Tips for Keeping Kids Entertained When the Weather is Bad

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the amount of pep your children have, rest assured that you aren’t alone. Scientists have actually researched kids’ seemingly boundless energy and discovered that little ones have more energy than professional endurance athletes. Harnessing all that power in a productive fashion can be tough, especially when it’s raining or snowing outside.

With winter on the horizon, many parents are preparing to find ways to keep kids amused indoors. Imagine Nation Learning Center is dedicated to helping parents raise happy and healthy kids through educational yet fun activities. Read on for some expert tips on how to keep your children mentally engaged and physically active within the confines of the home this winter.

Look into music lessons

Which hobbies should you be encouraging your kids to explore? Ideally, opt for activities that will translate into subtle educational lessons and serve them as they get older. Music is a fantastic example. Kids can pick up an instrument and play it for a lifetime. Even if they don’t get serious about continuing their musical education, early-stage music lessons offer many tangible benefits. The American Psychological Association reveals that studies actually show that musical kids do better in school.

Why’s that? Kids learn the basics of rhythm and counting through music, which can improve their math skills, for instance. Music education is also a wonderful way to learn about other cultures. You can play music from different parts of the world for your little ones and then examine the country they come from. You can even use music to learn different languages. Looking at Spanish-language music videos is a great way to start learning, for example.

Get crafty with creative hobbies

Creative hobbies like coloring, puzzling, and beadwork can keep little ones engaged for hours. They are also educational. Kids can learn about colors while painting, for example, and practice their manual dexterity with beading. As a bonus, with the holidays on the horizon, you can have kids create gifts to give fellow friends and family members. This also teaches them about the spirit of giving and generosity.

Photography is another fun hobby that kids can pick up and continue as they get older. While everybody has a smartphone camera these days, giving your child a real “pro” tool will make them feel important and special. The best digital cameras for kids include a variety of options at various price points. Try the Veroyi Kids Camera for toddlers, which features extra large buttons, or the Kidizoom DUO Camera, which even comes with rudimentary editing software to create collages and more.

Give genealogy a go

Genealogy is a wonderful way to teach your children about your family’s own cultural background. You can use genealogy apps or websites to encourage kids to explore, instilling research skills that will serve them well later in their education. You can even combine genealogy and arts-and-crafts by creating your own family tree together. This guide shows you how it’s done. All you need is glue, colorful paper, and plenty of family photos.

Invest in safe indoor sports equipment

In addition to mental development, one important goal for growing kids is physical development and coordination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend kids get at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day. You can encourage safe indoors activity by investing in home-friendly sports equipment. An indoor punching bag is a great way to train muscles, endurance, and coordination.

Hopefully, this guide has given you some ideas for keeping your little ones entertained indoors. With a bit of creativity, you can ensure your kids have a safe and productive winter, without getting bored in the house. Meanwhile, you can rest easy knowing that they are having fun while also learning new life skills.

 

 

Article by: Carrie Spencer of thespenceradventures.net

 

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4 Tips to Help Kids Do a Digital Detox

Wherever we are and wherever we go, there’s no escaping the digital world. We live in an age of modern technology, one that is consumed by the internet, laptops, cellphones, tablets and other types of screens. While these developments have made our lives amazing in many ways, too much time spent staring at screens can be detrimental to our health and well-being, especially that of our kids. Hence the need for a “digital detox” from time to time.

What does digital detox mean? 

Digital detox is when a person unplugs and refrains from using electronic gadgets and other devices connected to the internet. Doing so gives us an opportunity to have real interactions with others and counteract our “addiction” to screens. Since we are living in a world dominated by the internet, our kids spend a significant amount of their time clicking and tapping while glued to their devices. It can be hard to strike a healthy balance between the use of technology and taking healthy breaks from staring at our screens.

It’s important for us, as parents,  to make sure our children’s development isn’t hampered by spending excessive time glued to their screens.  Here are some tips to help your kids do a digital detox.

Lead by example

Young kids look up to their parents in all aspects of life. They observe our words, actions and behaviors. Therefore, the best way to teach our children  anything is to model important actions and habits ourselves. Lead by example instead of merely talking about it.

When emphasizing the importance of taking a break from electronic devices, it’s imperative that children see their parents doing the same. It’s hypocritical for kids to see us incessantly scrolling through our phones or staying up until all hours watching Netflix if we expect them to make similar changes to their lifestyle. If you don’t lead by example, your discussion about a digital detox will fall on deaf ears.

Create phone-free zones

It’s important to limit the use of electronic devices in some areas of your home. Establish “technology-free zones” in your home. One good example is the dining area. Phones and gadgets shouldn’t be allowed at the dining table. Meal time is meant to be family time. Coming together during a meal is a perfect opportunity for bonding and having meaningful and fun conversation. It shouldn’t be a time for any family members to stare at their phones or play online games.

Similarly, the bedroom should also be a screen-free space. Growing kids need an adequate amount of sleep for their healthy growth and development. Don’t allow your children to take their phones or tablets with them to bed. Not only will this help ensure that their sleep isn’t interrupted, but it will also help you make sure their online activities are closely monitored.

Plan a family getaway

Another fun way to help curb your child’s obsession with screen time is to go on a family getaway. Think about planning a vacation or some family activities that do not involve the use of screens. Plan a trip to the zoo or museum, or take your child to an art class. You can also spend the weekend at a nearby beach. or go camping and enjoy nature. There are plenty of activities you can all enjoy without the use of technology. The more children get immersed in nature and outdoor fun, the more they’ll realize that there’s so much more to life than what they see and experience at the tips of their fingers on an electronic gadget. 

Spend more time with your kids

One of the reasons why kids may resort to spending excessive time on their gadgets is that their parents are too busy to spend time with them. Nothing beats spending adequate quality time with your child. Make it a point to spend more time together by playing with them, connecting and bonding. Help your child feel that digital devices aren’t the only source of fun and entertainment, because it’s a lot more fun to do things with you.

For example, you can invite your kids to help you cook and prepare meals. If your child enjoys books, you can find a cozy spot in your home where you can enjoy reading together. Be creative. There are plenty of exciting and meaningful activities that can take your child’s attention from digital devices. 

Electronic gadgets and the internet are beneficial in so many ways and in various aspects of our lives. However, it’s important to learn when to switch off from the digital world before it becomes detrimental to your child’s health and development. 

For more parenting tips, or if you’re looking for the best preschool for your child, please visit Imagine Nation Learning Center. 

