When a screen enters the preschool day, the key question is not simply how long it stays on, but whether it adds meaningful learning that children could not gain as well another way. ChildCareEd’s Technology as a Classroom Tool course helps providers understand media’s role in developmen... Screen Time in Preschool: How Can Teachers Tell Whether Technology Supports Learning?
When a preschooler can point to “worried” but cannot yet explain why, a simple picture match can open the door to a meaningful conversation. Try the Brighter Futures: Social Emotional Development course to deepen your understanding of emotional development and responsive interactions, an... How Can Emotion Sorting Help Preschoolers Explain What Happened?
Positive guidance is not a collection of compliments; it is the steady work of helping children feel secure, understand expectations, and learn what to do when feelings run high. Explore the Viewing Guidance in a Positive Light course for focused professional learning on developmentally appropriate ... Why Does Positive Guidance Require More Than Praising Good Behavior?
A behavior that looks defiant or disruptive may be a young child’s best available way to communicate a need, feeling, or uncertainty. Before responding, a brief pause to observe, listen, and consider context can protect a child’s dignity and help you choose a more effective next step. Th... Before Correcting a Child’s Behavior, Have We Considered Their Perspective?
A bite can happen in seconds, but a clear record helps your team respond with care, communicate responsibly, and reduce the chance of another incident. The [Ouch! Biting & Hitting Hurts course] offers practical guidance on understanding biting and using positive guidance; for a focused approach ... What Should Child Care Teachers Document After a Biting Incident?
A classroom that feels scattered by noon can make transitions harder, obscure hazards, and leave educators spending precious time searching for materials. Small, predictable resets can restore order without interrupting meaningful play; the 5-Minute Classroom Reset Checklist offers a practical start... A Messy Classroom by Lunchtime? What Small Reset Habits Make a Difference?
When children follow experiment directions without asking why, they may miss the most valuable part: learning how evidence can change an idea. Help school-age learners investigate, record what they observe, and reflect on results with practical strategies—and build your own toolkit through Bas... How Can Child Care Providers Help School-Age Children Think Like Scientists?
How can you tell whether the routines, interactions, and learning experiences you plan are working as intended for children? A structured self-evaluation can help you recognize strengths, identify one practical area for growth, and turn everyday classroom moments into professional learning. ChildCar... How Can Early Childhood Teachers Evaluate Their Own Classroom Practices?
Professional goals can feel like one more form to complete—unless they lead to a noticeable difference in children’s daily experiences. The SMART Goals in Coaching & Mentoring course helps child care providers turn broad intentions into specific, measurable steps that support follow-... How Can You Set Professional Goals That Actually Improve Your Child Care Classroom?
Starting care with an allergy plan in place helps a child join the classroom with greater confidence and gives staff clear, usable guidance from day one. Explore Elijah’s Law: Allergy Awareness Training to build practical knowledge about preventing and responding to allergies; it can complemen... What Allergy Information Should Child Care Providers Gather Before a Child Starts?