Hailey Southard

From Diapers to Undies: Preparing to Potty Train

Readiness is the key to success…and fewer messes Potty Training is a huge milestone within early childhood education…and oftentimes one of the most daunting. It is right up there with first steps, firsts words, and those first crayon murals on the living room wall. When you look at your toddler with their cute little voice, […]

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Upscaling Your Preschool Park Adventure

There’s nothing quite like a day at the park—the sun is shining, little feet are ready to run, and the day is open! While the park might not need improving, with a little effort it can become an excellent setting for early childhood education, packed with opportunities for bonding as well as learning. Additionally, it

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The Wonder of Naps

  Preschool-Aged Children and the All-Important Nap If you’ve ever tried reasoning with a overtired, cranky preschooler who is in need of a nap, you already know that naps aren’t just a luxury—they’re essential. During the early years of their development, a daily nap is more than a little rest break for children (and their

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Solo Play is A-Okay

  In today’s society it is hard to think that playing by yourself can be anything more than lonely. In reality, this independent play is a powerhouse of early development. Picture your child happily building a block tower alone, deep in thought while coloring, or even creating games of their own with stuffed animals. These

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Changing the Game of Morning Drop-Off

Easing the Stress of Drop-Off Mornings are hard. Add in tears, clingy hugs, and woeful “can’t I go to work with yooooou”’s and the morning suddenly went from hard to, well, harder. Navigating the emotional rollercoaster of daycare and preschool drop off is tough and if you’re in the throngs of a really difficult season

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Talking Toddlers: Speech and Language in Early Childhood

From those sweet first babbles and gurgles to the thrilling first use of your name, speech and language development in your little one is one of the most exciting and important parts of early childhood. Harvard University found that children who develop strong language skills in earlier years tend to perform better academically, are more

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Morning Routines with Children: A Stress Free Start

Consistent Morning Routines Make a Difference There’s nothing quite like hastily herding everyone out the door while running through the mental checklist of ‘to do’s’: “Has everyone eaten?” “Are shoes on feet?” “Have backpacks been packed and water bottles filled?”…the list goes on. Then to send children off to school and head to the next

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Snack Attack—Preschool Snacking

The Essential Nature of Snacks Snacks are life. Every parent of a young child or early childhood educator knows this. More than a means to survive a trip to the doctors office, a cart-confining grocery trip or a long car ride, snacks are an opportunity to further nourish your child. Preschoolers especially are very active

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Simple Activities for Connecting with Your Preschooler

In today’s fast-paced world, carving out quality time with your preschooler is difficult. However, engaging in simple yet meaningful activities together can go a long way in developing a strong bond and supporting your child’s development. Whether you are a parent, caregiver, or involved in childcare or early childhood education, below are some easy and

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Valentines Day Special: Preschooler Edition

Valentines Day provides a unique opportunity for lavishing on the main relationships in your life—and not just those of a romantic nature! Children yearn for the attention of their parents and taking some extra time to make ‘the day of love’ extra special for them can fill their hearts to overflowing. Need some inspiration on

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