Unlocking Creativity and Expression: The Essential Role of Art in STEAM Education
Unlocking Creativity and Expression: The Essential Role of Art in STEAM Education
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
“Art is about letting go” – Susie Beghin
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, our mission is to create a nurturing and safe space where every child feels at home. We understand the significance of holistic education, especially during the formative years of early childhood. As young minds develop rapidly, we recognize the importance of providing the best learning environment to support their growth and development.
Childhood is a time of exploration, curiosity, and boundless creativity. That’s why we believe in child-initiated and teacher-supported learning experiences that encourage children to be active participants in their education. Our commitment to fostering a love of learning led us to develop the Four Pillars of Learning: Language & Literacy, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math), Physical Activity & Nutrition, and Mindful Awareness.
While traditional STEM education focuses on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math, we believe that incorporating the Arts (A) into the equation is vital. The Arts, in the context of STEAM, play a transformative role in nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in children.
Art is often misunderstood or underappreciated as a vital component of learning. Some may view art as an extra-curricular activity or mere creative play, not realizing its significant contributions to a child’s development. However, we firmly believe that art is not just about drawing or painting; it is about the creative process and fostering imagination.
For instance, art and creativity are fundamental to engineering. Engineers need to think outside the box, innovate, and find solutions to complex problems. Art allows children to think creatively, develop original ideas, and view challenges from various perspectives, which are essential skills for future engineers.
Art is also a process-oriented activity rather than a product-oriented one. It encourages children to explore their imagination, experiment with different materials, and express themselves freely. The act of creating art builds fine motor skills as children learn to hold crayons and paintbrushes. Through art, they learn to communicate their thoughts and emotions, developing their language and self-expression abilities.
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we emphasize the importance of providing opportunities for children to engage in art freely. There should be no pressure to create a specific end product; instead, we focus on allowing children to explore and experiment with materials independently. Art is about letting go, embracing creativity, and embracing the joy of the process itself.
There are countless art ideas that children can explore, from painting and drawing to molding and collage-making. We provide various materials, such as markers, child-safe scissors, paint, glue, feathers, and pompoms, to ignite children’s imagination and creativity. By providing open-ended materials, we empower children to choose how they want to participate and let their creativity flow.
We also integrate art with other STEAM components to create a multidimensional learning experience. For instance, while making an animal out of clay (art), we can build the animal’s home (engineering), learn about its characteristics (science), find pictures of the animal on the computer (technology), and measure its size (math). This interdisciplinary approach enhances children’s understanding and application of knowledge. You can find out more about how to incorporate art into STEAM in Susie’s book, Learn To Play.
Art is not just crafts; it goes beyond following instructions and specific outcomes. We emphasize the process of making art, encouraging children to explore different materials and techniques. For instance, instead of merely painting on paper, we might encourage children to paint with a straw on a cardboard box, adding multiple dimensions to the experience.
Incorporating the Arts into STEAM education allows us to nurture creativity, self-expression, and problem-solving skills in children. It sets the stage for future innovation and exploration, fostering a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we celebrate art as a vital aspect of our holistic approach to education, empowering children to become confident, creative, and compassionate individuals.
For more information on our Four Pillars of Learning, or to book a tour, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.
Announcing my new YouTube Channel
Announcing my new YouTube Channel – @Susie-Alphas
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
As an educator and a mother of two wonderful kids, I understand the challenges and joys of parenting firsthand. Over the years, I have encountered numerous questions from parents seeking guidance on a wide range of topics related to early childhood. Whether it’s dealing with a toddler’s constant “no,” managing separation anxiety or finding the right daycare, I have heard it all.
And my experience ultimately led me to write my book, ‘Learn To Play,’ where I used the knowledge I have gained as an ECE educator and mother to create our unique curriculum, The Four Pillars of Learning. My goal is to share this teaching method with parents and educators as a tool for learning at home and in the child care setting.
And now, I am adding a new way of sharing information with parents. I am thrilled to announce the launch of my new YouTube channel, @Susie-Alphas. I created this platform to address your burning questions and concerns about early childhood and to provide a go-to resource for reliable information. My hope for this endeavor is to help parents navigate the early years, and that’s precisely what I aim to do with this channel.
