Since striking the right balance is crucial for our children (and our own sanity!), this article explores some practical strategies to ensure your family benefits from technology without being overwhelmed by it.

1. Understand the impact of technology

Technology offers great benefits, like educational resources, connectivity with loved ones, and endless entertainment. With the right apps, learning becomes engaging, and staying in touch is simpler than ever.

However, overuse can reduce face-to-face interactions, lead to dependency, and impact mental health. It’s crucial to be aware of these risks to prevent technology from disrupting family life.

Simple actions to take:

• Teach responsible and purposeful technology use.
• Explain which apps are beneficial and why.
• Guide thoughtful choices about screen time.

2. Establish family guidelines

One of the best ways to manage technology use for families is by creating a plan. This plan should outline clear boundaries for screen time and the type of content that is appropriate. Having these guidelines helps ensure everyone in the family is on the same page.

Make sure your rules are suitable for the ages of your children and flexible enough to accommodate different situations, like holidays or remote learning periods.

3. Use parental controls

Implement parental controls on devices to manage what your children can access. This helps ensure they are only exposed to age-appropriate content and it limits their screen time.

4. Encourage positive role modelling

Setting a good example as parents or guardians is key, so you need to be aware of your own usage of technology. For example, show your children how to balance tech use by putting devices away during meals and family time. This helps reinforce the idea that not all moments need to be captured or interrupted by screens.

5. Practice open communication and education

Keep the conversation about technology ongoing. Talk openly about both the benefits and risks, making sure your children understand digital literacy and safety. This proactive approach helps them understand the digital world more confidently.

Our tip: Don’t wait for issues to arise! Discuss potential problems like cyberbullying and exposure to inappropriate content ahead of time. Equip your children with strategies to handle these situations, ensuring they feel safe and supported in their online interactions.

6. Promote offline activities

Encourage your family to engage in activities that don’t involve screens. Outdoor play, reading, and family board games are great alternatives to reduce technology use for families. These activities help build bonds and create memories without the need for technology.

7. Use technology purposefully

Make the most of technology by using educational apps and programs that enhance learning and creativity. These tools can make education fun and engaging, interactively providing valuable skills.

Another great use of technology is to stay connected with extended family and friends, especially when physical visits aren’t possible.

8. Regularly review and adjust

Regularly review and adjust your family’s technology use policies to keep them relevant. This ensures they meet your family’s changing needs and circumstances effectively.

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Balancing technology use for families is challenging – but trust us when we say that it is crucial for well-being. Not just for your children, but for the whole family and yourselves as well. If you implement these eight strategies that we’ve outlined above, you’ll soon see a happier, healthier, and more harmonious relationship with technology in your household. Not to mention, you’ll all spend so much more time with each other, making memories that last!

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:

• 9 Big Benefits of Reading to Your Child
• 12 Fun Learning Activities Your Kids Can Do at Home
• Age Appropriate Chores for Children to Help Them Learn Valuable Life Skills
• 5 Benefits of Sharing A Family Meal

The post 8 Strategies for Promoting Well-Balanced Technology Use for Families appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

With that being said, it’s essential to remember that taking a bit of time for ourselves isn’t a luxury—it’s vital for your overall well-being. Easier said than done, we know! But when we’re at our best, so are our families. Here are our top self-care ideas for busy mums and dads to help you take time for you.

1. Take Short Breaks

One of the best self-care ideas I’ve come across is the magic of short breaks. Taking just a few moments throughout the day can do wonders for our mental well-being. A 5-minute meditation to centre yourself, a brisk walk around the block to clear your head, or even just sitting down with a lovely cup of tea. These little pauses can recharge us. 

2. Incorporate Physical Activity

Some movement in our day is one of those self-care ideas that benefit both our minds and bodies. It doesn’t have to be a full-blown gym session. Dancing in the living room with the kids (bonus points for embarrassing dance moves!) or squeezing in a quick home workout while dinner’s in the oven can make a world of difference.

3. Have Mindful Moments

Mindfulness isn’t just a buzzword; it’s all about being present in the moment, and it’s a fantastic way to calm our busy minds. So, try to take a few minutes each day for some simple mindfulness exercises. It could be as straightforward as focused breathing, where you tune into each breath. Give it a go; you might be surprised at how centred it makes you feel.