 

 

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5 Ways to Support Your Child’s School Readiness

The start of the school year may bring mixed emotions for both children and parents. While this can be an exciting time that many kids look forward to, other kids may dread upon the arrival of the back-to-school season. Unfortunately, some children don’t experience a smooth transition into preschool. Many of them experience challenges, difficulties and separation anxiety. Their routines, physical environment, and activities change. If they’re not adequately prepared for this transition, some may even end up hating going to school. This is why it’s important for parents to help to facilitate their little ones’ readiness for school.

School is a wonderful place where a tremendous amount of learning takes place. You can help your little one fall in love with learning and attending preschool, and support their school readiness, by following these tips!

Play games that enhance self-regulation and concentration skills

One of the things that is critical to a child’s success during their early years is the ability to focus and pay attention. This is something that parents can help foster at home by playing fun games that encourage the development of these skills.

One of the games you can play at home is the classic “Red Light, Green Light”. You can also modify the game and create your own version to add more variety. Try adding more colors, for instance, and tell your child what actions each color cue requires. If red is for stop, green is go, then orange could mean take one step forward and blue means one step backward. This is just one of the many games you can play with your little one as he or she learns how to concentrate and follow instructions. Don’t hesitate to explore even more and make some tweaks to make activities like this more exciting.

Set their expectations

Another strategy that’s important to implement at home is setting your little one’s expectations about life at school. Take time to talk to young children and explain to them the things they can expect when school begins.. Tell them all about the fun things and activities they will experience and the exciting new things they will learn. It’s important to also mention some of the things they will need to learn to do on their own, since parents can’t be with them inside the classroom.

Help your child learn important self-care tasks such as getting dressed, putting on and taking off of their own socks and shoes, unwrapping their lunch, and using the bathroom. Be sure to teach these skills during the weeks before school begins.

Foster social skills

Good quality child care centers focus on developing a child’s academic skills in addition to vital emotional and social growth and development. Because your children will be with other kids at their preschool, it’s important to prepare them for the new environment by fostering their social skills early on.

Consider arranging playdates so your little one can practice social interactions. Bring your child to places where he or she can interact with new children, such as parks. This is an excellent way to reduce shyness and increase young children’s confidence in creating friendships with other kids, which is extremely helpful as soon as they start school.

Create a reading culture

Reading is one of the critical foundations of learning. Reading helps build children’s communication skills and develop their language and literacy skills.

To increase your child’s school readiness, be sure to create a culture of reading at home.  Help your little one develop a lifelong love for reading by making reading together a habit not only before bedtime but every chance you get. Encourage your little one’s participation during the activity, and ask questions as you go through the story together. It’s also a good idea to surround them with books and other interesting reading materials.

Foster emotional skills

Your child’s emotional skills will help determine how well he or she will adjust to the new school environment. As your child’s emotional skills develop, they will help your little one deal with challenging situations, especially ones he or she will face for the first time. Make sure young children are ready by helping them label and understand the reasons behind their emotions. Discuss these feelings,  and make sure they don’t feel they’re being blamed for the negative feelings they feel. Explain that for us to experience various emotions in different situations. It’s also important for children to know and understand how to respond to their emotions appropriately.

The earlier we start preparing our kids for school, the easier the transition will be and the more likely your child is to achieve success both in school and life in general. Follow these tips to help support and increase your child’s school readiness. Send your child to the best-quality child care center. Visit Imagine Nation Learning Center for more information.

 

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How to Ease Back-to-School Stress: 6 Tips for Parents

The idea of going back to school can be exciting for families, especially for kids. The start of a new school year brings many positives, like reuniting with old friends and making new ones, learning new things, and having fun. However, it can also be a source of anxiety and stress for many. This is perfectly normal. Many children may feel anxious about the thought of returning to school because they’ve just had a long summer break and are preparing to start school for the first time. Parents may also find  this season to be one that causes us to lose sleep and have less time for rest. If you find yourself caught in the same dilemma and are dreading the back-to-school stress, don’t worry. With the right attitude, adequate preparation, and some useful tips, back-to-school season doesn’t have to be stressful or difficult for you and your little one. Here’s a list of tips you might find handy:

Help your child feel more comfortable about returning to school

One of the leading causes of anxiety about going back to school is when children don’t know what to expect about the new school year. You can help your child feel more comfortable by discussing what they can expect ahead of time. Talk to your child about what his or her day will look like when school starts. This is especially important for kids who are going to school for the first time. 

As you and your child discuss what he or she can expect at the start of the new school year, talk about the type of routines will accompany a school day. Discuss details regarding what going to bed and waking up each day will look like, what time he or she will have breakfast and get dressed, and so on. It can also help to alleviate anxiety if you’re able to bring your child to see the school before the first day, so he or she can get a better sense of the new environment. Even if your child is returning to the same school building this year, it can still be beneficial to visit in order to help him or her feel reconnected and familiar with the environment.  

Stay positive

Another effective trick for easing back to school stress is to remind young kids about the things that make school fun and exciting. Besides learning new things, you can discuss the fun activities they will do at school this year. Ask children if they’re excited to see their old classmates and meet new ones. Talk about the games and activities they look forward to doing again, and what types of things they’ve missed about school during vacation. 

Establish routines before the school begins

Part of going to school is learning how to stick to a daily schedule and routine. To help minimize “culture-shocked” upon returning to school, it can help to start getting back into the school year routine for a few days before school starts. Have children practice their bedtime routine as they prepare for the first day. If your child needs to be in bed by 9:00pm on a school night,  have your child get into the habit of following a 9:00pm bedtime routine  before the school year begins. Do the same thing with meal times, playtime, and other activities during the day.  

Remind your child that you’re a team

Because back-to-school stress is something that both parents and kids often experience, it’s important for kids to feel that they aren’t alone. Let your child know that you’re also feeling anxious. Additionally, as you acknowledge your child’s  anxiety and worry, you can also try to redirect this into something more positive by letting your child know you’re confident that he or she will be in good hands. Ask your child about the things that may be bringing up feelings of worry, and talk about how you will be working on facing and resolving these things together.

Be present consistently

Whether or not it’s your child’s first time attending school, the transition back to school can be a challenging time for kids. The best thing parents can do to help make the transition easier is to be consistently present for their little ones. Carve out time for your child as soon as he or she gets home if you can, so you can discuss how the day went. Ask children about the things they learned as well as the activities they did during the day. Encourage your child to open up and share what’s on his or her mind,  especially if anything is troubling. 