The information on early childhood is scattered across the internet, making it challenging for parents to find comprehensive and reliable answers to their specific questions. In launching this YouTube channel, I aim to create a focal point where parents can turn to for valuable insights and practical advice on various aspects of early childhood.
One of the driving forces behind @Susie-Alphas is to provide real answers to real questions from real parents. I encourage you to send in your questions, and each week, I will address a new question in a video. Your questions are what make this channel truly valuable, as they reflect the concerns and interests of parents just like you. If a question or concern arises frequently, you can expect a video on that topic because if it’s essential to you, it’s essential to me as well.
As you explore the @Susie-Alphas YouTube channel, you’ll also find links to my book, ‘Learn To Play,‘ which serves as a comprehensive guide for parents and caregivers. It delves deeper into various aspects of early childhood, providing you with more in-depth knowledge and understanding.
My aim is to inform, support, and empower parents on their journey through the early years. Some of the topics I plan to cover include mom guilt, building confidence in your child’s environment, managing toddler behaviour, handling separation anxiety, finding the right daycare, addressing biting behaviour, navigating potty training and nutrition.
However, the journey doesn’t end here. I want to hear from you! What else do you want to know about early childhood? Let me know your burning questions, and I’ll make sure to address them in upcoming videos.
I firmly believe that the @Susie-Alphas YouTube channel will allow parents to come together in this virtual space, creating a supportive community where we share similar experiences, challenges, and triumphs.
Don’t forget to subscribe to @Susie-Alphas on YouTube and hit the notification bell so you never miss a video. Together, let’s navigate the early years and create a strong and supportive community of parents who are ready to embrace the joys and challenges of parenting.
For more information on our 4 Pillars of Learning, or to book a tour, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.
Engineering in the Early Years
Four Pillars Of Learning – Pillar #2 – STEAM (Engineering edition)
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
My mission has always been to provide children with the best possible start in life and help them develop the critical skills they need to thrive.
When I began writing my book, ‘Learn To Play,’ my primary goal was to use the experiences and knowledge I have gained as an ECE educator and mother. It was also a way for me to document our daycare curriculum and make it accessible to parents everywhere!
The Four Pillars of Learning is a comprehensive program that addresses a child’s physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It comprises Language & Literacy, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math), Physical Activity & Nutrition, and Mindful Awareness.
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, these pillars are prominently displayed in every classroom across our three locations, and our goal is to ensure children have access to a well-rounded education while learning in a meaningful (and fun) way.
Pillar 2 – STEAM – E is for Engineering
One of the pivotal parts of STEAM is engineering, but when people hear the term ‘engineering,’ they often think it’s something that young children cannot do. However, I use the term intentionally because engineering is precisely what these children do. “Engineering is the process by which young children discover how things in their world are built, and how they work”.
One of the ways we teach engineering in our classrooms is through dedicated and specific areas for construction and building activities. In my last blog, we detailed the integral part that loose parts play in children using their creativity and imagination while learning.
And alongside loose parts, we incorporate materials such as blocks, which hold a special place in my heart. The reason I love blocks is that they are open-ended and allow children to create anything they desire, promoting imagination and creativity. In engineering in our classrooms, we have and use blocks of all sizes, which encourage stacking, sorting, connecting, and disconnecting.
When children engage in engineering activities, they often gravitate towards building tall towers. There is a sense of accomplishment in constructing something tall, even if it only lasts for a few seconds before being knocked down. Both the act of building and knocking down are significant learning experiences, as it allows children to explore concepts of balance, size, and structure as they figure out how to make their towers taller and more stable.
In engineering, we also shift our focus from the end product to the process itself. Instead of dictating what children should create, we provide them with materials and let them decide how to use them. The learning lies not in making a specific object but in gaining insights into size, balance, and cooperation. Engineering becomes a cooperative activity where children work together, negotiate, and problem-solve as they construct and interact with their creations.