4. Stay Connected

Staying connected with our loved ones is essential for our emotional well-being, but surprisingly, it’s one of those self-care ideas that’s often overlooked. So what do we mean by “staying connected”? It depends on what social activities you prefer.  Maybe you love to meet up with friends or having a virtual coffee catch up. Maybe it´s something simple like messaging family and friends or joining a parent support group where you can share the highs and lows of parenting. Remember, it’s the quality of our connections that counts, not the quantity.

5. Prioritise Sleep

Sleep isn’t just about resting our bodies; it’s about rejuvenating our minds. The restorative power of a good night’s sleep can genuinely work wonders on our mood and energy levels. If you’re struggling to catch those Zs, consider some self-care ideas focused on sleep. It may be time to establish a calming bedtime routine or try some relaxation techniques before hitting the pillow.

6. Indulge in a Hobby

Getting lost in a book, crafting something beautiful, or pottering about in the garden…no matter what you enjoy, find an activity that you love and make time for it each week. It’s not just about passing the time; it’s about reconnecting with yourself and finding joy in the little things.

7. Seek Support

It’s okay to ask for help, so please do if you feel you need it. Whether it’s leaning on family, confiding in friends, or seeking professional guidance, reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. There are plenty of resources out there for parents, from counselling services to parent coaching, there’s a wealth of support waiting for you.

Start prioritising your self-care

Let’s circle back to the heart of the matter: self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. For all the mums and dads out there, prioritising your well-being isn’t just about you. It’s about setting a positive example for your little ones and ensuring you’re at your best for them. After all, when you take care of yourself, the whole family benefits.

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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 Prioritise Self-Care as a Parent
• A Parent’s Guide to Switching Off After Work
• Tips for Parents – How to Live on a Budget with Children?
• How to Recognise if Your Child is Stressed and What to Do

The post How Can a Busy Mum or Dad Practice Self-Care? appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

From symptoms to treatments, we will cover each illness in detail – so you’re well prepared for the upcoming winter.

Coughs and colds

Without a doubt, the most common childhood illnesses are coughs and colds. Thankfully, they usually run their course within a week or two without any medical intervention.

Common symptoms include:

• Sneezing and coughing 
• Runny or blocked nose
• Sore throat 
• Headaches
• Mild fever 

Unfortunately, there’s little you can do to alleviate your child’s symptoms apart from offering them sugar-free paracetamol or ibuprofen and ensuring they’re well rested and hydrated. 

However, if your child develops additional symptoms like a persistent fever (38°C or above), a rash, or they experience difficulty breathing, you should contact your GP immediately. 

Earache and tonsillitis 

Much like the common cold, mild ear infections usually get better on their own. However, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes earache can be a symptom of tonsillitis. So let’s explore the difference.

Symptoms of a mild ear infection include:

• Irritability and discomfort
• Red ears
• Raised temperature 
• Possible fluid or discharge from the ear

However, children will tonsillitis will often experience earache plus other symptoms, including:

• Coughing 
• Sore throat
• High temperature 
• Swollen glands 
• Difficulty swallowing 

Again, these infections usually run their course within a few days, but you can always use ibuprofen or paracetamol to help with pain relief. However, if your child becomes increasingly uncomfortable or shows no sign of improvement within four days, we strongly suggest contacting your GP. 

Sickness and Diarrhoea 

Sickness and diarrhoea are arguably one of the most gruelling childhood illnesses for both parents and children. And unfortunately, they often get passed around schools and nurseries. So it’s best to prepare for every eventuality. 

If your child does contract a stomach bug, your priority is to keep them hydrated. So encourage them to drink whenever possible – you can also purchase rehydration sachets from the pharmacist. Vomiting should stop within a day or two. However, diarrhoea can last up to a week, so make sure to sanitise regularly to prevent the infection from spreading throughout your family. 

If your child has been severely unwell for over 24 hours or you notice signs of dehydration (dry mouth, dark yellow urine and fatigue), call 111 or contact your GP. 

Fevers

High temperatures are relatively common in young children. However, the trick is identifying whether the fever is the result of a mild viral infection or the symptom of a more severe illness. 