Don’t forget about yourself

It’s not easy to be a parent, especially when it’s time for your child to attend school. This is why it’s imperative that you don’t forget to take good care of yourself too. Make it a priority to get adequate rest and sleep whenever possible. Prioritize your own mental and physical health and well-being. Being a good parent doesn’t mean putting yourself last. The healthier you are and the better you feel, the easier it will be to balance the demands of work and home.

It’s the start of the school year once again, and back-to-school stress can loom over parents and children alike. Don’t let it get the better of what can be a fun and exciting time by following these helpful pieces of advice!

For more helpful parenting resources, or if you’re looking for a preschool that offers a warm and friendly environment for your little one, please visit Imagine Nation Learning Center. 

 

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Internet Safety Tips for Kids: 6 Rules for Online Safety

The advent of the internet has made a vast amount of information accessible and at the tips of our fingers. Let’s admit it, the internet has enriched our lives in different ways we never could have imagined. In some ways, the internet has made our lives easier, more convenient and sometimes wonderful. However, like everything else in life, the internet has its downsides too. In fact, some aspects of internet usage can be dangerous for us and for our family members especially our kids. This is where the importance of  internet safety comes into play.

Whenever our kids go online, they put themselves at risk of accessing inappropriate content, accidentally sharing personal information, cyberbullying, and more. While children need to be given the opportunity to explore and navigate the world through the internet, parents play a vital role in making sure our kids use the internet safely. Check out the following internet safety tips so your kids stay safe when going online!

Educate your kids

Young kids are the family’s weakest links when it comes to cybersecurity. Therefore, they need to be educated about how to use the internet safely and appropriately. Even though your children may be young, they need to be aware of the dangers that can come with improper use of some online platforms and the possible consequences if they are not careful. Make sure your child knows how important it is not to disclose personal information online such as names, phone numbers, address, parents’ place of work, names of their family members, and so on. When in doubt, tell your child to make sure he or she consults you and gets permission before entering any information online.

Remind children about the importance of privacy

With more and more websites and software gathering information for marketing purposes, be sure your kids are taught about the importance of privacy. Adults and kids alike can fall prey to accepting policies regarding sharing information without thoroughly reading the fine print. Don’t be lax, even if the settings are set to “private”. Once any of your personal information is shared online, you need to know that it is already stored somewhere. There’s always the possibility of having this information hacked. So it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Establish rules

While it’s okay that kids are given some liberty to have fun using their gadgets and electronic devices, parents should make sure there are rules established when it comes to the use of technology. Not only will this help ensure your child’s online safety. It will also reduce the likelihood of children becoming addicted to the internet.

When creating rules for your child, be specific about the hours they are allowed to go online, which websites they can visit, and the applications they are allowed to access. Don’t forget to designate “technology-free zones” around your home. This means that there should be specific areas or spots in your home where gadgets can’t be used. 

Monitor your child’s online activities

As soon as your child learns how to access the internet, be sure to pay close attention to his or her online activities. When posting anything online or sharing information on a website, they need to know that they may never be able to “take it back”. Monitor your child’s online activities and the things they post on their accounts or social media profiles (if they’re allowed to have one.)

Also, do not allow your child to shop online unsupervised. He or she might accidentally enter credit card details and other pertinent financial data on an unsecured website.

Check your child’s browsing history

Another internet safety tip for kids you need to remember is periodically going through your child’s browsing history. This will help you stay informed of the websites they have been accessing as well as the ones that may randomly pop up. It is also a great idea to create a folder with shortcuts to the websites and applications they visit frequently. This way, they won’t have to manually search for these things in the browser, which is ultimately safer

Turn screen time into family time

Besides being a vast source of information, the internet is also a great source of entertainment. So why not make use of it to create some fun family bonding time? Instead of doing individual activities online, maybe you can play some family games online or stream some feel-good family movies? Not only is this a safer use of the internet; it also provides the perfect opportunity to connect as a family!

The internet has made our lives wonderful in many ways. However, it can also be a dangerous place for young kids if we aren’t careful. Make sure your child stays protected from the potential dangers of the online world by following these internet safety tips for kids.

For more tips to help guide you on your parenting journey, please view more helpful resources on our website, Imagine Nation Learning Center. 

 

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How to Encourage Good Reading Habits in Kids

Before they are old enough to read and understand the printed letters on the page, young kids love the music of language as their parents read them stories. Reading to your child offers a plethora of wonderful benefits. In addition to being an excellent source of entertainment, reading helps stimulate a child’s imagination and spark his or her curiosity. When little ones are read to, it can help expand their vocabulary as they experience a whole exciting range of emotions and acquire new knowledge and skills. Because there are so many developmental benefits of reading, it’s imperative that parents carve out time and energy so they can help their kids develop a lifelong love of reading. Read on for some helpful tips to help you encourage good reading habits in your little one.

Make it a habit to talk to your infant early on

One of the best ways to raise a young reader is to start them off young. This means that even before your child learns to recognize and read letters, just the act of speaking to your baby has a significant positive impact.  Even if your little one can’t utter a word yet, talking to babies is the first important step toward their development of basic language skills. Speak in simple and short sentences, and do so as if you’re telling a story with varying voice inflection and intonation. This helps young children begin to learn how to identify emotions through spoken language. 

Read to your child every day

Introduce your little one to the wonderful world of reading by setting aside time to read together on a daily basis,  at least 30 minutes each day if possible. Make reading books part of your child’s bedtime routine, or carve out some time for reading during the afternoon. Doing so helps little kids understand the conventions of reading as they start to become more familiar with new words and vocabulary.

Be a good role model

Whether it’s books or magazines you’re into, letting your child see how enthusiastic you are about reading is a great way to encourage him or her to read. This sets a good example as you encourage a love for reading in your child. Pick up your favorite reading material during your free time or while you’re relaxing at home. Children are more likely to follow what they observe from their parents and other adults around them. Not to mention, reading is an excellent alternative to screen time. 

Keep a variety of reading materials around your home

Keeping all sorts of interesting reading materials around your home is another way you can encourage reading in young children. Make sure your house is filled with a variety of fun and interesting reads that are appropriate for your child’s reading level.

Create a reading nook for your child

Developing good reading habits begins at home. Your child is more likely to pick up a book if he or she has a comfy spot dedicated to reading. Find a nice location in your home and convert it into a reading nook for your family.  It doesn’t have to be a large space. It can be a little corner that’s quiet and comfortable  with adequate lighting. Maybe you can put a soft couch or chair in your reading nook, and surround it with some reading materials your child will enjoy. 

