Now that you have a family of your own, it makes sense that you would want to replicate this for your own children. After all, when they’re older, they will appreciate the work that you put into making this a truly special time of year.

If you’re looking for inspiration to do just that, here are five traditions you can start this time of year.

1. Create an advent tradition

Think of activities that you and your children can take part in every day on the run-up to Christmas. This can be practical tasks such as writing out your Christmas cards, or recreational activities such as making gingerbread houses or Christmas decorations.

2. Go for a Christmas walk

There are many families that go for a walk as part of their family Christmas tradition. Pick a day that suits you best, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day or Boxing Day, and set out on a short walk. This is a great way to help your children discover the beauty of nature, and you can even help them to collect twigs and rocks that they can use for crafts once you get home!

3. Decorate the tree while listening to Christmas songs

Kids love getting involved with Christmas decorating, and everyone loves a sing-along! So throw on some Christmas tunes while decorating. Family Christmas traditions don’t need to be expensive or extra special – just involve your kids in the things you do each year, and they will have fond memories of the time you spent together.

4. Make homemade crackers for the Christmas table

Not only is this a great money-saving hack, but it’s also a more sustainable option than buying Christmas crackers from the supermarket. Many Christmas crackers contain foil, glitter or plastic, which means they can’t be recycled!

Find out how to make your own Christmas crackers here.

5. Take a holiday trip to the local library

Let your children pick out a festive book and read it with them during December. Most of these books focus on the theme of giving and can help your kids to appreciate the spirit of Christmas. If you don’t have access to a library nearby, have a look at second-hand websites or download an audiobook.

Read: What are the Best Christmas Stories to Read at Bedtime?

Family Christmas traditions can be anything that you want them to be. They don’t need to cost much money or even take a lot of time! Just do something together that you all enjoy, and it will be special.

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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.

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

• How Much Do Children Really Need From Santa? The Benefits of Having Less
• How to have more happiness with less this Christmas
• 18 Creative Gift Ideas to Save You Money at Christmas
• Why You Should Use Kindness Elves This Christmas (Instead of the Elf on The Shelf)

The post Five family Christmas traditions to start this year appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

The good news is that quality time with your children doesn’t have to be grand or complicated—it’s about making the most of the moments you have together. Here are some simple ways to connect with your kids and be more in the moment.

1. Be present

When we’re surrounded by notifications and screens, being fully present can feel like a challenge. So try your best to put away the phone, turn off the TV, and really engage with your children, and show them that they matter. Try setting aside specific times of the day, like during meals or bedtime routines, to be device-free. 

2. Create simple rituals and routines

Whether it’s reading a bedtime story, having a morning chat over breakfast, or a cosy Friday night movie together, these small routines help build a sense of connection and security. Not only that, but these little rituals will also become cherished moments that your child will remember long after they’ve grown up. They’re a simple yet effective way to make quality time with your children a regular part of your day.

3. Get active together

One of the best ways to spend quality time with your children is by getting active together. Go for a walk, play a sport, or even have a spontaneous dance party in the living room. Physical activities not only boost your mood and health but also provide a great opportunity to bond and have fun as a family.

4. Encourage play and creativity

Children learn and express themselves through play, so why not join in? Whether it’s building with LEGO, drawing, or engaging in imaginative games, let your child take the lead. This unstructured, creative time allows you to connect on their level and shows them that you value their interests.

5. Cook or bake together

Getting into the kitchen is another fantastic way to spend quality time with your children. Cooking or baking together is not only a fun activity but also a great opportunity to teach life skills, from measuring and mixing to patience and teamwork. Plus, there’s a tasty reward at the end! Whether you’re making a simple sandwich or baking cookies, the focus is on being together and enjoying each other’s company.

6. Have one-on-one time

If you have more than one child, it’s important to carve out individual time with each of them. One-on-one moments, whether it’s a special outing, a quiet chat before bed, or a quick trip to the park, allow you to connect more deeply.

7. Practice mindful parenting

Mindful parenting is about being aware, listening actively, and responding to your child with intention. It’s not about being perfect but about being present. Simple practices like taking a few deep breaths when you’re feeling overwhelmed or making gentle eye contact can help you stay connected during challenging moments.

8. Embrace the little moments

Remember, quality time with your children doesn’t always come from planned activities. Often, the most memorable moments are the little ones—cuddles on the sofa, a shared laugh over a silly joke, or simply sitting quietly together. Embrace these spontaneous moments and savour them.

