Parents

A Guide to Executive Function

Executive function and self-regulation skills are like an air traffic control system in the brain—they help us manage information, make decisions, and plan ahead. We need these skills at every stage of life, and while no one is born with them, we are all born with the potential to develop them. But, how do we do that? Here's a Guide to Executive Function to walk you through everything you need to know about these skills and how to develop and practice them.

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10 Activities to help young children express and label feelings & emotions

Children can have a difficult time understanding their emotions and the way certain events make them feel in the early years of life. As educators, it is our responsibility to help and support them to manage their emerging and often confusing emotions. Here are 10 strategies and 10 activity ideas for helping children express and manage their emotions.

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Webinar: Updated recommendations for early introduction of allergenic foods

Did you know that the Canadian Paediatric Society has updated recommendations on the early introduction of allergenic foods for high-risk infants? Register now to learn about the new recommendations.

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New mental health videos for newcomers

It is important for families talk about mental health and for children to be supported if they have challenges, anxieties, or stresses in life. Ottawa Public Health (OPH) has launched two new videos about the mental health challenges of settling into a new country that you can share in your community.

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Keeping Reusable Water Bottles Clean

We often ask parents to bring in reusable water bottles, but did you know that without proper cleaning, children's water bottles can be filled with germs? Reusable water bottles must be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized on a regular basis to avoid contamination.

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How to Facilitate Risky Play

Risky play is when children engage in risk-taking activities. This benefits the child because it helps them build essential skills for their development; for example, their confidence, self-regulation, and independence. But how can we facilitate risky play safely in our programs?

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How to Transform Challenging Behaviour

Are you struggling with children's behaviour and looking for ways to teach social-emotional skills in your CNC program? Here's a website and resources might help! You can even download a free resource that's full of simple, practical strategies to help you create positive changes in your CNC program.

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Healthy Habits for Life Child Care Resource Kit

As a child care provider, you have the wonderful opportunity to help lay a healthy foundation. In addition to their families, you are their model for food and fitness. The Healthy Habits for Life Child Care Resource Kit will give you the tools you need to teach children about eating right and being physically active so that they can establish healthy habits for life. In it, you'll find: easy-to-use, fun lessons and activities that will fit in with your existing routines; ways to establish a connection with children’s families and support healthy habits at home.

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Sick with the flu: Helpful visuals for parents

When children display symptoms of the flu, parents are often unsure when they should call the doctor or when to take their child to the hospital. Children with the flu can typically be treated at home with rest and fluids. A trip to the emergency room (ER) should not be necessary for most cases of the flu. However, there are certain warning signs parents can watch for to know when to seek medical attention.

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New Canada Food Guide