Encourage activities that involve reading

Reading isn’t only learned and developed between the pages of a book. You can also encourage reading in your child by doing other activities that also involve reading. For example, when you invite your child to join you in the kitchen while you’re cooking, you can have him or her help you read the recipe and ingredients. When your child gets a new toy, have him or her read the assembly instructions. Something as small as practicing reading even a sentence or two in random locations at home and when you’re out any chance you get is a great way for your child to practice reading. 

Take your child to the bookstore or library

Another fun way to help young children develop a passion for reading is by taking them to the bookstore or library. These places offer an extensive range of options when it comes to reading materials. Have your child choose from a selection of books, comics or magazines they find the most interesting and those appropriate for their age and reading level. 

Reading is beneficial to kids in so many ways. Use these tips to encourage reading in your child early on. 

For more tips on parenting, or if you’re looking for the best preschool for your child, please visit Imagine Nation Learning Center. 

 

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Back-to-School Safety Tips for Parents and Kids

As summer draws to a close, many children across the country are looking forward to going back to school. They anticipate reuniting with friends, beginning the next grade level, and learning about all sorts of new and exciting things. While this may be an exciting time for most kids, parents may be feeling more trepidacious.  The idea of returning to school during a pandemic may be unsettling for parents.  If you find yourself feeling anxious about the prospect of your child returning to school this fall, know that you’re not alone. Fortunately, we have come up with a list of back-to-school safety tips to help ease your mind and ensure your kids’ safety upon returning to school!

Practice social distancing

Sitting or standing too close to others can increase the risk of contracting germs such as those caused by the coronavirus. This is where the importance of “social distancing” comes in. Social distancing (or physical distancing) is the practice of putting enough space between yourself and others in order to reduce the likelihood of virus transmission.

While schools play an important role in implementing social distancing both inside and outside the classroom, it’s also imperative that parents remind children to maintain a safe distance from others as well. Children should also avoid sharing food, drinks and any other personal items. 

Wear a mask

Children are no exception when it comes to the importance of wearing a mask. Face coverings are crucial as there may be times when maintaining a safe distance from others becomes impossible or challenging.

Make sure your little one always wears a mask in public places, especially at school. The transmission of the virus can happen instantly when there is no face protection. Infectious respiratory droplets from an infected individual can be released into the air when he or she breathes, speaks, coughs or sneezes. Ensure that your child has an extra layer of protection by providing a mask. 

Remember to include masks on your list when you purchase school supplies. Have your child wear a mask as soon as he or she steps out of the house, and be sure to include a “back-up” mask if a replacement is needed during the day. 

Keep hands clean

With or without a pandemic, proper and frequent hand-washing is one of the most important habits parents need to teach their children. Regular hand-washing can help protect your child from contracting  germs and viruses that cause illness. Teach your little one the importance of keeping hand-washing. Encourage young children to practice this habit before and after meals, after playing with  toys, after playing outside, and before they touch their face.

At times when hand-washing isn’t possible, for example if children are in a classroom that doesn’t have a sink, it is recommended that your child use hand sanitizer that contains 60% alcohol. Furthermore, children should be reminded to cover their faces with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.

Boost your child’s immune system

Another back-to-school safety tip you shouldn’t overlook is helping to strengthen your child’s immune system. A strong immune system can help keep your child from contracting viruses and other diseases. Strengthen your little one’s ability to fight off sickness by ensuring proper nutrition. Limit children’s intake of unhealthy foods like sugary and salty treats. Instead, encourage children to eat a balanced diet, and always incorporate fruits and vegetables into your family’s meals. Remember to also prioritize quality sleep and make sure your kids get at least eight hours of sleep every night.

Closely monitor their health

Checking your child’s health and wellness should always be one of your top priorities as a parent. Therefore, be sure to always monitor your child’s health condition. Don’t ignore minor symptoms. A simple fever or cold may seem harmless, but it’s always better to be sure. Be sure to follow your child’s scheduled check-ups regularly  and don’t put off consulting with a doctor if you notice anything strange or unusual.

Listen to your child’s concerns

As a parent, one of the most important roles you play is being your child’s confidante and advocate. If your child voices any anxiety or concerns about returning to school amidst the pandemic,  be available to listen. Discuss all of the health and safety measures that will be followed at school, and assure them you’re doing everything you can to ensure their health and safety as well. 

It’s understandable how parents like you may feel anxious about your child returning to school. By following these back-to-school safety tips, and choosing the best educational child care setting that prioritizes your child’s wellness and safety, you can put your mind at ease and be assured of their safe and continued quality learning. Give us a call at Imagine Nation Learning Center for more information. 

 

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5 Ways to Practice Playful Parenting

Playing is an innate part of childhood that especially comes naturally to young kids. Children engage in play not only for fun but also as a means to learning and exploring the world around them. However, for busy parents trying to strike a balance between the demands of work and home, play can often be the last thing on our minds. But what if you were told that “playful parenting” actually plays an important role in the formation of a deeper bond between you and your child? Making time for playful parenting can also help to lighten the mood in a stressful home as it creates a positive atmosphere. Perhaps you recognize the importance of incorporating play into the time you spend with your child, but you just don’t know where to start.

Many parents find it challenging to interact on their child’s level and engage in fun play together. If you find yourself caught in this dilemma, you’re not alone. Read on and learn some helpful tips to practice playful parenting in your home.

Begin the day with play

One of the first things that comes into  the mind of a young child the moment he or she opens his or her eyes in the morning is playing. Young children may immediately think about their toys and the games they plan to play throughout the day. Just thinking about the fun that awaits them often makes them giddy and excited. But who says children are the only ones who can benefit from play? Starting the day being playful with your child can help energize you and set a positive tone for the rest of the day. 

Make it a habit to start your day with your child  by incorporating time for play. It doesn’t have to be a lengthy session of play. It can be quick, even while you’re preparing breakfast. Or you may spend a few minutes taking your little one outside for some quick outdoor play while enjoying some sunshine. It’s not difficult to incorporate a little playtime into your morning routine. In no time you’ll see that it can work wonders!

Dedicate a time for play

If it’s impossible to engage in a little playtime in the morning, try to find a different time or hour you can dedicate to playing with your little one.. Allocate a 30-minute or even one-hour window for some playful bonding time with your child. You can be spontaneous as you come up with different games to play… or better yet, encourage your little one to spearhead the planning!

