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How Sleep Affects Early Childhood Development

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 18:38:35 GMT

Getting your child to sleep can sometimes seem impossible, especially when the sun is still shining and all they want to do is play. However, sleep is an essential part of early childhood development in that it gives their bodies a chance to recuperate and generate enough energy for the next day. Here’s a closer look at the benefits of sleep and toddler care techniques you can use to get your little one to relax.

Why Is Sleep Important for Early Childhood Development?

Sleep has a direct correlation with how your child acts when they wake up. Those who don’t get enough are left feeling tired and lethargic, which can be difficult to express when you’re not quite in tune with your emotions. This can lead to tantrums and an unwillingness to obey.

It also influences their brain’s ability to grasp new concepts. If they stay up late the night before, then they might find it difficult to process information during educational games and activities. This could result in a sense of frustration and cause them to retain a negative view on learning.

Another reason to ensure your child gets enough sleep is that it supports physical development. When they’re not expending energy in running around and playing, the body can ready itself for the next growth spurt by dispersing nutrients to the muscles, bones, and cells.

What Toddler Care Techniques Can Parents Use to Get Their Kids to Sleep?

The simplest step is to turn off all computers, televisions, and phone screens before they go to bed. The light acts as a stimulant and may cause them to remain awake for a longer period. Shutting everything down will give their body a chance to relax and prepare itself to sleep.

Stick to a routine as much as possible. While there might be random gatherings that run later than normal, getting your kids to bed at the same time every night will help to trigger their internal clock. Eventually, they’ll start to feel naturally tired and fall right asleep.

While you might be busy getting them to bed at night, Kids & Cribs Early Childhood Enrichment Center of Fort Thomas, KY, is ready to offer daytime support. Their infant and toddler care programs are tailored to create a fun learning environment where kids can engage with their surroundings and form lasting friendships. This childcare center also offers preschool programs that equip your little ones with the information they require. Call (859) 441-5888 to schedule a tour or visit their website for additional information on their services.

4 Ways to Help a Young Child Improve Their Social Skills

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 18:29:34 GMT

Social skills are universally important across all age groups, career paths, and cultures. Helping a child to develop social skills can help set them up for success throughout their lifetime. By enrolling them in day care or preschool, they will have many social opportunities to learn and hone their skills. Keep reading to understand the basics of teaching a child about social skills.

How to Help Young Kids Develop Social Skills

1. Practice

Since social skills can be learned and improved, practice is essential. For example, when teaching cooperation, have the child work as a team on a small project like clearing toys. By creating opportunities for them to exercise their skills, you can monitor their progress and find more teachable moments.

2. Read

Many children’s books have lessons built into them and kids love story time. While reading to them, intermittently stop to ask them social questions. To develop listening, you can ask them what they remember so far. For empathy, ask them about the characters’ feelings and how they would handle the situations presented.

3. Use Play

Play time can provide opportunities to engage in various social situations through make-believe. For instance, when teaching a child how to respect someone’s personal space, pretending that they’re in line at the grocery store can help them to understand the concept, practice doing it, and may help them remember next time they’re at the store.

4. Praise

Offering praise for appropriate behaviors is an effective method to encourage kids in developing their social skills. It is important to compliment them on a job well done outside of active social skills lessons as well as during them. Take a moment to tell them you’re proud when they graciously share a toy with another child without being told to.

If you’re looking for a day care for your child to expand their social circle, take them to Kids & Cribs Child Enrichment Center in Fort Thomas, KY. This family-owned and -operated child enrichment center seeks to enhance children's development by providing age-appropriate activities to stimulate kids’ success. They tailor their approach to the individual child’s personality to help nurture a sense of self-esteem. Visit them online to learn more about their approach and call them at (859) 441-5888 to schedule a facility tour.