The construction area of our classrooms also serves as a hub for social skill development. Children learn to collaborate with their peers, navigate conflicts, and share ideas. They face situations where they need to communicate their preferences and make decisions collectively. It’s an environment that fosters cooperation and encourages children to develop essential social and emotional skills.
The construction area is often our classrooms’ most popular and well-utilized space. Children are drawn to the joy of building and creating. It is a place where their imaginations come alive, they have the freedom to experiment, and they can engage in hands-on learning experiences. As a result, we allocate significant space to this area, recognizing its importance in promoting exploration, creativity, and problem-solving.
Through our focus on engineering, we strive to instill a sense of wonder and curiosity in children. We want them to understand that the process of building and creating is just as valuable as the end result. By embracing engineering in early childhood education, we provide children with opportunities to develop critical thinking skills, expand their imaginations, and foster cooperative relationships.
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we are committed to cultivating a love for learning and empowering children to become lifelong learners. Our Four Pillars of Learning, including the exploration of engineering through STEAM, form the foundation of our curriculum. Through these pillars, we create an environment where children can grow, explore, and discover their talents.
For more information on our 4 Pillars of Learning, or to book a tour, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.
Unlocking Creativity And Imagination Using Loose Parts
Unlocking Creativity And Imagination Using Loose Parts
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we believe in fostering a creative and imaginative environment for children, where learning extends beyond traditional toys and structured activities. That’s why we are reintroducing an exciting element to our curriculum—”loose parts”.
“Loose parts” are open-ended materials, which include items such as boxes, tubes, string, rocks, corks, paper clips, marbles and jar lids (just to name a few), have the potential to transform the way children engage with their surroundings, enhancing their critical thinking, problem-solving, and imaginative skills.
We have been inspired to reintroduce loose parts back into our curriculum after conducting some research that emphasized their profound impact on children’s learning and development.
We are in the process of building our loose parts repository, which involves collecting a diverse range of materials from various sources, including a recycling center in Mississauga. We are also encouraging parents to contribute loose parts that they have around the home, allowing us to create a wide array of materials that align with our curriculum and projects.
How we use loose parts in the classroom
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, our Four Pillars of Learning—Language/Literacy, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math), physical activity/nutrition, and mindful awareness—form the foundation of our curriculum.
And incorporating loose parts into our curriculum opens up a world of possibilities for children’s learning experiences. We strategically select loose parts based on their connection to our curriculum pillars. For example, natural loose parts align with our science activities, recycled materials find their place in art projects, and boxes become a part of our engineering explorations.
The introduction of loose parts sparks a sense of wonder and discovery in children. Unlike commercial toys with predefined functions, loose parts invite children to use their creativity and imagination. A simple box can instantly transform into a spaceship, a house, or a magical kingdom. This open-ended nature allows children to explore, experiment, and engage in critical thinking as they repurpose and reimagine these materials.
The benefits of using loose parts as part of our 4 Pillars Curriculum
All our educators recently attended a company training day focusing on “loose parts”. We have already begun incorporating loose parts into our activities, and the response from children has been incredible. For instance, when we introduced a box into a sensory bin, children were immediately drawn to it. They started exploring its potential, filling it with objects and experimenting with ways to interact with it. The teachers even created a tunnel with a roof using boxes, and the children had so much fun crawling and walking through it. These experiences exemplify how loose parts can transform the classroom environment and ignite children’s curiosity and engagement.
The beauty of loose parts lies in their ability to adapt and evolve. They provide endless opportunities for children to collaborate, problem-solve, and co-create with their peers and teachers.
By incorporating loose parts into our curriculum, we encourage children to think outside the box (literally!) and develop vital skills that go beyond academic knowledge. Loose parts stimulate their imagination, boost their confidence, and nurture their holistic development.
As we continue to expand our loose parts collection and incorporate them into our activities, we are excited to witness the transformative impact they will have on our children’s learning journeys. We invite parents to join us on this exciting adventure, contributing to our loose parts repository and embracing the endless possibilities that these materials offer.
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we are committed to providing an environment where children can explore, create, and grow, nurturing their potential to become anything they desire. So together, let’s celebrate the power of loose parts and their ability to unlock creativity, imagination, and critical thinking skills in young minds.