Symptoms of a mild fever will include:

• Feeling warm or hot to touch
• Flushed skin
• Sweating and shivering 
• A temperature between 37.5°C and 38°C

If your child shows signs of a fever, focus on keeping them hydrated. So encourage them to drink regularly, dress them in light clothes and offer them a wet flannel to cool them down. 

However, if your child develops a rash, stops eating, shows signs of dehydration or maintains a fever for five days, you should contact your GP. That way, they will be able to identify whether the infection is a sign of something more sinister. 

Trust your instincts 

Childhood illnesses are usually nothing to worry about (in fact, they’re great for strengthening your child’s immune system), but it’s better to err on the side of caution. So, if your child is ever unwell, remember to prioritise their hydration, ensure they get plenty of rest and offer them paracetamol or ibuprofen to relieve any pain. 

With that said, children may be resilient, but no one knows your child quite like you. So if you’re ever concerned about your child’s health, do not hesitate to call 111 or make an appointment with your GP.

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 or advice? See more from us here:

• Stay Well This Winter: How to Keep Your Kids Sniffle Free
• How to Spot if Your Baby is Unwell
• How to Know When to Visit the Doctor if Your Baby is Unwell

The post Common Childhood Illnesses: A Parent’s Guide appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

1. Understand that you can’t pour from an empty cup 

Before we dive into how to prioritise self-care as a parent, it’s important to discuss why self-care is so important.

The truth is, you cannot be the best version of yourself if you’re unhealthy and unhappy. So, if you want to be the best parent possible, you must start caring for yourself (as well as your child). Only then can you become your most loving, caring and attentive self. 

2. Nourish your body 

If you want to learn how to prioritise self-care as a parent, you need to start developing healthy habits. After all, self-care isn’t about long baths and bottles of wine – it’s about prioritising your mental and physical well-being each and every day. 

So which healthy habits do we recommend? 

Firstly, regular exercise. Whether you go for a walk or do a home workout, exercise can help boost your mental and physical health. 

Secondly, nourish your body with vitamins and minerals. It will help promote immunity and boost your energy levels. (Plus, leading by example is a great way to get your children to eat their veggies!)

Finally, prioritise your sleep. Good quality sleep is essential to your health and well-being. So aim to get as much sleep as possible! (Even if 8 hours is unattainable.)

3. Schedule time for yourself  

Scheduling time for yourself may sound selfish when you have a small child to look after. But it’s actually incredibly important for your mental and emotional well-being. So, don’t let guilt get in the way of your health! 

Instead, start filling your free time with things that make you feel good! Whether that means taking five minutes to phone a friend or twenty minutes to read before bed – the aim is to do something you enjoy every day. 

4. Socialise (often)

Parenting is an all-consuming endeavour. So it’s not uncommon for parents to feel lonely at times. 

Instead of suffering in silence, prioritise connecting with others! Whether you plan dinners, day trips or play dates, the key is to surround yourself with positive, supportive people. After all, who better to boost your mood and promote your well-being than your loved ones?

5. Set boundaries

Our final piece of advice for any parent trying to prioritise self-care is to begin implementing boundaries. Why? Because people-pleasing is a losing game that (inevitably) leads to burnout. 

So, instead of putting others first, start making decisions based on what is best for you and your child. For example, if you’re already stretched too thin at work, don’t feel obliged to take on additional responsibilities! Instead, respect your need for rest and politely decline the offer. 

Self-care = self-respect 

Learning how to prioritise self-care as a parent is not easy. But it is necessary. So don’t allow guilt to get in your way! Instead, respect your body, respect your mind and focus on becoming the best version of yourself. After all, the more you care for yourself, the more you can care for others.

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 or advice? See more from us here:

• Want a Better Work, Life and Home Balance? 6 Tips for Parents
• How to Build a Positive Parenting Connection
• Self-care for parents: Tips for Taking Care of Yourself During COVID-19 

The post How to Prioritise Self-Care as a Parent appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

Why is it so important to stay warm in winter?

It’s no secret that we become more susceptible to coughs, colds and respiratory viruses throughout the winter. But why is that? Well, there are a few reasons. 