4 Reasons Why Children Need to Hear the Word "No"

Thu, 03 Mar 2022 18:18:43 GMT

There is a misconception that showing love to a child means never denying their desires or wants. Understandably, every parent wants nothing more than to see their child happy. However, "no" is a powerful word that can be used to benefit your child's emotional and developmental health from preschool on. Here are four reasons your child can benefit from hearing "no."

Why Children Need to Hear "No"

1. Coping Skills

When a child is unable to attain something they want, they typically feel upset and disappointed. These emotions can be big, loud, and uncomfortable for both of you, but they allow your child to learn how to become more comfortable coping with disappointment. Their young lives will be filled with many no's and they need to regulate themselves when they receive alternative and nonpreferred responses.

2. Boundaries

From preschool to their first job, there will always be a teacher, coach, or supervisor they need to respect, follow, and listen to. Hearing "no" from a parent establishes that they are in charge.

When a parent negotiates with a child, the dynamic becomes clouded, leaving the child to believe that they can supersede adult instructions if they want to. Although it may not appear this way, the security a child feels when they know their parents are the authority is what helps them feel safe.

3. Learning to Wait

Instant gratification at a young age can lead to entitlement and unrealistic expectations outside of the home. In the adult world, we know there are countless aspects of delayed gratification that require time, energy, and money before the results we want to see can come to fruition. When we give a child everything they want, we deny them the opportunity to learn that valuable lesson.

4. Safety

An adult's number one responsibility is to keep a child safe. If a child wants to do something that could hurt themselves or others, it's a parent's job to say "no." Their boundless imaginations and innocence are a treasure, but it's up to you to help them understand when an action or activity is endangering their safety.

Every parent wants to find quality child care that focuses on their little ones' well-being. For parents in Fort Thomas, KY, that is Kids & Cribs Childhood Enrichment Center . Since 1984, this family-owned and -operated child care facility has provided quality solutions for infants and toddlers, along with classrooms for preschool and after-school child care. Qualified and professional staff help children engage using developmentally appropriate activities that enhance critical thinking, creativity, and imagination. To learn more about their services, visit them online or call (859) 441-5888 .

3 Tips for Helping a Shy Child Participate in School

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 18:08:45 GMT

Preschool and kindergarten are your child's first forays into formal learning. While some kids are excited about school and eager to participate, others are more reserved. And even though shyness in new situations is quite normal, it can hinder a child's involvement and engagement with the learning experience. Here are a few tips for helping your child participate more fully in school or preschool.

How to Help a Child Participate in School

1. Meet With the Teacher

Clear communication between parents and teachers will ensure that the child's needs and challenges are addressed in the most helpful, productive, and timely ways. Both parties can explore ideas together and get an idea of what works and what doesn't.

An attentive teacher can often give insight into the situations that cause shyness in school, and you can compare this to how the child behaves at home. Parents and teachers can then develop a plan that increases the child's comfort level in the classroom.

2. Encourage the Child to Share Their Interests

One way to bring some of the comfort level of home into a school setting is to encourage the child to share their personal interests with their classmates. For instance, if your child is into dinosaurs and has a collection of figures, have them bring a few in for show and tell. This will encourage them to open up and help them feel more at ease in class.

3. Praise Your Child's Accomplishments

By celebrating the steps your child is making, you will motivate them to continue their progress. Try not to focus only, or even primarily, on the challenges and roadblocks they're facing. When something doesn’t go according to plan, congratulate them on trying and putting in the effort. This might be just what a shy child needs to come into their own and more fully engage with their school or preschool classmates and teachers.

Kids & Cribs Child Enrichment Center provides a supportive and affirming preschool program for kids throughout Fort Thomas, KY, and Campbell County. Since 1984, they have been offering pre-kindergarten and infant and toddler care services. They are dedicated to nurturing each child's individuality, creativity, and sense of self-worth. Call (859) 441-5888 to enroll or visit them online to explore their services.

How Non-Screen Activities Affect Learning

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 16:43:02 GMT

Screen-based apps and games are popular among children of all ages and help keep kids engaged and occupied. But it's important to also incorporate plenty of non-screen activities into a child's day; by doing so, you are helping improve their learning skills. Below, learn about the link between non-screen activities and learning, as well as some fun tech-free ideas to include in your childcare routine.

