Choosing toys starts with thinking about the play you want to make possible: building, pretending, investigating, or working together. Use the Classroom Supply Inventory Resource Guide to take stock of what you already have, then consider how those materials support children’s interests, abili... How Can You Choose Toys That Make the Play You Want Possible?
When a child moves between homes with different schedules, predictable classroom routines and respectful communication with caregivers can provide a steady point of connection. Offer the Home Routine Cards as an optional tool each household can arrange to reflect its own routines, helping the child ... How Can Child Care Providers Support a Child Whose Routines Differ Between Two Homes?
One thoughtful adjustment can help a child participate more fully in a classroom routine, and coaching can give a teacher the support to try it with confidence. Use the Daycare Teacher Goal-Setting & Action Plan Template to agree on a specific participation goal, choose a manageable first step, ... How Can You Coach a Teacher Through One Inclusive Classroom Change?
In Maryland, the Child Care Credential Program recognizes professionals who invest in ongoing learning, experience, and improvement in their practice. This voluntary credential complements state licensing by rewarding eligible staff and administrators for approved training, professional activity, an... Learn How To Become Credentialed
Mexican-themed activities can be a joyful way to help young learners explore art, music, food, and history while building skills like fine motor work, vocabulary, and teamwork. Use short, respectful lessons and invite family voices when possible. How do Mexican-themed activities help childr... Mexican-Themed Activities That Teach Culture and Creativity
When the last ten minutes before lunch fill with rushing, waiting, and repeated reminders, take a closer look at how cleanup, handwashing, and meal preparation fit together. Use the Classroom Schedule Templates: Plan Your Day with Ease to map out the sequence, then notice where children wait and whe... Why Do the Last Ten Minutes Before Lunch Keep Falling Apart?
Joining a classroom where friendships and routines are already established can feel daunting for a new child. A personalized Welcome Certificate for Children can offer a warm first greeting, followed by everyday invitations to play, patient introductions, and help learning the classroom routine. Let... How Can You Welcome a New Child After the Class Has Already Bonded?
A well-organized infant room helps a substitute find supplies quickly and focus on the babies in their care. Use the Infant Room Labels to mark consistent storage places for everyday essentials, then pair that setup with a brief orientation and clear information about each infant’s routines. P... How Can You Set Up an Infant Room So Substitutes Can Find What They Need?
When children keep returning to the same question in play, a thoughtfully chosen field trip can give them new things to notice, compare, and investigate. Start with their questions, consider destinations where they can explore them firsthand, and use the Field Trip Safety Checklist to organize safet... How Can You Choose a Field Trip That Extends What Children Are Already Investigating?
Your first day in a child care classroom can feel like a lot to take in—but preparation, clear expectations, and a supportive team can turn uncertainty into confidence. Start with ChildCareEd’s Child Care Orientation to build a foundation in supervision, professional conduct, and interac... What Should New Child Care Teachers Know Before Their First Day in the Classroom?