Firstly, the cold air inhibits our body’s ability to ward off respiratory infections. Secondly, viruses can survive longer in cold, dry conditions – so they can circulate for longer. And thirdly, we spend a lot more time in close contact with others as we huddle indoors throughout the winter. As a result, infections can spread quickly throughout schools and nurseries. 

So, what can you do to keep your children warm and ward off infections this winter?

1. Wear lots of layers

Light layers are the perfect solution for keeping your children warm without making them uncomfortably hot. We recommend starting with vests and thermals underneath their ordinary clothes (especially if your child has to wear a uniform). Then you can focus on their outer layers. Thin raincoats are perfect for the wet, warmer weather. But as it gets colder, you may want to swap this out for a winter coat paired with a hat, scarf and gloves. 

(P.S. don’t forget footwear! Thicker socks and waterproof shoes are essential, but wellies are also a welcome addition for winter walks and outdoor activities.)

2. Stay active 

For many parents, the temptation is to keep their children inside and away from the cold. But outdoor activities are actually a fantastic way to promote your child’s health and development. So remember, whether you go for walks, visit your local park or sign them up for their favourite sport, physical activity is a great way of keeping your children warm. 

3. Enjoy warming drinks and dinners 

Did you know we burn more calories in the winter than in the summer? It’s true! Our bodies expend more energy to keep us warm. So make sure your family are fuelled for the winter with a selection of warming dinners and drinks. 

Soups and stews are healthy, nutritious meals perfect for keeping your children warm (and sneaking in their vegetables), whilst warm milk or hot chocolates are cosy treats packed full of calcium. 

4. Wash your hands 

Our final tip is less about keeping your children warm and more about ensuring they don’t catch a cold. 

To protect your children from catching or spreading infections, we strongly suggest you practise washing your hands together. If you can create a habit around handwashing before and after meals, after using the bathroom and after blowing their nose, your child has a far better chance of avoiding colds and viruses. So do your best to practise sanitisation this winter. 

Stay warm this winter

We all want to enjoy a happy and healthy winter. So, try out these tips for keeping your children warm during the cold months. And remember, staying warm doesn’t mean staying indoors. Get outside, enjoy the weather and blow the cobwebs away! Just make sure you’re wearing cosy clothing!

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 or advice? See more from us here:

• Surprising Reasons Why Outdoor Play is Healthy in Winter
• The Big Benefits of Outside Play for Nursery Children 
• 10 Fun Winter Activities To Do with Your Little Ones

The post Winter Warmers to Keep Your Children Toasty and Warm on Cold Days appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

What makes a healthy packed lunch?

Before we start sharing our packed lunch ideas, it’s important to explain what goes into a healthy packed lunch. 

According to the NHS, a balanced diet should include:

• Dairy products (or non-dairy alternatives) like milk and cheeses.
• Protein sources like meat, fish, pulses and beans. 
• Starchy foods like potatoes, bread or pasta.
• Fruits and vegetables. 

So, for each packed lunch you create, try and include (at least) one product from each food group, as this will ensure your child is always eating a well-balanced meal. 

10 ideas for healthy packed lunches

Our list includes a mixture of main meals, snacks and special treats. So feel free to try a few each lunchtime! Our hope is that you’ll find some suggestions that spark your child’s interest and encourage them to eat their lunches.  

1. Star-shaped sandwiches 

Sandwiches are a staple for a reason – they’re simple and delicious. But after a while, they can get a bit boring. So keep things interesting by cutting them into exciting shapes and experimenting with new fillings!

2. Fruit skewers

We’re all looking for ways to make fruit seem more exciting. So try popping some chopped fruit and berries onto a skewer. Sometimes all you need to do to spark your child’s interest is to make their packed lunches more interactive.

3. Pick ‘n’ mix

Don’t worry – our list of packed lunch ideas doesn’t include a bag full of sweets and sugar. Think of this as antipasti for kids. Fill their lunch box with their favourite fruits, vegetables, meats and cheeses and let them have at it!

4. Hummus

Hummus is a parent’s best friend. Naturally high in protein and made from chickpeas, this delicious dip is the perfect way to get your children to eat their legumes. Just pair it with sliced peppers, carrots or even crackers for a tasty lunchtime snack.

