Handling Halloween

October 29, 2014

How do you feel about Halloween? Love it or hate it, it’s just around the corner. What’s the best way to address the holiday in a child care setting? The first thing to do is to talk to the children’s families. Some families may have a religious objection to holidays in general, and others may object to the emphasis on ghosts, goblins, and witches. Still other families may be making big plans for parties, trick-or-treating, and other celebrations and be counting on you to join the fun!

Supporting Superhero Play

October 22, 2014

cabin-fever-superheroes Early childhood educators know the importance of pretend play in children’s lives. The sociocultural theorist Lev Vygotsky purported that when children are engaged in pretend play, they demonstrate and act out skills they have learned, often before demonstrating those skills in other learning areas. It’s knowing this that brings about concern regarding superhero play: Just what are children processing when they engage in play that is physical or aggressive?

Avoiding Burnout

October 15, 2014

Whether you’re a director of a large child care center or a home child care provider, caring for young children can be a difficult task. To avoid burnout, it’s important for anyone taking care of children to find ways to relieve stress and find joy in what you do. Here is a list of suggestions to help you stay positive and refrain from burnout:

Fire Safety in Your Home

October 9, 2014

Fire Prevention Week takes place in October every year. Fire Prevention Week has been observed since 1922. It is sponsored by the National Fire Protection Association and its purpose is to educate the public about the importance of fire prevention. This is a perfect time for families to discuss fire safety issues and to prepare for fire emergencies. Discuss the following talking points with your family to reduce the risk of injury to all of you in the event of a fire.

Coping with Childhood Fears

October 1, 2014

Fears are normal in childhood; they develop for several reasons. Young children have a difficult time distinguishing between things that are real and things that are not. Add that to their vivid imaginations, what they have seen on TV and other media, and experiences that have caused them real fear (being lost, being hurt, etc.), and you have all the factors necessary for fears to develop.

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