For more information on our 4 Pillars of Learning, or to book a tour, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.
Young Children and Technology
Young Children and Technology
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we recognize the world is an ever-changing place. And with technology continuing to evolve in leaps and bounds, our young children are even more technologically advanced than we could have ever imagined.
This is part of the reason why I wrote my book, ‘Learn To Play’. I wanted to share my knowledge and learnings that I have personally acquired during my time as an ECE educator and a mother. It is important that I share what I know about how children learn with other parents.
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we teach kids using our 4 Pillars of Learning curriculum in a way that is playful and fun. Our 4 Pillars of Learning include: Language & Literacy, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math), Physical Activity & Nutrition and Mindful Awareness. When I was developing the 4 Pillars, I wanted to ensure I created a program that meets a child’s needs from physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual well-being.
In this article, I want to focus on technology and how it can play a valuable role in young children’s development.
Technology (the second part of STEAM)
Technology is at the core of mostly everything we do nowadays. When we hear the word “technology,” the first thing that often comes to mind is screen time. However, at our daycare, technology is so much more than that. We embrace technology as a tool that enhances learning, fosters parent involvement, and creates exciting opportunities for children to explore the world around them.
Technology as a Resource Tool:
In our classrooms, we utilize iPads as resource tools, opening up a world of knowledge to young minds. For example, when learning about the solar system, we can access captivating videos that visually depict the planets, enabling us to teach complex concepts in an engaging and interactive manner. Technology becomes a catalyst for exploration and discovery, enhancing the learning experience for our children.
Connecting with Experts and Resources:
Through technology, we have access to a wealth of experts and resources. Whether it’s inviting guest speakers via video conferences or conducting virtual field trips, we can bring diverse perspectives and experiences directly into our classrooms. Technology enables us to expand our horizons and expose children to a vast array of knowledge and expertise.
Communication and Parent Involvement:
One of the most remarkable benefits of technology in our daycare is the ability to record and share children’s daily activities. Through our app, HiMama, we capture videos, photos, and data, documenting each child’s progress, meals, sleep patterns, bathroom breaks, and educational milestones. This instant and real-time information empowers parents to stay involved in their child’s daily life, creating a strong connection between the daycare and home.
Research and Exploration:
Technology serves as a gateway to endless knowledge. When children have questions or curiosities, we can use technology to conduct research together. For instance, if we want to delve into the fascinating world of polar bears, we can easily access factual information, statistics, and even watch videos about their habitats and behaviors. This interactive approach instills a love for learning and nurtures children’s natural curiosity.
Creativity and Play:
Technology also has a role in fostering creativity and imaginative play. We incorporate music into our classrooms, utilizing technology to play songs and create a lively atmosphere. Additionally, we encourage children to explore their creativity by using technology to record and produce their own little videos, allowing them to express themselves and share their experiences with others.
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, technology is not a mindless tool for entertainment; it is a purposeful and valuable asset that enriches the learning environment and strengthens the bond between parents, children, and educators.
We harness the power of technology to empower children, promote active learning, and create a sense of involvement and collaboration among parents. Technology opens doors to a world of knowledge, ensuring that our children are equipped with the skills and curiosity needed to thrive in the digital age.
By combining multiple aspects of STEAM every single day, our educators at Alpha’s Discovery Kids are able to teach multiple concepts in one lesson. And STEAM is a pivotal part of this learning.
For more information on our 4 Pillars of Learning, or to book a tour, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.
The Vital Role that Fathers Play in Child Development
The Vital Role that Fathers Play in Child Development
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
Father’s Day is just around the corner and at Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we recognize the vital role that fathers play in their children’s development and growth.
Fathers face unique challenges in today’s world, and those challenges can make it difficult to balance work and family responsibilities. Often juggling many demands on their time, our aim is to create a supportive and nurturing environment that makes it easier for fathers to be present and engaged in their children’s lives.
As a daycare provider, we have a unique viewpoint of some of these challenges father’s face. Everything from gender roles, financial pressure and mental health can create an atmosphere that makes raising a child no easy feat!
