At a glance, a preschooler who is intensely scribbling and doodling on a piece of paper may seem like an innocuous activity – the kind that is suitable for the…
Mindfulness in an early years environment
Mindfulness, in its simplest definition, is the ability to be aware of the present moment. It has been used as a coping strategy by many people in order to alleviate…
Letter from a male early childhood educator
“Thank goodness that you’re back,” my room partner said to me as I walked into the classroom, “There was a mouse! And we didn’t know what to do!” “I wouldn’t…
Diversity in an early years classroom
It used to be an accolade to be considered a “melting pot” or a “mosaic” when it comes to cultural diversity. However, it is now recognized that instead of a…
Teaching math skills in the early years
It can be easy to assume that numeracy and math skills are more developmentally appropriate for older children. While it’s true that rote mathematical learning can be effective for the…
Using shaving cream for engaging classroom activities
“IT’S SO FLUFFY!” a preschooler once said in my classroom with a delighted shriek. He was reacting to a shaving cream sensory bin – and what a relatable reaction it…
Early Childhood Leaders to Celebrate for Black History Month
As the world moves toward a more inclusive and equitable social trajectory, there is a greater understanding that Black history need not be relegated to the month of February. Still,…
Preschool Socio-Emotional Development Through Play
As an early childhood educator, there have been many times in which it seemed like children were the ones who taught me a lesson. One of these moments was a…
Preschool All About Me Activities
More than superheroes and more than episodes of Paw Patrol, a preschooler’s favorite topic to talk about is themselves. And why shouldn’t it be? They’re awesome! In addition however, is…
Fun Preschool Alphabet Activities
Many years ago, I was a first-hand witness to the value and power of play-based learning. While I was still a college student, the classroom in which I was doing…