A FunShine Express Success story at Sunflower Academy in Brooklyn, NY
“I honestly can’t imagine not using FunShine Express. It is so organized and convenient, and that is powerful for an educator. It is just not possible to find the time to run around and buy all the materials, order special items, and make lesson plans a month in advance. FunShine really helps us.”
Myla Tarelkine
Too many educators are spending time outside of working hours on lesson planning.
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Emergent writing describes children’s first attempts at writing, and this can look like anything from scribbles, lines, and pictures, to letter-like shapes. Researchers note that children as young as two begin to imitate writing by drawing or making symbolic marks. As children progress in their learning, they gradually understand that writing serves the purpose of communicating. Early childhood educators play an important role in helping children develop their writing skills.
Sensory play involves activities that stimulate the senses: sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell. When children engage in sensory play, they are building connections in the brain and learning about the world around them. Take advantage of indoor winter days by offering the following sensory experiences:
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The early years of an infant’s and toddler’s life are a precious and critical time for development. Childcare providers play a crucial role in ensuring that these formative years are filled with enriching experiences that foster growth and well-being. In this post, we’ll explore strategies from infant and toddler development expert and director of educational content at FunShine Express, Teresa Narey, on how to create a nurturing environment that supports infant and toddler development in childcare settings.
Creating developmentally appropriate learning experiences for infants and toddlers involves three main pillars:
Our Early Learning and Development Continuum includes nine domains with goals for ages birth to five. Each month these concepts are embedded in new themes and daily lesson plans. Join us as we explore the domains and show you how FunShine curricula will build skills and make learning fun!
The joy and excitement children find in art can be infectious! Art is not only fun for children of all ages, it’s also important for children’s development. Art allows children to engage their senses in open-ended play and supports the development of cognitive skills and social-emotional skills. As children get older, art continues to provide opportunities for brain development, creativity, and self-expression.
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