But we also see how amazingly strong and resilient fathers can be and sometimes a bit of support can make all the difference in the world.
So this Father’s Day, let’s give all the fathers out there a bit of extra support, love and encouragement. We conducted a survey and asked our dads what challenges they face. Based on our survey results, here are the top 2 challenges that fathers in our community are dealing with:
Balancing work and family
Balancing work and family is never easy, especially when you have a demanding career that requires long hours and travel, which can make it difficult to spend quality time with your family. And in today’s fast-paced and demanding world, finding equilibrium between professional obligations and personal life can be an ongoing struggle.
While many fathers want to be active participants in their children’s lives, they may feel pressure to conform to traditional gender roles that emphasize the importance of breadwinning and financial success. Juggling these commitments can leave fathers feeling torn between their desire to provide for their loved ones financially and their longing to spend quality time with their children.
Furthermore, societal expectations and traditional gender roles can exacerbate the challenge of work-life balance for fathers. While progress has been made in recognizing and appreciating the roles of both parents in raising a family, there are still lingering stereotypes that place the burden of household and child-rearing responsibilities primarily on mothers. Modern day fathers may face societal pressure and internal conflicts as they strive to challenge these norms and actively participate in their children’s lives.
The struggle to strike a balance between work and family can have profound effects on a father’s mental and emotional well-being. The constant juggling act can lead to feelings of guilt, stress, and exhaustion. Fathers may experience a constant internal battle between their professional aspirations and their desire to be fully present for their families. These challenges can take a toll on their overall happiness and sense of fulfillment.
Digital distractions:
Especially when it comes to our Millennial dads, they are part of the first generation to grow up with digital technology. While this technology has many benefits, it can also be a source of distraction, taking time away from family and parenting responsibilities.
It can be difficult for fathers to strike a healthy balance between their digital lives and their family responsibilities. The pressures of work, social obligations, and personal interests can easily spill over into family time, leading to fragmented attention and reduced quality interactions.
Fathers may find themselves physically present but mentally preoccupied, checking emails or scrolling through social media while missing out on important moments with their children.
Moreover, the pressure to be constantly connected can blur the boundaries between work and personal life. Many fathers often find themselves caught in a cycle of responding to work-related emails and messages during their supposed downtime. This constant connectivity can lead to increased stress, a diminished sense of relaxation, and a feeling of being perpetually on call, all of which can impede their ability to fully engage with their families.
The addictive nature of social media and the constant exposure to curated images of seemingly perfect lives can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and comparison. Many people feel this is an issue that only women face, but fathers may experience a sense of pressure to measure up to unrealistic expectations, both personally and professionally, which can contribute to stress, anxiety, and a diminished sense of self-worth.
Despite these challenges, fathers are finding ways to be present and engaged in their children’s lives, and are reshaping what it means to be a father in the 21st century. Many of our dads have expressed the desire to carve out time for their kids and families – they recognize that they bring an element of fun, love and patience to the family dynamic and definitely desire to spend more quality time with their kids.
This Father’s Day, we want to recognize and honor the important role that fathers play in our lives. We encourage unconditional support for dads and their unique perspectives and experiences to parenting, and we value the contributions that they make to their children’s lives.
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids Daycare, we are committed to supporting fathers and families in our community, and we want to express our thanks to all the fathers out there who work hard every day to make the world a better place for their children!
For more information on our 4 Pillars of Learning, or to book a tour, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.
4 Pillars Of Learning – Pillar #2 – STEAM (Science)
4 Pillars Of Learning – Pillar #2 – STEAM (Science)
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we aim to create a nurturing, safe space where every child feels they are in their home away from home.
And we know that the first six years of a child’s life are the most formative. These are the years when young brains develop rapidly, and children are like sponges, soaking up information and modelling behaviours from those around them.
That’s why providing the best learning environment possible is at the core of everything we do. We are committed to showing children how to develop the critical skills they need to succeed in life.
With each child’s unique strengths taken into account, we believe in child-initiated and teacher-supported learning experiences that foster their naturally inquisitive nature and cater to their individual needs.