Non-Screen Activities & Learning

Excessive screen time can hinder a child's ability to observe the world and experience the typical activities needed to learn. This can result in a sort of tunnel vision that negatively impacts their learning skills and overall development. Non-screen activities require a child to use their cognitive and memory skills in more direct ways, leading to better learning outcomes.

They also often involve interacting with others and face-to-face communication, improving interpersonal skills and building relationships. With a screen, it's much easier for a child to "check out" while they are focused on the device; non-screen activities demand attention and presence, enhancing mindful qualities that keep a child engaged and involved in their learning and academic success.

Non-Screen Activity Ideas

Putting together a game box, shelf, or cabinet will give a child a large resource of non-tech tools to boost their learning skills. Stock it with plenty of coloring books, board games, puzzles, and playing cards. During your daily childcare routine, encourage the child to explore their game box and try a fun, hands-on activity.

Most kids love a treasure hunt. Write out a series of clues, hide them around your home, and have your child figure out each one until they reach a small prize at the end. This will increase their problem-solving abilities, encourage teamwork and planning, and build their resilience, determination, and self-esteem.

When you need childcare services in the Fort Thomas, KY, or Campbell County area, trust Kids & Cribs Early Childhood Enrichment Center . Since 1984, they have been providing daycare for infants and toddlers, as well as a preschool program. They employ a developmentally appropriate curriculum designed to stimulate your child's intellectual growth. Call (859) 441-5888 to enroll or visit them online to browse their services.

4 Do's & Don'ts of Getting Kids to Eat Healthy Food

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 16:33:16 GMT

Healthy eating can provide physical, mental, and emotional benefits for toddlers and preschool kids. In addition to helping them maintain a healthy weight, consuming nutritious foods may give them more energy, improve their cognition, and put them in a better mood. However, it's important to use effective strategies while trying to help your young ones develop better eating habits. Here are some helpful do's and don'ts for encouraging them to become healthy eaters.

Do:

Allow kids to choose.

Small children can be notoriously picky eaters and veggies may not be their favorite category. However, kids often feel empowered when they get to choose their own healthy foods, which might make them feel more motivated to eat them. Allowing your young ones to select lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables for their lunches and dinners can increase their likelihood of consuming these items.

Pair healthy foods with favorites.

Children who are resistant to eating healthy foods may become more amenable to them when you incorporate them into items they already enjoy. If your young one loves spaghetti and meatballs, for example, you can add grated zucchini or carrots to the sauce and finely chopped broccoli to the meat.

You can also add handfuls of leafy greens such as kale or spinach to homemade juices and smoothies. The flavors of the fruits will overpower the vegetables to make these drinks more palatable, and the leafy greens can provide your young ones with a boost of dietary fiber.

Don't:

Put pressure on them.

If kids feel pressured to eat everything on their plate, they may feel even less inclined to consume healthy foods. When you serve your child healthy meals, allowing them to eat as much or as little as they want can help them try nutritious items at their own pace. This also permits them to honor their own internal fullness cues, which may prevent overeating.

Only give them to your kid.

Small children often mirror the behaviors of their parents. When you sit down for meals, they'll watch you take bites of vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins, which can show them that these foods are not only safe but delicious. You may also use appealing language to describe the foods as you eat them, such as "sweet" and "yum," to make your young ones feel more interested in trying them.

Support your child's healthy development by enrolling them in Kids & Cribs Child Enrichment Center. They offer infant and toddler care along with preschool programs to kids throughout Fort Thomas, KY. Call (859) 441-5888 to sign up your young ones for child care or preschool, and visit the website to learn more about their enriching curriculum.

