The Montessori Method: Toys that Teach

The Montessori method was developed in the early 1900s by an Italian scholar and scientist named Dr. Maria Montessori. She created schools for children in Italy that fostered “rigorous, self-motivated growth for children and adolescents in all areas of their development—cognitive, emotional, social, and physical,” according to the American Montessori Society. When Dr. Montessori’s method

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Start off on the Right Foot: Don’t let Behavior Disrupt the School Year

It is back to school time, and for parents of children with a history of behavioral or academic issues, this could be a cause for concern. The Florida Department of Education follows a Multi-Tiered System of Supports that helps to identify students in need of academic or behavioral support. Teachers are to regularly assess students

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early education

The Importance of Early Childhood Education

Early childhood education is important as it supports brain development, fosters social and emotional growth, prepares children for school and promotes a lifelong love for learning. It lays the groundwork for academic success, enhances cognitive abilities and provides a nurturing environment where children can develop essential skills and relationships. Brain Development The time between birth

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We Won! Board Games Promote Health in Families

Are hectic holiday schedules and dark winter evenings putting your family in a funk? Well, dust off Candy Land, Monopoly and Sorry because a good old-fashioned family game night may be just what the doctor ordered. This kind of quality family time promotes family bonding, creates joyful memories and decreases the body’s stress response according

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Why Kid-Led Play Matters for Child Development

Key Takeaways Kid-driven play allows children to explore creativity, problem-solving and imagination without strict rules or adult control. Letting kids play freely, even using toys in unexpected ways can reduce frustration and encourage independent thinking. Over-directing play can limit creativity, while giving children control helps build confidence and emotional expression. Parents can support development by

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Preparing for Your Annual Homeschool Evaluation

An annual homeschool evaluation reviews your homeschooling program to ensure that it meets the requirements set by the state. Preparing for a yearly homeschool evaluation can be a stressful experience for both parents and students. However, with careful planning and organization, it can also be a rewarding opportunity to reflect on your homeschool journey and

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What You Need To Know About the 504 and IEP

IEP, 504, ESE, SLP, OT, PT, oh my! Special education is so full of acronyms that we can have an entire conversation that sounds like another language. It can be overwhelming for those new to special education, whether they’re parents, caregivers, students or educators. The best educators avoid using too many acronyms and explain the

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Featured Teacher: Ali Schackow

WHERE DO YOU TEACH? P.K. Yonge WHAT GRADE/AGE DO YOU TEACH? 1st Grade HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A TEACHER? This is my first year WHAT SUBJECT DO YOU TEACH? All subjects which include reading, math, writing, social studies and science. Why were you inspired to teach? I have always wanted to be a teacher since

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The Importance of Preschool

Did you know that having your child attend just one year of preschool before he starts kindergarten can set him up for greater success well into his elementary years and beyond? Even though play is the “work” of childhood, children attending a high-quality preschool are exposed to an environment filled with rich experiences, the opportunity

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Helping Your Child Cope With the Death of a Classmate

This is an article that I am both honored and saddened to write. As a school counselor I am privileged to enjoy the wonderful blessings of happy, carefree children on a daily basis. The tremendous joy that I feel when entering a classroom of children is hard to describe. The intense delight that children bring

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