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When teaching preschoolers to read, there are multiple methods that can be used. The more popular one that is advocated for, and probably the one you learned by, is called phonics. That is, learning to ‘blend’ letter sounds to create complete words. This is opposed to the method of sight reading, which is based more on memorizing whole words at a time. We discussed the pros and cons of these … [Read more...] about 5 Simple ways to teach preschoolers phonics basics

Kids start learning to read at multiple ages, and at different paces. However, most would agree that learning letter names and phonics as early as possible is advised. You’ll notice children are like ‘sponges’ at this age - they seem to pick up new information easily, and excitedly, too. The sooner they learn reading principles, the more likely they’ll be ready for school when it’s time to enter … [Read more...] about What is the best way to teach word recognition to early childhood readers?

When running a daycare or preschool, it’s easy to get ‘lost’ in the day-to-day operations of teaching and caring for children - not to mention ensuring they have fun in a safe environment! Parents too, may find that caring for children and providing for their best interests can get overshadowed by the ‘busy-ness’ of life. It’s not that anyone in these positions is being neglectful, and it’s … [Read more...] about How early childhood educational consultants help teachers and parents

Note: below is a revised version, with updated information, of an article that was first published November 18, 2016. In British Columbia (B.C.), we have a child care ministry under The B.C. Ministry of Children and Family Development. Our company, Rainforest Learning Centre is a private, licensed daycare (and sometimes preschool) in North Vancouver, Coquitlam and Langley. Our services are … [Read more...] about What are government resources for early childhood care in B.C.? Starting in 2018, things have changed for the better

Injuries on playgrounds are a serious issue. According to the The Canadian Paediatric Society, 29,000 children up to age 15 go to the emergency room for playground injuries. While that’s not a staggering statistic, no parent wants their child to be part of that 29,000. Most of these injuries happen to kids aged 5 to 9, and most are from falling, which result in fractures. The good news is that … [Read more...] about How to teach playground safety at daycare

You know the feeling when you’re having a difficult time making a decision as a parent? You ask other parents for advice, or you go onto forums. But, the answers seem to come from all ends of the spectrum. No one seems to know what is ‘right.’ So, you read a parenting book. Then, that seems to contradict what another parenting book says. But all the while, you still don’t have a solution to … [Read more...] about What is a parenting coach and do I need one?