Carve out quality time with your children

Spending quality time with your children isn’t about being perfect or doing everything right. It’s about being there, in the moment, creating small pockets of joy and connection. Whether it’s through simple routines, playful activities, or just being present, the time you spend together matters more than you might realise. So, take a breath, put away the distractions, and cherish these moments—they’re the ones that truly count.

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 Create One-on-One Time With Each of Your Children
• Parent and child vision board- set goals for 2025 as a family
• How to build joy, connection, and calm into your daily family life
• Encouraging Independence in Children: Rewards and Daily Routines to Help Children Be confident

The post Ways to Spend Quality Time with Your Children: How to Be More in the Moment appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

The importance of mindfulness

Mindfulness is all about being present and aware of your thoughts and feelings without distraction. For both children and adults, it can work wonders by reducing anxiety, boosting focus, and improving emotional control.

Yoga for children can be a fantastic way to introduce mindfulness. This activity not only helps children stay calm and focused but also supports their overall mental and emotional well-being.

Yoga as a tool for mindfulness

Yoga is a fantastic way to promote mindfulness, combining physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. These elements work together to help children and adults focus on the present moment.

Specific techniques, like balance poses and visualisation through storytelling, make yoga for children engaging and effective. These activities not only enhance physical health but also teach children to stay calm and attentive, improving their overall mental well-being.

Benefits of mindfulness and yoga for children

Yoga and mindfulness help children:

• Manage their emotions, leading to better self-awareness and acceptance. This emotional regulation is crucial for their overall development.
• Concentrate and focus better, aiding their performance in everyday activities.
• Physically. Yoga enhances flexibility, strength, and coordination, supporting overall physical health.

Benefits of yoga and mindfulness for adults

Yoga and mindfulness aren’t just for our children, they can also benefit adults. Activities lead to:

• Stress reduction:
  • Helps reduce stress levels
  • Promotes relaxation and calmness
• Improved mental health:
  • Reduces symptoms of depression
  • Alleviates anxiety
• Physical wellbeing:
  • Increases flexibility
  • Builds strength
  • Enhances overall fitness

Integrating yoga and mindfulness into daily life

For children, parents and educators can integrate yoga and mindfulness into daily routines through simple practices. For example:

• Starting the day with morning stretches that include yoga for children can set a positive tone.
• Mindfulness breaks during school help children stay focused and calm.
• Bedtime yoga helps them unwind and get ready for a good night’s sleep.

Adults can benefit too!

• Scheduling yoga sessions before or after work can relieve stress and promote relaxation.
• Mindfulness exercises during breaks keep you centred and calm.
• Short breathing exercises throughout the day help maintain a sense of tranquillity amidst the busyness.

Embracing mindfulness and yoga for a balanced life

Early Years Wellbeing Week is a perfect opportunity to embrace these practices and incorporate them into daily life. By doing so, we embrace a more balanced and harmonious lifestyle for ourselves and our children.

As Sharon Salzberg wisely said, “Mindfulness isn’t difficult, we just need to remember to do it.” Embracing yoga and mindfulness can pave the way for long-term wellbeing and a more fulfilling life!

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 Recognise if Your Child is Stressed and What to Do
• 12 Fun Learning Activities Your Kids Can Do at Home
• Nurturing Wellbeing and Emotions: How to Help Your Children Identify and Manage Their Feelings
• Why it is Essential to Encourage a Growth Mindset in Your Children

The post Nurturing young minds with the power of yoga for children and adults appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

Here´s how.

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The importance of routine in encouraging independence

Establishing a routine is fundamental to encouraging independence in children. Why? Because regular schedules provide the necessary structure and predictability that´s essential for healthy development. 

For example, such routines:

• enhance confidence,
• reduce anxiety during transitions,
• and provide a sense of security.

And this allows children to confidently tackle new challenges.

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Age-appropriate chores to build independence

Incorporating age-appropriate chores into daily routines teaches responsibility and encourages independence from a young age. Here’s how chores can be tailored by age:

• Toddlers: Putting away toys, and placing dirty clothes in the laundry.
• Young Children: Making beds, helping to set the table.
• Older Children: Assisting in meal preparation, and managing personal hygiene.

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Effective use of reward charts to encourage independence

Reward charts are excellent tools for motivating children, linking specific tasks to rewards and creating a positive feedback loop. Examples include:

• Sticker charts for younger children to reward daily tasks.
• Point systems for older children, where points are exchanged for larger rewards.

