Temperament is a child’s natural way of reacting to people, places, and things. Knowing a child’s temperament helps teachers and directors make better plans for learning and care. This article explains what temperament looks like, why it matters in Minnesota programs, practical steps pro... How Does Temperament Affect How Minnesota Children Learn and Behave?
You work every day helping children learn, grow, and feel safe. This short guide is for child care providers and directors who want clear, practical ideas to build school readiness for the children in your care. We will explain the most important skills preschoolers need, easy classroom routines you... What skills do preschoolers need to be ready for school?
Starting school again can feel big for you, your staff, and the children. This article gives short, clear steps you can use to get ready, teach routines, help families, and keep the day calm and safe. For a compact set of routines, activity ideas, and professional-development suggestions tailored ... How can teachers make back-to-school easier for everyone?
Many New York child care programs worry about the "summer gap"—the learning and routine children lose when programs slow down, or families have different needs. This article gives simple, practical steps you can use all year to keep children active, safe, and learning. You will find ideas for ... How can New York providers bridge the summer gap with year-round learning?
What is Space Exploration Day and why does it matter for early childhood educators? Space Exploration Day (observed July 20) commemorates the Apollo 11 lunar landing and offers early childhood professionals a structured occasion to integrate inquiry-driven STEM, observational protocols, and... Space Exploration Day
Combining #sand, #space, #science, #sensory exploration, and #preschool play creates rich opportunities for curiosity, language development, motor growth, problem-solving, and early STEM learning. With thoughtfully selected materials and simple prompts, children can investigate how sand changes with... How can we explore sand, space, and science with young children in preschool settings?
Valentine-themed cooking and printables offer concrete learning moments for young children: sensory exploration, measuring and early math, vocabulary development, and social-emotional practice. If you're planning center activities, start with the principles taught in our Chef's in the Classroom cour... Valentine's Day Activities
Labor Day is a great chance to help children learn about work, teamwork, and gratitude while having fun. Plan one clear idea, keep materials simple, and pick activities children can repeat. Use a short circle time to explain why the day matters, then move to play, craft, or a quick outdoor game. Pl... Labor Day Activities for Kids: Crafts, Games, and Learning Ideas
Heat-wave days can be hard for children and staff. This short guide gives easy, low-prep indoor ideas and clear steps you can use today in your New York child care program. It focuses on staying cool, keeping kids hydrated, and giving teachers useful activities that support learning and calm. You ... What indoor activities help New York child care programs stay safe and happy during a heat wave?
National Ice Cream Day is a fun way to bring play, learning, and sweet memories into your child care center. Preschoolers love hands-on activities, and an ice cream theme is easy to connect to math, science, language, art, and social skills. For ready-to-use ideas and step-by-step center plans, s... National Ice Cream Day: Sweet Activities for Preschoolers