5. Popcorn

Looking for a healthy alternative to crisps? Popcorn is an amazing option! Sweet or salty, this high-fibre snack adds texture to any lunch box and is always a welcome treat.

6. Pasta pots

Pasta is one of our favourite packed lunch ideas because you can prepare it well in advance! Pair it with pesto, tomatoes and a source of protein for a well-balanced energy-boosting lunchtime meal.

7. Side salads

Sometimes our children need a bit of incentive to eat their vegetables. So rather than presenting them with plain veggies, try creating a salad with some protein and a dressing. It sounds so simple, but a drizzle of vinaigrette or a dollop of salsa can make a world of difference! 

8. Yummy yoghurts 

We couldn’t create a list of packed lunch ideas without including yoghurts. Why? Because they’re both delicious and high in calcium! Plus, there are so many flavours out there that you’re bound to find one the whole family enjoys!

9. Banana pancakes

Who says you can’t enjoy breakfast all day long? Simply mix one mashed banana with one egg and two tablespoons of flour before frying like a pancake. Allow to cool before packing with fresh fruit and yoghurt to dip, and you have a delicious lunchtime treat.

10. Chocolate-covered fruit

We all enjoy a treat now and then. But instead of packing a chocolate bar in your child’s lunchbox, why not dip their fruit in chocolate instead? Bananas, apples, strawberries and oranges all make for tasty chocolate-covered treats. (Plus, you can rest assured your child’s still getting plenty of vitamins and minerals.) 

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Pack some excitement inside their lunchbox

So there you have it – our 10 packed lunch ideas for parents. Whether you try one or all ten of our suggestions, we hope you find some exciting additions to include in your child’s lunch box!

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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:

• 8 Healthy Foods for a Growing Child
• 5 Benefits of Sharing a Family Meal
• How Young Children Can Help in the Kitchen

The post 10 Packed Lunch Ideas For Parents appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

Here are 5 strategies to help soothe your anxiety:

Take care of the logistics

There’s a lot to organise for your child’s first day of school. Transport, uniforms, lunches – the list goes on. So it’s understandable if you’re feeling stressed. The good news is that you can eliminate these anxieties by tackling your to-do list.

Start with the essentials (buying uniform, practising the school run) and continue until you feel content with your preparations. For example, if you’re worried your child won’t like their lunches, enquire about the school menu or practice preparing packed lunches they will enjoy.

Talk to their teacher

Often, our anxieties come from our fear of the unknown. So, it can help to have someone available to answer our questions and address our concerns. And who better to ask about preparing your child for starting school than their teacher?

Not only can they provide all the information you need, but meeting the person who will be caring for your child can be incredibly reassuring.

(With that said, try to save only the most specific questions for their school teacher. A quick Google search can usually address a lot of your queries.)

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Check in with your child

It’s natural to worry about our children. What if they don’t enjoy school? What if they struggle to make friends? However, it’s important that we don’t project our own worries and concerns onto them.

The best way to assess how your child is actually feeling is to talk to them! If they are unhappy or have any concerns, they will let you know. Otherwise, try your best not to worry! Instead, focus on preparing your child for starting school by encouraging excitement and discussing what to expect.

Seek support from your partner or other parents

Sometimes, all you need to do to alleviate your anxiety is to talk to someone who understands how you’re feeling. So don’t bottle it up. 

Share your concerns with friends, family members or even other school parents. Whether they can relate to how you’re feeling, offer some valuable advice or simply calm you down, a problem shared is always a problem halved.

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Develop coping strategies

Although the main source of your anxiety is about preparing your child for starting school, that doesn’t mean your anxiety will disappear once they’ve settled in. Therefore, it’s a good idea to develop coping strategies to help manage your stress regardless of the circumstances.

Whether you trial different breathing techniques, channel your energy into exercise or talk to a professional – the goal is to find something that makes you feel good.

You can’t pour from an empty cup

It’s so easy to get swept away when preparing your child for starting school. But you must remember to prepare yourself for this transition too! So surround yourself with supportive people, don’t be afraid to ask questions and, most importantly, remember to take care of yourself!