Let young children come up with a list of games you can play together, as well as the toys and supplies that will be needed. Allowing them the chance to do the planning and make choices is highly beneficial to the relationship between you and your child. One of the only times you should be involved in directing the activity is when safety is a factor. Otherwise, have fun channeling the inner child in you as you engage and enjoy this precious bonding activity with your little one!

Use dolls and puppets

Many young kids like to use dolls or puppets in their pretend play. They also respond well when these types of toys are incorporated into playtime  because it can stimulate their imagination and spark their creativity. Don’t be afraid to be silly when playing with puppets! Have fun as you develop silly and interesting characters that make play time more fun and exciting! You can be goofy and use different voices to represent each character, which also makes it easier for your child to distinguish between characters.

Turn mundane tasks into fun games

Do you find it challenging to squeeze playtime into your extremely busy day? You can make household chores and routine tasks more fun by incorporating play. For example, you can turn collecting clothes from the clothesline into a race! Or perhaps put on upbeat music in the background while you clean around the house so you and your little one can sing and dance as you tidy up!

Not only is incorporating fun play into household tasks an excellent way to make something that is typically boring and tiring lighter and more fun. It can also be a terrific way to teach young kids about household chores. 

Revisit classic games

Some classic games from our own youth never get old! Take a trip down memory lane and recall some of your favorite games from your own childhood. Which games did you enjoy most? Now is a perfect time to introduce these activities to your kids and play them together!

Playful parenting can benefit your kids and the whole family in many ways. Follow these tips to help you jumpstart your journey through playful parenting with your little one

For more helpful resources on parenting, or if you’re looking for a great preschool for your child, please visit Imagine Nation Learning Center. 

 

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6 Effective Screen Time Rules Parents Should Use for their Kids

Stories about kids throwing tantrums for their parents taking away their smartphones or tablets are not uncommon. If you’re a parent, you may have seen or experienced it yourself.

Parenting in the digital age is certainly not easy. Screens are addictive and children can’t help but stay glued to the couch watching TV or playing video games. This is where screen time rules come in.

Too much screen time can be detrimental to a child’s healthy growth and development. It takes away the time and opportunities they should be spending for other activities and interaction with people. It can even impact their sleep, trigger behavioral problems and lead to obesity. Technology and entertainment media is everywhere and though it’s difficult for kids to put their devices down, it’s important that parents set healthy boundaries for their children. 

Read on and learn effective screen time rules to use for your kids.

Set a time limit for their use of technology

The exact number of hours young kids spend on screens may vary depending on your family’s lifestyle. But it’s important that you don’t let them spend hours without limits. 

As a parent, you should be the one to set the time limits and schedule your child’s use of technology. If they’re allowed to use the screen for a maximum of 2 hours each day, be sure to stick to it. Set a timer and give a heads up if their time is almost up. Also have it scheduled accordingly. Do not encourage or allow screen time use during meal time or before bedtime. 

Determine screen-free zones

Screens should not be allowed just anywhere in the house. Make some areas in your home technology-free zones. For example, the TV should be exclusively in the living room. Kids shouldn’t have a TV in the bedroom nor should there be one in the dining area. Only allow them in the living room or play area.

By keeping the devices away from certain places around the house, you’re providing your little one more opportunities for important interactions with the family as well as other helpful learning activities. 

Redirect use of screens for learning

The internet and technology aren’t necessarily a bad thing. In fact, they can be helpful when utilized in the right way. Find ways to turn screen time into time for learning. Search for kid-friendly apps and websites that offer educational content. There are also online games and activities that promote creativity, imagination, and literacy, among other things.  

No screen time before bedtime

If you’ve been struggling with putting your child to bed at night, you might want to revisit how they’re exposed to screens at night. Do they still have their tablet with them or are they still watching TV before getting to bed? If so, it’s time to change this habit. Stop screen time an hour before bed. 

Find fun alternatives

Let’s admit it. Smartphones and tablets come in handy when we need to keep our kids busy while we are too busy ourselves. However, screens aren’t the only sources of entertainment. You can look for other great alternatives that do not expose kids to too much screen time. Encourage them to engage in other fun and exciting activities such as boardgames, books, arts and crafts, and their own toys!

Explore more outdoor activities

It isn’t healthy to allow children to live a sedentary lifestyle because they spend almost the entire day with technology. 

Encourage physical activity by giving them more opportunities to have outdoor fun. Take them to the park so they can run around and play with other kids. You can also spend a weekend at the beach or play family games in the yard.

It’s important that children learn to love and appreciate the outdoors without TV or any screens or phone. They’ll have a happier and more memorable childhood!

Limiting a child’s screen time is one of the greatest challenges for today’s parents. Of course, we want to make sure that the growth and development of our kids isn’t compromised. With the help of these screen time rules, you can set healthy boundaries so they enjoy their electronic devices without it taking a toll on their development.

For more tips on parenting or if you’re looking for the best preschool for your little one, please visit Imagine Nation Learning Center. 

 

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5 Basic Skills to Teach Kids to Become Independent

Ever noticed how your little one is starting to do things by themselves without help from you or any adults? This is the phase where they start to exercise independence.

It’s important that parents encourage this because developing independence in kids fosters self-reliance. It gives them a sense of confidence and boosts their self-esteem. It also helps them develop other vital qualities that set them on the path to success. Cultivating independence in young kids begins with learning important basic skills – how to cook, managing money, managing their time, and many others. 

Give your child the gift of independence by teaching them these fundamental skills.

Time management

Being responsible for their own time is one of the things that children should learn early on. This will help them become efficient in managing their projects and school-related tasks, which allows ample time for both play and work. 

As parents, we often find ourselves constantly telling our kids what to do and when they should do it. We’re often the one deciding how their day should look. Rather than dictating all these things, it’s a lot better to give your child the opportunity to practice time management. For example, instead of waking them up in the morning, let them set their alarm clock and get up on their own. Encourage them to keep track of their own activities by having them use a planner or creating a schedule chart.

Money management

Spending money seems easy enough especially for young kids who do not understand yet how difficult it is to earn money. This is exactly why parents should train their kids how to be money-savvy.

Instill in your little one a good attitude toward money by incorporating it into your conversations. Emphasize the importance of saving and the fact that money is something that we earn by working. And because they’re just kids who receive an allowance from parents, let them save up for something they want to buy instead of buying it for them. This will teach them how to budget the pocket money they’re given. 