We do this by focusing on our 4 Pillars of Learning: Language & Literacy, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math), Physical Activity & Nutrition and Mindful Awareness.
And as you walk through each of our Alpha’s Discovery Kids locations, you’ll experience our award-winning 4 Pillars Of Learning system echoed in each classroom.
SCIENCE (The first component of STEAM)
We infuse learning in everything we do and believe that the strength of our pillars is in combining learnings from multiple pillars.
Science activities are a fan favourite at Alpha’s Discovery Kids, as it often involves many things to do with nature.
Some of the fun ways we introduce and teach science include:
- Nature walks – a great way of combining physical activity, mindfulness, language and science, nature walks are a fantastic way of sparking children’s natural curiosity. With so many things in nature to see, children can experience a multi-sensory world of wonderment on every trip outside.
- Bringing nature inside – with so many aspects of nature for children to learn, we love bringing nature inside. This can include sensory bins filled with soil, mud painting and exploring the various properties of soil (from dry to wet). Kids also enjoy planting seeds inside pots which stay in the classroom until they are ready to be transplanted outside in the spring.
- Look beyond chemistry – a lot of people associate science with chemistry. And we absolutely enjoy doing some fun chemistry experiments in our classrooms. But there are so many different aspects of science to explore, including astronomy, biology and physics. We dabble in every area of science so that our children can explore the various disciplines of science.
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we find that children, in general, are budding explorers, and science is all about exploration and discovery. So we encourage each of our children to understand that as they explore something new in their world, they’re actually little scientists!
As we teach science in our classrooms, it’s done in an age-appropriate manner. For our toddlers, we teach science through several activities, focusing on sensory-oriented activities. We find that toddlers love exploring sensory bins, experimenting with water, how various items float, how sand flows through different sieves and exploring a wide variety of natural materials, including pine cones, soil, leaves, etc.
As we progress through the older ages, kids explore science by creating their own solar system, making their own planets and learning where each is located. We also begin to explore sources of energy, the differences between living and nonliving things, the different types of animals and plants, and their characteristics.
By making science fun, we can tap into a child’s natural desire to learn.
For more information on our 4 Pillars of Learning, or to book a tour, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.
Alpha’s Discovery Kids Celebrates Mother’s Day
Alpha’s Discovery Kids Celebrates Mother’s Day
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
Mother’s Day is a time for everyone here at Alpha’s Discovery Kids to celebrate moms and everything they do.
But this is also a day that can bring up a whole host of emotions for mothers. So often complex and challenging, motherhood isn’t always flowers and sunshine.
As a mom, I know the mix of happiness, joy, challenges and struggles that mothers face daily. Motherhood is a time to be cherished, but we also have to realize that many mothers face hardship and challenging times as well. Often juggling a career, home and kids, it can sometimes seem overwhelming to hold it all together.
And we never know what other moms are experiencing. So much of what we see and celebrate about Mother’s Day are the positive aspects. But many are experiencing Mother’s Day from a different lens. Emotions can run the gamut, with many moms suffering from fertility challenges and pregnancy issues or dealing with the experience of losing their own mom.
I want to share one message with all moms: you’re doing AMAZING.
Through the: Sleepless nights, Temper tantrums, Mess and disorganization, Learning curves, Exhaustion from overworking, Worry about whether your unborn child will be ok, Worry about whether your child is hitting the “milestones” they should, Unbearable and unimaginable pain of losing a child or Days of trying to explain to your child about the world we live in, you are doing a fantastic job.
As moms, I feel like we never truly “have it down pat .” Instead, most of us go through motherhood as trial and error, figuring it out as we go.
And that’s ok! Especially in today’s world, there is a seemingly constant comparison of how you stack up to other moms. With unrealistic and exceedingly high expectations, social media plays a huge part in feeling like you don’t measure up.
If you head onto any social media platform, you can be bombarded with images of “perfect” moms doing “perfect things .” Whether it’s moms creating perfect packed lunches with heart shaped designs, or birthday celebrations filled with beautiful hand made decorations and arts and crafts, or a perfect March Break vacation at a beautiful destination with perfectly behaved kids, it can foster feelings of failure for many moms.
