by Katie Brazerol
Teacher-directed vs. child-directed art has long been a hot topic in early childhood. Teachers and providers usually understand the importance of keeping art projects age-appropriate and child-focused, but many parents pressure them to offer crafts that are cute, theme-related, and showcase-worthy. Some teachers avoid all mass-produced crafts while others struggle with freestyle art because some children do not stay engaged long without specific instruction.
Tips for celebrating Halloween, plus alternate ideas for Fall celebrations!
by Judy Mullican
Believe it or not, it’s time for Halloween again! I shared some thoughts on this last year, but here is an update with some new recipes and ideas! Some programs include Halloween and others don’t. How do you decide?
by Kelley Jilek
Arts and crafts help children experience and master a wide range of skills such as small motor control, eye-hand coordination, and concepts about color, size, shape, form, and texture. Art projects also help with language skills, sensory perception, independence, confidence, social skills, problem solving, and self-expression.
by Judy Mullican
Happy Father’s Day! Let’s give a cheer for all the fantastic fathers who make a difference in children’s lives! Research has shown time after time that children benefit from having loving fathers who are involved in their lives. You can read more about that here.
If you work in child care, you are probably planning some activities related to Father’s Day. Here are some different ways to celebrate Father’s Day or honor fathers at any time. You can adapt them as needed so they work well with your children.
