Food, Fun, & Friends: Why Group Mealtime Matters for Child Development
At Milestones, mealtimes are about so much more than just eating. They are a cherished part of our day that offers children the opportunity to bond with their peers, explore new foods, and build important life skills. Group mealtime plays a vital role in the development of young children, supporting not only their physical growth but also their social and emotional wellbeing.
Promoting Positive Self-Esteem in Young Children
Superheroes in Disguise: How Early Childhood Educators Save the Day (and Your Sanity!)
When it comes to superheroes, most of us picture capes, masks, and superpowers. But what if we told you that some of the most powerful superheroes are the ones without capes – the ones who greet your child with a smile every morning at Milestones? Early childhood educators might not have x-ray vision or the ability to fly, but they possess extraordinary skills that help children grow, thrive, and reach their fullest potential. And in doing so, they provide invaluable support to parents too.
Maximising Your Child Care Subsidy: Tips for Families
Navigating the world of child care can be challenging, especially when it comes to understanding how to make the most of the Child Care Subsidy (CCS) in Australia. Whether you’re new to child care or looking to optimise your current situation, this guide is here to help. We’ll walk you through what the CCS is, how to calculate your entitlements, and some practical tips on maximising the benefits of your subsidy.
How to Help Children Develop School Readiness
Starting school is an important stage in your child’s life. Before they start though, a child should ideally have developed a range of basic skills and knowledge to help them transition smoothly into the school environment. These skills align with key developmental areas including emotional confidence, social connectivity, foundational learning. and physical health and wellbeing. Read on as we explain what each key development area includes, and how you can help children develop these skills.
How To Help Children Transition From One Activity To Another
There are many times during the day when children have to stop doing one activity and transition on to another. For example, leaving the playground to go home, or putting away toys before bed time. These changes or transitions can be hard for young children, and may result in tantrums or challenging behaviour. Read on as we share some effective strategies for managing transitions throughout the day that help children feel secure and ready to engage in the new activity.
The Importance of Parent Teacher Interviews in Early Education
Three times a year Milestones educators complete a Progress Record to assess your child’s learning progress in relation to key developmental areas. After completing a Progress Record, we work with families to form goals specific to the child’s leaning, and the best time to do this is at a Parent Teacher Interview. Read on as we explain the importance of a Parent Teacher Interview and what it entails in a child care or early education setting.
Exploring the World Through Sand: The Benefits of Sandpit Play for Toddlers
Toddlers are like little explorers, constantly curious about the world around them. One of the most captivating and beneficial play experiences for them is the humble sandpit. This simple play area filled with sand offers a myriad of developmental advantages that can significantly impact a child’s growth and learning. Let’s delve into the benefits of sandpit play for toddlers.
Splish Splash! The Surprising Benefits of Water Play for Toddlers
As parents and caregivers, we’re always on the lookout for activities that not only entertain but also help our little ones learn and grow. One such activity that often brings smiles and laughter is water play. Whether it’s playing with a water table, splashing in a kiddie pool, or enjoying bath time, water play offers a treasure trove of benefits for toddlers. Let’s dive into why this simple yet magical activity is so beneficial for our little ones, as well as some ideas for you to try at home.
Unleashing the Benefits of Messy Play: How it Enhances Toddler Development
Messy play isn’t just about creating a mess; it’s about fostering crucial aspects of a child’s development. From sensory exploration to cognitive growth, messy play opens doors to a world of learning and discovery for babies and toddlers. In this post, we’ll delve into the fascinating ways messy play contributes to development and why it’s an essential aspect of early childhood. We also share some ideas and tips for engaging in this type of play at home.