Simple cooking

Teaching kids how to cook isn’t only instilling in them a sense of independence. It’s also a good way to teach them about the importance of a balanced diet. When you get the chance, invite your little one to join you in meal prep and cooking. Make them feel comfortable in the kitchen by assigning them simple tasks and providing them the tools they need.

It can be as simple as making their own peanut butter sandwich or tossing a salad. You can also get them involved in baking. Ask them to mix the dry ingredients or sprinkle chocolate shavings over the cookies you’re making!

Taking care of their health

As much as we always want to be around our kids to make sure they’re safe and protected, we know that that’s not the case. Make sure your child knows how to take care of themselves while they are young by instilling in them the importance of caring for their body and their health.

Teach them about personal hygiene and keeping themselves clean to stay away from viruses. Also, pay close attention to their diet. While you want to make sure they eat their fruits and vegetables, be sure not to force it. Instead, discuss the risks of not eating healthy and binging on sweets and junk food all the time. 

Decision-making

Whatever happens in our future largely relies on the decisions we make today. And if you want to make sure your child gets to enjoy a good life down the line, it’s a good idea to teach them the value of making appropriate decisions at an early age. 

Teaching them about decision-making doesn’t have to be complicated. You can start with letting them choose between two activities, two food items, two games, and so on. When practicing this, guide them toward making better choices by explaining the consequences each decision entails. 

We all want our kids to grow up becoming fairly independent. And developing essential basic life skills is a good way to start. 

For more helpful parenting tips or if you’re looking for the best preschool for your little one, please visit Imagine Nation Learning Center. 

 

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6 Tips for Building your Child’s Social Skills at Home

Social skills are important for young kids to develop. These are integral to function well in society, to effectively create and maintain relationships, and ensure healthy interactions in all aspects of life. A child who is socially intelligent is one who is more likely to succeed in the future because they are capable of making conversation, they are considerate of others, and they can communicate effectively with others. The good news is that building social skills is something that parents can help their children do.

Being in school offers young kids more opportunities to socialize, mingle, and make friends with peers. This gives them more chances to sharpen and boost their social skills. But what happens outside of school? How about when schools are closed?

If you’re worried about these things, know that you shouldn’t be. There are several things you can do to continue building your child’s social skills at home!

Practice asking questions

Is your little one the shy type? Do they find it difficult to make friends because they’re too shy to start a conversation? Maybe one of the first things they need to learn is how to ask questions. 

Start coaching your little one on asking questions and making conversations by doing a role-play. Pretend to be the reporter who is asking them about the toy car or doll they’re playing with. Ask them what they like about it and why it is their favorite toy. Get them to talk more about it. Then, switch places. Get hold of another toy and let them ask similar questions or any other questions they can think of. Who knows, they might actually end up liking their role as the interviewer/reporter!

Teach them the art of starting a conversation

Starting a conversation or getting someone’s attention or joining a group of kids playing together isn’t always easy for kids. But they can learn this art with practice. Teach your little one how to properly approach another kid or a group of kids. Teach them the right greetings, the right things to say, and how to say them. Then practice this at any random moment during the day, over the dinner table, or in the middle of playtime. Use real-life scenarios and see how they’ll respond.

Watch TV shows together

There are plenty of kid’s TV shows that present opportunities for conversations. Leverage these shows during their screen time to analyze and discuss the interactions between characters. Watch TV as a family and find segments within the show that can spark conversations. Let them also observe facial gestures and behaviors and take cues from those.

Use picture cards

Because not everything about social skills is verbal, it’s important that children learn about nonverbal skills, too. One of the things that can help are picture cards. Use picture cards that show various body languages and facial expressions. Let them practice interpreting what a person feels based on visual cues. This will help them tell whether a person is sad, angry, bored, happy or frustrated. 

Understand tone

Tone also plays an important role in communication. One statement may have any one of several different meanings, based on how it is delivered. This is why it’s important that kids learn how to understand and interpret tone when building social skills. 

To practice, use a tape recorder or voice record on your mobile phone to record different emotions. Use only one statement but deliver it in different ways with varying tone and feelings. Then, let your child identify the emotions that come along with each delivery. For example, you can say “I want pizza!” and use an excited tone, angry tone, bored tone and so on.

Enhance their attention span

Having better social skills means longer attention spans. And children aren’t really great at being attentive and focusing on one thing for a significant amount of time. But don’t worry, it’s a skill they can learn. Pick one topic you can talk about and say three sentences – 2 sentences pertaining to the topic and one that’s off-topic. Let them analyze and identify which one isn’t related to the topic.

Developing social skills should be part of a child’s holistic and healthy growth and development. If you want your little one to grow up to be a socially intelligent individual, follow these tricks to building your child’s social skills at home. For more parenting tips or if you’re looking for the best preschool for your little one, please visit Imagine Nation Learning Center.

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How to Beat Cabin Fever: 6 Kid-Friendly Activities You Should Try

Cabin fever is a popular term used to describe a person’s reaction to being confined or isolated over a prolonged period. It is usually associated with feelings of irritability and restlessness and manifests in both adults and children alike.

There are various kinds of circumstances by which cabin fever symptoms may occur. One good example is the situation we’re in now; the one that’s brought upon us by the pandemic. 

If your child is experiencing cabin fever as a result of quarantine, lockdown, and social distancing, know that you’re not alone in this. The good news is that there are several ways to combat the anxiety your little one may be feeling. Read on and learn how to help your child beat cabin fever.

Indoor games

There’s no better way to combat cabin fever than by increasing physical activity and moving your body! Your kids may be confined inside the house but it doesn’t mean that fun should be limited. There are several games the family can play inside the house that do not create a mess.

You can have scavenger hunts or indoor treasure hunts! You can also try playing object hide and seek and make it more exciting by adding a twist to it. Maybe you can add clues and describe the hidden object with one adjective. Set a time limit to add a little pressure and excitement to the game. 

Kitchen activities

Getting busy in the kitchen is always fun. Not only is it an excellent way to beat cabin fever but it’s also a perfect parent and child bonding activity. 

Why don’t you carve out time for cooking and baking? Look for kid-friendly recipes online which you can replicate with your child. Bake some cookies or cupcakes. Be sure to encourage their participation and get them involved in the process by doing simple steps such as mixing and decorating. Give them a free hand on decorating the cookies as if they were pieces of art or choosing what color of sprinkles to use atop the cupcakes!