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Daily routine charts to build structure

Routine charts help organise a child’s day, instilling structure and predictability. For example:

• Morning charts: Include tasks like making the bed and brushing teeth.
• Evening charts: Focus on preparing for the next day, such as packing school bags and getting ready for bed.
• Chore charts: Listing daily chores.

Read: Age Appropriate Chores for Children to Help Them Learn Valuable Life Skills

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Customising routines to encourage independence

As children grow, their routines should adapt to align with their developmental stages and changing needs. Flow-style routines offer flexibility, adjusting to daily demands while providing structure. For instance, bedtime might vary based on the day’s activities or the child’s tiredness levels.

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Encouraging independence through structured play and decision-making

Allowing children to play independently and make decisions about their activities encourages creativity and problem-solving skills. For example, encourage: 

• Independent playtime: to build creativity and self-sufficiency.
• Choice in activities: to enhance decision-making skills.
• Problem-solving tasks: to boost logical thinking.

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How parents can encourage independence in children

Encouraging independence in children means providing opportunities for children to make decisions and allowing them to understand the consequences. Therefore, parents should aim to be supportive guides rather than directors of their children’s daily activities.

For example, allowing a child to choose their outfit for the day teaches decision-making. Even if the result is a mismatched ensemble. Parents must sometimes step back and let children tackle challenges independently, stepping in only when necessary. This approach not only boosts a child’s confidence but also cultivates critical problem-solving skills as they learn from their successes and mistakes. 

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Empowering future generations

By encouraging daily decisions and problem-solving, we enhance children’s confidence and judgment, preparing them for future challenges.

These strategies collectively play a crucial role in encouraging independence in children, providing a foundation for them to thrive in all areas of life.

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:

• 5 Valuable Life Skills that Children Learn Through Age Appropriate Chores
• Age Appropriate Chores for Children to Help Them Learn Valuable Life Skills
• How to encourage your children to read for pleasure
• How Young Children Can Help in the Kitchen

The post Encouraging Independence in Children: Rewards and Daily Routines to Help Children Be confident appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

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.

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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.

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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. 
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. 
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:

• 5 Reasons Why Messy Play Is Important and Benefits Children
• The brain science of play
• Encouraging Independence in Children: Rewards and Daily Routines to Help Children Be confident
• Why Reading is So Important in the Early Years

The post How to let your child engage in risky play (without having a heart attack) appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

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..
• 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?

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.

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.

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:

• Fun Spring Activities to Do as a Family this Spring
• The Big Benefits of Outside Play for Nursery Children
• Gardening with children: tips for getting them involved and interested!
• 5 Ways to Make Happy Memories this Summer

The post Springtime learning and development: the benefits and 6 spring activities for kids appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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:

• Essential Easter Egg Hunt Tips for Parents
• Fun Spring Activities to Do as a Family this Spring
• The Big Benefits of Outside Play for Nursery Children
• Gardening with children: tips for getting them involved and interested!

The post Hop into Spring: Fun Easter Traditions for the Whole Family appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

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.

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. 

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.

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 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:

• Why Reading is So Important in the Early Years
• 9 Big Benefits of Reading to Your Child
• The 6 Best Potty Training Books (For Parents and Toddlers)
• Screen Free Activity Ideas To Do As A Family

The post Why early reading experiences are important for children (and how to provide opportunities) appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

1. Be Realistic

Juggling life’s demands means setting achievable goals and not trying to conquer the world every day. An important time-saving tip for families is about striking a balance, not reaching for the stars every time.

2. Prioritise Sleep

Remember, a well-rested parent is a productive one. Ensuring you get enough shut-eye isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity.

3. Aim For Nutritional Balance

A balanced diet is your secret weapon for sustained energy and efficiency. Healthy eating isn’t a trend, it’s a lifestyle that keeps the whole family running smoothly.

4. Plan Weekly

Mapping out your week can reduce those frantic, last-minute scrambles and bring a sense of calm to your busy schedule.

5. Learn to Delegate

Family teamwork makes the dream work. Look how you can share chores and responsibilities, one of the top time-saving tips for families that the whole family can participate in!

6. Prioritise Tasks

Learn to spot the urgent and important tasks in your daily whirlwind. Focus on what matters and put less critical things on the back burner.

7. Invest in Time-saving Services

From grocery delivery to cleaning services, consider smartly reallocating tasks to create more family time.

8. Maintain Work-life Boundaries

Draw a clear line between work and home life. It’s essential for your mental well-being and ensures you’re fully present where it counts.