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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:

• 5 Tips for Parents Dealing With Separation Anxiety 
• How to Prepare Your Child (and Yourself) for School Separation Anxiety 
• 7 Common Nursery Worries and How to Overcome Them

The post Prepare For Starting School: A Guide for Anxious Parents appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

But what if we told you that family mealtimes could greatly benefit your child’s development? Would you still reserve them for special occasions?

Here are 5 benefits of sharing a family meal to make you reconsider makeshift mealtimes:

1. Better communication skills

Family meals are the perfect opportunity for children to practice their communication skills. Sitting around the dinner table, asking questions and listening to one another teaches your children how to retell stories, express their emotions and develop their vocabulary.

Mealtimes are also an ideal opportunity to teach your child about manners. For example, sharing, turn-taking and saying please and thank you are all habits that will benefit your child far beyond the dining table.

2. Teaches your children about food

Food is a crucial part of our everyday lives. So it only makes sense that we teach our children about it.

And what better opportunity is there to teach our children about food than when cooking a family meal?

By involving your children in the process of preparing a meal, they get to learn about:

• Where their food comes from
• What it takes to prepare a meal (cooking, cleaning, laying the table etc.)
• Basic nutrition

As a result, your children can develop a healthier relationship with food (and pick up some helpful habits along the way).

3. Boosts self-esteem

Setting aside an hour each day to share a family meal can significantly improve your child’s self-esteem. Why? Because you’re creating space in your schedule to focus entirely on them. As a result, you’re showing your child that you value and respect them – and that you genuinely want to hear about their day.

With that said, we understand that daily dinners aren’t always realistic – especially for our working parents. So for the busy bees amongst us, try sharing a bowl of cereal over breakfast instead!

4. Strengthens relationships

We all wish we had more quality time with our families. And yet, few of us take advantage of mealtimes.

By making a daily habit of sharing a family meal, you can create a tradition that will last a lifetime. Whether your child is two or twenty, you’re creating daily opportunities for your children to communicate with you and share their struggles. (Which is particularly important as they grow older and become more independent.)

In fact, studies show that 72% of children feel closer to their parents when they share a meal. So, if you want to strengthen your familial bond, we suggest you start prioritising family mealtimes.

5. Promotes routine

Here at Schoolhouse Daycare, we work hard to create daily routines that will support your child’s development – and mealtimes are a major part of that!

You see, consistent mealtimes can help to ground your child as they continue to grow and change. They also offer daily opportunities to improve their fine motor skills whilst enjoying delicious, nutritious homemade meals.

Start scheduling family dinners!

So there we have it – our top 5 benefits of sharing a family meal!

Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, we strongly recommend slotting family meals into your schedule. After all, the benefits aren’t exclusive to your children! So why not switch off the TV and start making precious memories during your family mealtimes?

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:

•  Creating a Daily Routine For Toddler At Nursery
• 8 Healthy Foods For Children
• Age Appropriate Chores for Children to Help Them Learn Valuable Life Skills

The post 5 Benefits of Sharing A Family Meal appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

So, without further ado, let’s dig in:

0-18 months

Although your infant may not be old enough to participate in the cooking process, there’s plenty you can do to make them feel involved.

Start by setting them up in a highchair so they can safely watch you work. Once they’re settled, offer them a handful of ingredients to touch, smell and play with. If you’re experimenting with baby-led weaning, you can also give them some small (soft) ingredients to taste!

The aim is to spark their interest by appealing to their senses. So don’t just talk through what you’re doing – allow your children to interact with ingredients and involve themselves in the process.

2-3 years

As they get a little older, your children can start getting involved with some safe, simple tasks. For example:

• Washing fruit and vegetables
• Finding ingredients in the fridge or cupboards
• Adding ingredients to bowls or mixtures

Although these are only small contributions, they are great examples of how young children can help in the kitchen. (Especially when they’re first finding their feet and establishing some independence!)