Arts and crafts

Imaginative activities such as arts and crafts are another great idea for killing boredom when children are home. Provide your little one with materials to work on such as recycled paper, cans and plastic bottles. Give them coloring tools as well as space to do their works of art. Let their imagination run wild and give them the liberty to create anything they can think of from scratch, unless they seek help for ideas, of course.

Not only are these activities great for keeping them entertained but they are also great ways to help foster creativity in young kids.

A walk down memory lane

Kids love to look at old photos as much as adults do. So, while you’re all home and enjoying more family time, bring out photo albums and have your little one look at the photos of their younger selves. The nostalgia this activity brings offers the perfect opportunity for storytelling and reminiscing the most precious moments from when you first held them in your arms. 

Household chores

There’s no better time to teach kids about household chores than during a vacation from school. Doing a few simple things around the house can instill in kids some valuable lessons. These include a sense of responsibility, independence, and patience. Incorporate age-appropriate chores in your child’s day to day activities at home.

If they are too young to do a big kid’s chores, have them tackle the simplest tasks such as organizing their toys or fixing their bed. If they can handle bigger stuff, ask them to do more stuff around the kitchen or help out with the cleaning or gardening. 

Storytelling and book reading

Another fun learning activity you may want to encourage for your kids to beat cabin fever is reading storybooks. Reading offers an extensive range of benefits to children. It helps develop their cognitive skills and foster their creativity and imagination. Carve out time for reading and storytelling while school is out. Who knows, you might awaken a lifelong love for reading.

It might get you worried to see your little one showing signs of restlessness or anxiety or irritability but don’t worry. There are several cures to beat cabin fever and these are some of the activities you may want to try.

Need more parenting tips or are you looking for the best quality early childhood education for your child? Please visit Imagine Nation Learning Centers.

 

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How to Have Family Gatherings During Social Distancing

One of the many things people have to sacrifice when doing social distancing is family gatherings. In many places, mass gatherings and even family reunions are strongly discouraged. It’s not hard to understand why. Transmission of diseases can happen very quickly when people congregate socially. 

Missing family gatherings is difficult and sad. It only exacerbates the emotional burden we feel in the midst of a challenging time. But don’t worry. There are several creative ways to connect with family and loved ones despite the distance. Here are some of the helpful ideas you may want to try!

Have a virtual dinner together

While visiting the homes of your family and relatives when doing social distancing is impossible, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy fun conversations over a hearty meal with them. Because you can. Thanks to the internet, you can still eat together even from afar!

Because family gatherings are made extra special when there’s food, why don’t you plan a virtual family dinner which everybody can enjoy over a video call? Prepare your favorite meals and dishes and schedule the dinner on a day when everybody is present. A weekend night perhaps? Or a midweek dinner will do, too. Whenever you want to have it won’t really matter. The important thing is that you are all gathered together (virtually) to share conversations and nice meals to bond and keep the connection alive. 

Hangout virtually whenever you can 

There’s no better time to make good use of the internet than now. So, don’t hesitate to ping a family member from afar and hangout virtually every chance you get. If you’ve got some free hours on any random day, invite family or relatives to jump in on a video call while you’re having coffee or watching your favorite shows. You can have fun conversations over coffee or tea or watch the same TV show or movie together! 

There are plenty of platforms to choose from. You can do it on Facebook Messenger, Facetime, Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp and more! Not only is video chatting helpful in bridging the distance to make family gatherings possible; having those face to face interactions and socialization is also good for your mental health. Even when they are virtual.

Play online games together

Games make family gatherings more fun and exciting. And even when you’re doing social distancing, you can still inject fun and excitement into your virtual parties by playing online games together. 

Look for online multiplayer games where several players can participate. From board games such as puzzles, scrabble and chess to more complex, role-playing games, there’s an extensive range of games out there to entertain your family for hours!

Create an online group for the family

Does everybody in the family have social media accounts? If they do, choose an online platform everyone is comfortable using. Create a group and invite the rest of the family to join in! Use this group to stay connected with everyone through chats, photos, audio and video calls – anything to keep everybody in the loop. This is also an excellent place to share old memories to remind you of the good old times and make you look forward to gathering together again in the near future. 

Go back to the traditional method of communication – write a letter

Writing letters may seem a little old-fashioned but who says they’re a bad idea? In fact, writing a letter may make a family feel extra special. 

There’s something about handwritten notes and letters that gives the recipient a warm, fuzzy feeling. Perhaps, it’s the fact that it’s more personal because they’re written on a piece of paper and not typed in an email or text message. So go ahead and write a family member a letter or a greeting card. Feel free to include photos or scribbles and hand-drawn pictures from the kids. This is an excellent way to maintain a sense of connection and provide a reminder of love even from afar. 

Family gatherings may not always be possible due to certain circumstances but who says you can’t keep the connection alive? With a little creativity, you can maintain the connection and continue strengthening the bond with family members despite the distance!

For more helpful tips on parenting or if you’re looking for the best preschool for your child, please feel free to visit Imagine Nation Learning Center. 

 

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5 Coping Strategies for Kids Who are Dealing with Anxiety

In today’s frenetic world, feelings of anxiety or stress are common. Adults are not the only ones suffering from this. Children feel anxious, too.

Sometimes, you may get so busy with your own daily struggles that you tend to ignore or not acknowledge your children’s feelings. Children’s anxiety can increase and could affect their development as they grow older.

So, how do you handle such situations? What are the best and most effective coping strategies for kids that you can implement to help them escape the cycle of anxiety?

Often, anxiety among children may arise from different causes impacting their normal routine, such as specific situations in school or with friends. In certain cases, your child may be suffering from lack of self-confidence or low self-esteem. Some children may have learned to “worry” too much about almost everything. 

Whatever the case, there are simple and practical solutions that will help your child cope with anxiety:

Let them acknowledge the feeling

Parents’ first instinct when they see their child getting anxious is to tell them to “relax” or “don’t worry”. While it’s normal, no child has ever stopped worrying just because he/she has been told to do so. Worry has become an integral aspect in our lives and serves a good purpose in how we live day-by-day.

Without worry in our life, we might never be able to prepare ourselves for actual threats that may occur. Worry acts as a sort of practice for our minds in that regard. Still, it can be carried to unproductive levels.

It is important that you let your child acknowledge their emotions and give them uninterrupted time to vent out their worries, as well as frustrations. Then, you can brainstorm together to come up with a suitable solution.

Talk to your child

Avoid asking leading questions, instead simply inquire about their feelings that day or at that particular moment. Encourage your child to talk openly about his/her feelings. You can let them list out their emotions just like how you would do with a shopping list. This will help them clarify what is going on around them and alleviate the pressure they may be having.