9. Eliminate Distractions

A fantastic time-saving tip for families is to cut through the noise of daily life by minimising distractions. This boosts your focus and productivity, making every minute count.

10. Avoid the Perfection Trap

Ditch the pursuit of perfection. It’s a surefire route to stress and unrealistic expectations. Remember, good enough is often just that — good enough.

11. Practice Mindfulness

Embrace mindfulness and meditation to anchor your days. It’s about finding calm in the chaos, enhancing focus, and reducing stress.

12. Limit Multitasking

Multitasking might seem efficient, but it often leads to half-done tasks. Focus on one thing at a time for better results. It’s about quality, not just ticking boxes.

13. Identify and Reduce Time-wasters

Be vigilant about activities that eat up your time without adding value. Cut down on endless scrolling or unnecessary commitments to free up more moments for what truly matters.

14. Keep To-Do Lists

Stay on top of your game with to-do lists. They’re the roadmaps that guide you through your busy day, ensuring nothing important slips through the cracks.

15. Schedule ‘Me Time’

Never underestimate the power of a break. Prioritise ‘me time’ for your mental and physical well-being. It’s not selfish; it’s essential for rejuvenating and returning stronger in your parenting role. (Need help with this? Read: How Can a Busy Mum or Dad Practice Self-Care?)

Don´t just survive, thrive!

By embracing these time-saving tips for families, you’re not just surviving the day-to-day but thriving in it. Remember, effective time management isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most efficiently. So, take these strategies, apply them to your unique family dynamics, and watch as your days transform into a more balanced, fulfilling experience for you and your loved ones.

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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:

• How to Create a Daily Routine that Works for Your Family
• How to Develop a Peaceful Bedtime Routine

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What are the benefits of using kindness elves?

There are many reasons why you should use kindness elves this Christmas. They encourage good behaviour, promote helping others and set a positive example for your children. But the real magic lies in the lessons they teach us.

You see, despite our best intentions, telling our children that Santa won’t come if they’re naughty puts all of the focus on their negative behaviour. Instead, kindness elves teach us to focus on the positives.

By encouraging acts of kindness and rewarding selfless behaviour, kindness elves teach our children how good it feels to be generous! They also understand that we slip up every once in a while – they’re not here to judge our mistakes or report us to Santa. This removes any pressure or shame our children may feel during the run-up to Christmas.

At the heart of it, kindness elves teach our children that gifts aren’t something to be earned or bargained for – they are a token of someone’s love and appreciation.

How should you use your elves to encourage kindness?

Since your elves won’t be getting up to their usual mischief this year, it’s a good idea to re-introduce them to your children. Kindness elves often like to introduce themselves with a letter. This way, they can explain why they’ve come to stay and what your children can expect during their visit.

Kindness elves like to spread Christmas cheer with kind gestures. During their stay, they will leave notes and ideas for fun and thoughtful activities for your children. On some days, they will even leave special treats to reward good behaviour! You will still find them hiding around the house (bathing in the kitchen sink or climbing into your mixing bowl), but this year it will be to encourage acts of kindness – like doing the washing up or baking for a neighbour.

25 days of kindness

If your elves need some inspiration, we’ve come up with 25 ideas to help you spread some kindness this Christmas.

1. Smile at a stranger
2. Make someone else’s bed (as well as your own)
3. Give someone a hug
4. List 3 things you’re grateful for
5. Bake for a neighbour
6. Write someone a Christmas card
7. Donate old toys/clothes to charity
8. Do the washing up
9. Visit a relative
10. Help carry the shopping
11. Pay someone a compliment
12. Draw your friend a picture
13. Tell a family member you love them
14. Help cook the dinner
15. Write down your favourite things about your parents/siblings
16. Hold the door open for someone
17. Call a Grandparent
18. Pick up some litter
19. Leave a kind note for a friend or family member
20. Tidy your room
21. Give someone a high five
22. Help wrap up some Christmas presents
23. Invite someone new to play with you
24. Donate some food to your local food bank
25. Write a thank you letter to Santa

If you’re still wondering why you should use kindness elves this Christmas, we ask you this – what better way is there to spend the festive season than making a habit out of helping others? We hope we’ve inspired you to reinvent your Elf on the Shelf and to spread some extra kindness this Christmas season.

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 Much Do Children Really Need From Santa? The Benefits of Having Less
• How to have more happiness with less this Christmas
• 18 Creative Gift Ideas to Save You Money at Christmas

The post Why You Should Use Kindness Elves This Christmas (Instead of the Elf on The Shelf) appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.