But here is a gentle reminder that everything you see isn’t always reality. Motherhood isn’t a race. And it isn’t a competition. There is no such thing as “perfect” when it comes to being a mom. And by giving yourself grace and understanding, hopefully, you can realize that you are amazing just the way you are.
I encourage all mothers this Mother’s Day to let their partners or families know what it is you’d like to do to enjoy Mother’s Day. After all – this day is supposed to be about celebrating you!
So whether it’s spending time with family, a little bit of pampering (maybe a spa day), sleeping in, someone else taking over the chores (such as cooking and cleaning) or being showered with appreciation and love, make sure you express what it is that you’d like on this Mother’s Day.
And to celebrate our Alpha’s Discovery Kids Mothers, we have a few special Mother’s Day activities lined up at all our locations.
- Our Moms will receive a heartfelt gift from their little one(s).
- We will offer a Mommy and Me Activity Day on Friday, May 12th, where all our moms can come into the daycare and do a special activity with their child.
- We’ll also offer a little pampering with 10-minute chair massages for each mom.
From our entire Alpha’s Discovery Kids Family, we wish all of our mothers a Happy Mother’s Day!!
For more information about Alpha’s Discovery Kids, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.
Language and Literacy in the Early Years – Four Pillars of Learning
Language and Literacy in the Early Years – Four Pillars Of Learning – Pillar #1
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
When I sat down to write my book, Learn To Play, my goal was to share the knowledge and learnings that I have personally had during my time as an ECE educator and a mom.
My mission has always been to give children the best start in life, and at the core of this is showing children how to develop the critical skills they need to succeed in life.
Parents and Caregivers are the most important educators for our children, and our goal at Alpha’s Discovery Kids is to help enhance what parents are already doing at home by guiding children through each of our Four Pillars of Learning, allowing them to learn in a meaningful way.
When I developed the Four Pillars of Learning system, my focus was on developing a program that meets a child’s needs from physical, cognitive, social, emotional and spiritual well-being.
The Four Pillars of Learning consist of Language & Literacy, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math), Physical Activity & Nutrition and Mindful Awareness. These pillars are taught in every classroom in each of our 3 locations.
LANGUAGE & LITERACY – THE FOUNDATION OF ALL PILLARS
Just like the foundation of a house helps support the rest, Language & Literacy is the basis of all the other pillars. However, children cannot learn the other pillars without first learning communication, both spoken and written.
In the early years, especially at the toddler stage, we heavily focus on spoken language, as this is the basis for the eventual skill of reading and writing.
We understand how imperative helping little brains to form is, and we recognize that each stage of growth and development requires focused and unique techniques geared towards helping kids learn and grow to the best of their ability.
When it comes to language and literacy, at Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we understand that the more we speak with children and engage them in real conversation, the better the child will develop these skills.
By teaching language and literacy in a fun and intuitive way that is easy to understand and remember, kids get to be kids while learning! And we don’t leave the learning to just one part of our day – literacy is weaved into every aspect of our children’s day. From listening to language songs during meal times to narrating play, we make learning language part of everything we do.
All of our early childhood educators narrate and label throughout the day. We even label objects with their word (e.g. the word table is taped onto a table) so that sight word memory can be infused throughout the classroom.
And by narrating and providing a play-by-play of what they are doing or using, our teachers can help the children increase their vocabulary in an easy and fun way.
THE JOLLY PHONICS PROGRAM
Here at Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we use the award-winning Jolly Phonics program. This program has been incredibly successful in helping kids learn to read and write in their early years. The program teaches letter sounds instead of the alphabet, starting with the most common letter sounds (S, A, T, etc.).
The goal is to start getting kids familiar with letters they will most often see and use for reading and writing. And by using a play-based program that uses music and song to teach letter sounds and letter names, kids can then piece together the various sounds to make words.
The amazing part of this program is that when kids learn the letter sounds, even if they don’t know the names of the letters yet, they can piece the sounds together to create words. And by blending the sounds, they can start to build and formulate words and, eventually sentences!