Set up a calm-down and relaxing space

A space specifically designed to help your child calm down or manage their anxiety is one of the most effective coping strategies for kids. You can set up a space in their bedroom—a cozy and comfortable spot where they can go when needed. This is beneficial for your child because not only will they know that they have somewhere to go when they feel anxious, but they can feel relaxed and happy knowing that you care enough for them to create this calm-down space.

Most often, children’s anxiety is aggravated when they feel alone and unloved. 

Practice the PNB (Pause, Notice, Breathe)

Sometimes, amidst the chaos of our busy life, we forget to take a break. The same principle applies to kids. Encourage your child to learn how to take a break—pause, notice, and breathe.

This little exercise is simple: pause, notice the things around you or notice the feeling that may arise, and gently breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth. Through this exercise, you can help your child manage their anxiety as this slows everything down.

The more you encourage your child to practice this, the more they will be able to naturally incorporate this into their daily routine.

Help your child create a coping kit

Aside from the calm-box space, you can also help your child build their own coping kit. If you want your child to work through his/her anxieties and worries, help him/her learn various coping skills.

There are so many strategies that you can both try. You can create a list of strategies and use them when triggers arise. Some include:

• Stress balls
• Deep breathing
• Journaling or just writing down your worries
• Progressive muscle relaxation
• Seek assistance from an adult

Try these simple strategies and figure out what works best.

What’s most important is that you let your child know that you are and always will be there when needed.

Take care of your own needs, too. Teaching a child how to cope with anxiety may be stressful for parents as well. 

If you want more help managing your child’s anxiety, feel free to contact us at Imagine Nation Learning Center. We are more than happy to offer you with more effective anxiety coping strategies for kids.

 

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4 Tips for Hosting Remote Playdates to Help your Child Maintain Friendships from a Distance

Even before this latest series of events, there have always been reasons that kids could not get together in person with their friends. Family vacations, moving out of the area, illness…

 

Can children still have playdates even when they can’t get together in person?

Technology is now a major part in people’s lives—and everyone is grateful for this. Modern technology enables so many things, including the ability to communicate across great distances.

 

There are apps that allow your kids to connect virtually with their friends and enjoy some playdate fun. Through these apps, they can play various board games, read to each other from the same book, collaborate on school projects, watch movies together, create art together, or play online games together.

 

Here are some fun playdate ideas you can let your kids enjoy when they can’t get together in person:

 

Caribu

This is a free video-calling app that offers unlimited access to its members. Kids will love this app.

 

They can read books from over 1,000 titles together, color, and play games during the video call. The aim of this app for kids to have meaningful connections and keep them connected in a more engaging and educational way.

 

Netflix Party

Gather all your kid’s friends and host a movie night.

 

Netflix Party is a great tool to let kids watch their favorite movies together. Those with a Netflix subscription can add this Google Chrome extension for free where you can synchronize a video playback with your child’s playdates.

 

You can also add a group chat where they can talk while watching the film. This is a by-invitation-only party so parents will not have to worry about strangers joining the chat. 

 

Anyone in the group can pause, rewind, or fast forward the movie to ensure that nobody gets left behind.

 

Grab some snacks or pop some popcorn for your kid, set up a comfy couch, and let them enjoy a long-distance movie night with friends.

 

Game Night

Kids love games, and spending most of their time playing online games is normal for some. 

 

Playing games — even video games — together has long had a social component, even for those who are not in the same room.

 

Online gaming site Pogo lets kids play their favorite board games, such as Yahtzee and Monopoly, with their friends virtually. Pokemon Go is another interactive game that allows kids to interact with each other and monitor their activities online.

 

Messenger Kids

Parents worry about their kids being unchecked on social media, and for good reason. However, parental controls are built right into Facebook’s Messenger Kids app.

 

Kids can have all the fun they want, with parents having some peace of mind. This app lets kids from 6-12 years old message and video chat with family and friends.

 

What’s more fun about this app than many similar mainstream messaging apps is that it comes with challenges, filters, and drawings kids can play with. They can also use this channel to collaborate with their friends to talk about homework or group projects.

 

Staying connected and continued learning are important. Even when kids can’t get together in person, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they have to cut off their social ties with friends.

 

Give your child the best education and preschool, contact Imagine Nation Learning Center for more details.

 

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Coronavirus

• We are open to continue serving our families and community. We operate an essential service for our children, working families and our community and we take that responsibility very seriously. That is why the health and safety of our children and staff is of the utmost importance to us.

  Please visit our FAQ page. We will make regular updates as new information becomes available.

  Our Health and Safety Practices

  We will continue to follow our health and safety protocols, adding additional protocols that include a dedicated cleaning staff continually sanitizing surfaces throughout the day. We will be promoting cleanliness and good hygiene with the children (including more frequent hand washing and cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and items in our classrooms). We will be learning about the importance of hand washing and how it can keep you healthy. We will also be taking the children’s temperatures frequently throughout the day.

  Upon arrival we will be limiting access to our schools. We have cancelled all outside activities, i.e. Monkeynastix, Stretch-N-Grow, Soccer Shots, etc.

  Attendance

  In general, we are requiring that children and staff stay home from school for 14 days following the last potential exposure, if any member of the household has (or may have) a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19. In addition:

  • We observe the children’s health throughout the day and respond appropriately as needed if we detect any potential signs of illness.
  • If your child does become ill at school, we will call you immediately so they can be picked up as soon as possible. Should that occur, please be sure to pick up your child promptly for their well-being, and to help us limit the spread of illness.

  Overall, the best way to ensure our students have limited exposure to germs is by keeping children at home when they are ill and/or contagious. We ask that you please watch your child closely and contact your physician if your child appears to be feeling under the weather. Please remember your child must be kept home if they display any signs of illness until they are free of symptoms for 24 hours or have a physician’s approval for them to reenter a child care setting.

  Travel

  We’re following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance for child care providers (CDC Childcare and K-12 Guidance) and their Travel Advisory (https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices).

  The Travel Advisory lists areas of the world that are heavily affected (Level 3), which will require those who have traveled to these locations and members of their household to refrain from entering school for 14 days upon return. This applies to our children, families, and staff members. The list is being regularly updated.

  Are you looking for immediate care?

  Are you a family in need of care? Please contact our school at 817-473-4406 for more information. There is currently a screening process to enroll in any of our locations.

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