3 Reasons to Bring Children to the Library

Fri, 24 Sep 2021 16:06:23 GMT

Your child’s formative years are some of the most important of their life. During this stage, it’s essential to expose them to subjects and experiences that pique their curiosity and encourage them to think deeply and ask questions. Taking them to the library is an easy and enjoyable way to help them grow in so many ways. Here are three reasons why this activity is so beneficial for your preschool or pre-kindergarten child.

Why Take Your Little One to the Library?

1. Expose Them to New Topics

Library shelves and racks are filled with books spanning all subjects. Kids can explore fiction stories that are completely new to them, read true stories about important historical figures, and find out about everything they want to know about dinosaurs. This fosters their enthusiasm about different topics and encourages them to learn more by asking questions. As they grow, this will serve them well in the classroom when they’re exposed to new subjects.

2. Help Them Become Responsible

For a child, getting a library card provides them with a deep sense of pride and excitement. Encourage them to make regular use of their card and explain to them that every time you visit the library, they will have a chance to check out the books they want. Remind them that having a card of their own is a big responsibility. Learning how to care for possessions is something that begins at a young age, and this is an easy way to encourage its importance.

3. Take Part in Fun Activities

Libraries truly engage preschool and pre-kindergarten students because they can sit in on weekly story hours. These enthusiastic “performers” often put on costumes or use puppets to tell stories in exciting and fresh ways that thrill your child. Many libraries also offer complimentary classes, during which they can learn everything from arts to crafts while spending quality time with other kids. That will build their communication skills while they learn something new at the same time.

If you seek a dependable child care center where your little one will thrive, turn to Kids & Cribs Child Enrichment Center . Proudly serving families throughout Fort Thomas, KY, and the rest of Campbell County, they provide comprehensive care and education for infants, toddlers, preschool, and pre-k students. Visit the website for more information about their curriculum, or call (859) 441-5888 to speak with a representative.

3 Surprising Ways Art Influences Early Childhood Development

Fri, 13 Aug 2021 15:52:53 GMT

It’s no secret that early childhood education with common core subjects, like mathematics and reading, is integral to early childhood development. However, children in preschool also experience long-term benefits from participating in art classes, including remarkable academic achievements. Here are some other ways your child can benefit from exploring art in preschool

How Art Benefits Early Childhood Development

1. Improved Fine Motor Skills

Drawing, building structures with popsicle sticks, painting, and other forms of arts and crafts require precise movements. Whether your child is holding a crayon or dipping their brush in paint, they are developing their fine motor skills and improving their agility. Motor skills are necessary for development in other areas of your child’s life, such as writing, zipping zippers, and other tasks that need controlled movements.

2. Enhanced Cognitive Development

Cognitive development in preschoolers refers to how the young child thinks and understands. Even when your child is having fun with art, they are still learning how to make connections, see patterns, and understand cause and effect.

For example, your child will learn that pressing a crayon firmly on a sheet of paper will produce a richer color than if they colored with a relaxed grip. Creating art will also teach your preschooler how to make a mental plan and follow through with it, a skill they will carry throughout adulthood.

3. Better Decision-Making Skills

By learning art, your young child will also learn how to make decisions and solve problems. The process of drawing or painting a picture requires your child to make decisions. They may decide which colors to use, how to color the picture, or when and how to add to it.

If they feel as though they messed up their artwork, they can use problem-solving skills to find ways to fix their perceived problem. Decision-making is a crucial skill that affects every aspect of their life. Through art, your little one will trigger both their creativity and critical-thinking skills.

If you’re searching for a quality preschool program that understands the value of art in early childhood development, turn to Kids & Cribs Early Childhood Enrichment Center . Located in Fort Thomas, KY, this child care facility has helped children develop a love of learning since 1984. Their professional staff ensures that all children participate in age-appropriate and engaging activities that enhance their critical-thinking skills in a fun, safe environment. Call (859) 441-5888 or visit them online to learn more about their facility and programs.