We also understand that learning styles will vary from child to child. Our literacy programs work for any type of learner. If your child is an auditory learner, they’ll learn from the catchy songs. If they are visual learners, they’ll learn from the movements and actions. And if they are Kinesthetic, they’ll learn by body movements that accompany the letters.
All of our knowledge and nurturing staff have one goal – to keep your child safe while fostering their creativity in a warm, caring environment while allowing them to reach their full potential.
By being patient and using specific strategies to help build their language skills, it’s amazing to see the progress a child can make.
Our New Mississauga Location is located at 2632 Liruma Road, Mississauga, ON L5K 1Z1. To book a tour or for more information, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.
Easter Fun For Kids!
Easter Fun For Kids!
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
At Alpha’s Discovery Kids, we believe in making learning fun. Whether it’s learning to recognize sounds, how to self-regulate, or the many wonderful things our world has to offer, we are dedicated to creating an environment where kids can explore their creativity and be kids!
Easter is always a time our staff and children look forward to. After all, what’s not fun about bright, colourful artwork, egg hunts, cute bunnies and treats! And no matter what cultural background our children come from, we love being able to share different holidays and celebrations, which help to increase children’s cultural awareness.
With spring (and Easter) almost here, we’ve come up with some fun ways you and your family can enjoy this holiday.
OUTDOOR FUN
Spring can be tricky in terms of weather, but some outdoor fun is always a win, no matter the weather!
Here are some fun outdoor activities to try:
#1 – Easter bunny tag – make exercise fun by popping on a pair of bunny ears and playing a good ole game of bunny tag
#2 – Egg & spoon race – to make less of a mess, try painting plastic eggs (or go with a regular hard-boiled egg) and then hand each person a soup spoon (with the egg in it) while you see who can make it to the finish line first without dropping their egg
#3 – Visit a petting zoo or farm – animals are always a crowd favourite, and spring is a great time to visit a farm and hopefully spot a baby animal (or two!)
LANGUAGE & LITERACY
To help your child build on their literacy skills, try an EASTER EGG MATCH. Grab some plastic eggs, a sharpie and a basket or bowl.
Write each letter of the alphabet with the marker, writing the upper case letter on one half of the plastic egg and the lower case letter on the bottom half. Then, pull the eggs apart and put them in the basket or bowl.
The challenge is for your child to match the upper and lower case letters.
Note: You may have to help little hands fit the eggs back together!
ARTS & CRAFTS
A great way for kids to get creative is during arts and crafts time. Try these fun Easter-themed projects and let their imagination take them wherever they like!
Handprint Easter Cards – From lambs to chicks, your little artist can create an adorable card with their handprint! Start with some non-toxic black paint covering your child’s hand and help them press their hand onto a piece of construction paper.
Allow the paint to dry, and then spread some craft glue onto the palm of the hand, leaving the tips of the fingers with no glue. Help your child glue on cotton balls, followed by a googly eye on the thumb and attach a ribbon around the neck area
Easter egg roll & paint – Grab a long storage container, some plastic eggs, washable paint and a long sheet of craft or packing paper.
Tape down the packing paper to the bottom of the storage container, then add 3 colors of paint to the paper. Next, drop in 3 plastic eggs and let the rolling begin! Depending on how much your child shakes the bin will determine how much paint covers the paper.
SCIENCE EGG EXPERIMENT
For this Easter fun science experiment, you’ll need plastic easter eggs, egg carton, baking soda, vinegar, squirt bottles, food dye and a storage container or cookie sheet.
- Put half a plastic egg in each egg carton slot
- Put a couple of drops of food coloring in each egg half, followed by a spoonful of baking soda on top
- Fill your squirt bottle with vinegar and have your child squirt the vinegar into the egg half
Most kids get a kick out of seeing which colour of bubbles they’ll uncover as the vinegar mixes with the baking soda and food colouring.
Happy Easter!
From our Alpha’s Discovery Kids Family to yours, we hope you have a fun-filled Easter!
Our New Mississauga Location is located at 2632 Liruma Road, Mississauga, ON L5K 1Z1. To book a tour or for more information, please contact us at https://www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com/contact/ or call us at 905-823-8257.