3 Questions to Ask that Promote Early Numeracy

February 14, 2024

Strategies to weave math concepts into well-child visits

Responding to Tough Questions

February 7, 2024

It's normal for children to ask questions and point out differences.

How do you help families manage separation anxiety?

January 31, 2024

Short and sweet goodbyes

Shared Emotional Experiences Beat Toys

January 23, 2024

While the "right" toys may be top of mind for parents in the first year of life, a new study provides greater evidence that shared emotional experiences between caregivers and infants have more lasting and significant effects on development.

The Value of Reading Aloud

January 17, 2024

Reading aloud is a great activity for kids of all ages. From birth, you can encourage families to find a few minutes every day to read to their children. Here’s why… The power of a caregiver’s voice. From birth, children find the voice of a loved caregiver to be uniquely soothing and comforting. The introduction of words. At all ages, children learn rich vocabulary from hearing words they don’t yet know. The chance to imagine. Research shows that hearing stories helps our brains to actually imagine ourselves having those experiences. Stories outside of their everyday lives can therefore help children to make new connections and stimulate curiosity and imagination. The opportunity to learn a new perspective. Understanding how others think and feel is a key benefit of reading. As children grow, studies show that reading books around feelings and perspectives can improve social relationships and conflict resolution skills.

4 Ways to Promote Parent-Child Connection

January 10, 2024

Play is an important way that children and parents can build connection, cognitive-social-emotional skills, and problem solving skills - but it can be hard for parents to know how to engage in play. From our friend and colleague - Dr. Prachi Shah, a developmental-behavioral pediatric specialist at the University of Michigan - here are 4 ways to challenge your families to find 5-10 minutes a day for “sunshine time” with their children. Choose toys that promote cooperative play Follow the child’s lead Narrate what the child is doing Mirror joy and delight This is a time of shared warmth and joy that helps children and caregivers delight in each other, and works at any age.

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