Sensory exploration, whether it be a quick and easy home activity or a planned childcare program is important to the growth and development of infant, toddler and preschool minds.

It's finally that time of year, the weather is warm and nice (not really yet but fingers crossed soon). Its time to dust off your barbeque grills and unpack your summer gears. Yes my friends, after 10 or so months of winter, summer is finally here! And with summer comes a crazy busy schedule filled with family functions, festivals, backyard pool parties, and vacations. While it all sounds amazing, it is important to keep the foods we are feeding our children consistently healthy and delicious (not just delicious!).

The environment being the “third teacher” in Reggio schools is something I really take to heart in my own classroom. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the term, it basically means that the classroom space, school and outdoor areas are also a teacher; they have a lot to say about how we view the children, what children are encouraged to do, and what we should value as a school community. So how should educators structure their “third teacher” so that it best facilitates learning, growth and exploration?

The concept of risky play has gained some popularity and traction in Ontario in the past few years, as research has continued to reveal the plethora of benefits it delivers. From increased conflict-resolution skills to a lower obesity rate, parents, educators and policy-makers are all slowly trying to incorporate various levels of risk into children’s active play - but what does it entail?

Don't worry! Biting is totally normal for infants and toddlers! Read for the inside scoop on why babies resort to biting and strategies to cope with their biting.

My absolute favorite thing about quality Reggio programs is the use of what we call legitimate materials - real items and materials that invite care, questioning, open-mindedness, and promote eventual expertise.