How Baking Helps Children Develop

Fri, 25 Jun 2021 15:41:46 GMT

When preparing your little one for day care at a child enrichment center, it's natural for parents to think about creating an educational and social foundation that sets your growing toddler up for success. One fun activity you can do with your child to prepare for preschool learning and to promote development is baking together. Here are a few benefits of spending time in the kitchen as a family.

4 Ways Baking With Your Child Is Beneficial

1. Practice Counting

When baking, you'll need to measure out ingredients in cups, tablespoons, and teaspoons. To make baking educational, talk your toddler through each measurement and help them count the number of teaspoons and tablespoons needed to create the recipe. This is a fantastic way to help your child master counting while enhancing their listening skills.

2. Expand Palate

Children can be incredibly picky eaters, which can make meal and snack times at day care a struggle. Through the process of baking and trying new recipes, whether it's zucchini bread, bran muffins, oat bars, granola, or peanut butter cookies, you'll expand your child's palate. This can help make them a more adventurous eater who enjoys various flavors.

3. Explore Creativity

Baking is a fun outlet for expression and creativity as well. From decorating cookies and frosting cupcakes to arranging pancake or pizza toppings, a baking project will allow your toddler to try their hand at artistic creations. Have plenty of different colored frostings, sprinkles, and toppings handy, so your child can create their very own edible masterpiece.

4. Boost Confidence

Going into day care, the right attitude can help your child develop meaningful friendships and the self-esteem to participate and stay engaged with child care providers. By reading through a recipe, measuring ingredients, patiently waiting for items to bake, decorating, and trying their creations, you'll give your child a sense of accomplishment that can lead to more confidence.

If you're looking for a day care center that believes in ongoing development in a supportive environment, Kids & Cribs Child Enrichment Center is right for your family. Situated in the heart of Fort Thomas, KY, this family-owned and operated child care center has served families throughout Campbell County since 1984. To schedule a tour of their facilities, call today at (859) 441-5888 . To learn more about their inclusive and encouraging approach that sets children up for classroom success, visit their website .

What's the Importance of Reading to Kids?

Thu, 20 May 2021 15:26:07 GMT

Children reach significant reading milestones during their early childhood education. Preschool kids typically can listen to longer books, read aloud, and retell stories their parents and teachers have read to them . Reading to your child can assist with their cognitive, emotional, and social development. Here's why you should read books to your young ones.

Why Should You Read to Your Children?

Reading to your children introduces them to new words and can help them build strong language skills. By the time they reach kindergarten and elementary school, they'll have a readiness for reading that allows them to work through longer and more complex books independently.

Reading aloud to kids can stimulate their imaginations, as they create mental pictures of characters, settings, and events. Books expose children to new ideas and ways of thinking, which can promote creativity and self-expression. Reading to your young ones may also introduce them to different cultures and broaden their understanding of the world.

You can form stronger bonds by reading to your young ones. During this one-on-one time, you may discuss the story together and share personal thoughts and feelings with one another. Sticking with a routine daily reading schedule can help your child build trust and feel closer to you.

What Books Should You Read to Preschoolers?

Preschoolers often need assistance with finding books they'll enjoy, so help them choose titles based on their interests. For instance, if they love animals or dinosaurs, they might enjoy Duck on a Tractor by David Shannon or Groovy Joe: Ice Cream and Dinosaurs by Eric Litwin.

If your young one needs interactive books to hold their attention, Are You My Cuddle Bunny? by Sandra Magsamen features soft and touchable bunny arms and ears on the cover, and What’s in My Train? by Linda Bleck allows kids to lift flaps and uncover surprises. If your child gravitates toward music, I Love Music: My First Sounds Book by Marion Billet includes push buttons that play sounds to introduce kids to various instruments.

Help your kids build strong reading skills and develop a lifelong love of books by enrolling them in Kids & Cribs Child Enrichment Center . This early childhood education center offers preschool programs along with infant and toddler care to clients throughout Fort Thomas, KY. Call (859) 441-5888 to sign up your kids for preschool, and visit the website to learn more about their enriching pre-kindergarten curriculum.