3-4 years

In most cases, by the age of 3 or 4, your child will be able to walk, talk and follow instructions. So they can certainly afford to be a bit more hands-on in the kitchen. Just remember, they’re still developing their fine motor skills at this point- so avoid any tasks that are too tricky/intricate. Instead, get them involved with:

• Mashing soft foods (i.e. potatoes, bananas)
• Measuring dry ingredients using cup measures or scales
• Stirring cool mixtures
• Making simple sandwiches/packed lunches

These tasks will allow your toddler to become actively involved in the cooking process without risking hurting themselves.

4-6 years

At ages 4-6, your child will have developed greater dexterity, meaning you can start introducing them to some more advanced cooking techniques. For instance:

• Chopping
• Spreading
• Folding
• Sieving

Whether you’re buttering toast or baking a birthday cake, these are all great examples of how young children can help in the kitchen. Just make sure you have plenty of plastic knives on hand!

Kitchen chores that don’t involve cooking

If cooking doesn’t interest your children (or you’re concerned about them injuring themselves), there are plenty of other ways they can help out in the kitchen. For example, you could ask them to help you lay the table, wipe down surfaces or wash up after dinner. That way, they can still contribute at mealtimes without causing chaos in the kitchen.

Find the fun in cooking

You don’t need to be a chef to teach your children about cooking. The only aim is to have fun and (hopefully) pass on some life-long skills. So what are you waiting for? Roll up your sleeves and start making some memories!

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 Encourage Your Little Ones to Be More Independent
•  Age Appropriate Chores for Children to Help Them Learn Valuable Life Skills
• 8 Healthy Foods for Children

The post How Young Children Can Help in the Kitchen appeared first on Schoolhouse Day Care.

‘Talking Hands’ is a charity that supports deaf children and their families by delivering activities and hosting events across Wales. Our goal is to raise enough money to supply their Rhymes and signs Mother and Toddler Group with lots of new BLS books and toys (along with other helpful resources).

Why we chose ‘Talking Hands’ as our Charity of the Year

At the heart of Schoolhouse are 5 Core values: Nurture, Inspire, Enjoy, Encourage and Learn.

These values are at the centre of all we do and all we stand for at Schoolhouse. We truly believe they are essential to creating a happy and healthy learning environment.

So, when we learnt about the incredible work ‘Talking Hands’ are doing to educate, inspire and encourage their members, we knew we wanted to support a charity whose values aligned with our own.

Our community mission also urges us to contribute to causes close to our hearts. So as huge Strictly Come Dancing fans, we felt inspired to learn Sign Language ourselves. With 446 children currently in our care, we want to ensure we’re doing all we can to encourage our children and young babies to communicate with us at every opportunity!

Our target is to raise £5000 throughout the year, both through our Snowdon challenge and the other exciting fundraising events!

If you wish to make a contribution to our Snowdon challenge, you can follow this link to our GoFundMe page. 

How our Snowdon challenge has helped our team!

Our tagline says, ‘Together we enjoy learning, encourage confidence and love life.‘ And we believe our fundraising efforts have really proven that! Already our Snowdon challenge has:

Brought our team closer together – working together to achieve a common goal has been really inspiring for us. Our Whatsapp group is filled with kind words and photos of our training walks. It has become a source of genuine support, positivity and motivation.

Made us happier and healthier – the preparation for this charity event has encouraged us all to become more active. We’ve been challenging ourselves to walk 10,000 steps a day and have even endured squat challenges! The additional exercise has really boosted our endorphins. As a result, we’ve all noticed a big improvement in our mental and physical well-being. 

Encouraged growth personally and professionally – the skills we have learnt throughout this process (from learning Sign Language to climbing mountains) have proven that we’re capable of achieving amazing things when we put our minds to it.

Created a sense of purpose – to know our efforts are helping a good cause has been incredibly motivating for us. It has encouraged us to give our best (even when we haven’t felt our best) and continue promoting positive change.

Support our Schoolhouse staff

Our charitable efforts have taught us that working together can not only help charities like ‘Talking Hands’, but they can also help us right here at Schoolhouse Daycare!

The lessons we’ve learnt both personally and professionally will stay close to our hearts long after our Snowdon challenge. So, however much we raise, we can smile and be proud, knowing our contribution has made a difference!

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 it is Essential to Encourage a Growth Mindset in Your Children
• 3 Easy Steps to Teach Your Child Kindness
• How to Teach Your Children about Love and Kindness

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