s also our job to educate children about being responsible for their own hygiene and wellness. Childcare providers have an unique opportunity to be able to show our students day-in and day-out how to keep clean and healthy. Here are a few fun […]