CNC in Action: Five Great Practices in a Child Centred Program
Red River College’s CNC program in Steinbach, a rural area one hour outside of Winnipeg, serves a growing local immigrant population. Located in a Mennonite Church, increased enrolment keeps the site running at or near its capacity of 25 children, who range in age from 18 months to five years old. Not only is the program filling a need within the community, but the staff is showing strength in child-centred care and explorative play, according to their CMAS consultant, Jackie Cunningham.
CMAS spoke with the Childcare Supervisor, Nalini Ranganath, to explore
five of their practices that really benefit the newcomer children.
We’re going on a Goopy Bear Hunt…..Fine Motor Sensory Fun!
If you have children showing interest in the concepts of big and small, counting and grouping colours, try this
fun activity that encourages them to explore and expand on those concepts during sensory play!
Science of Early Child Development
The Science of Early Child Development (SECD)
resources bring research and concepts to life with hundreds of readings, videos, links, questions for reflection, and interactive activities. From the latest research into babies' brain development and the impact of early experience on well-being, to topics such as child rights, literacy and the importance of play, SECD explores how nature and nurture interact from conception on to construct a foundation for development.
Celebrating Diversity In Preschool
As early childhood programs become more culturally diverse, many educators are wondering how they can teach about diversity in the early years. In this HiMama preschool podcast, Jordana Shakoor talks about shifting perspectives on diversity and how
diversity is an exciting learning experience for both children and teachers. She talks about how genuine curiosity when learning about new cultures makes celebrating cultural differences a more natural process.
Playful Learning Spaces for Babies and Toddlers
Creating engaging , welcoming and playful learning spaces for babies and toddlers is just as important as setting up environments for older children. Yet sometimes this is easier said than done and we struggle to find the right balance between offering an environment that is developmentally appropriate and yet still allows for both security and basic caregiving needs to be met alongside the freedom of exploration as they challenge and extend upon new skills. Find out more about
why designing a playful learning space for babies and toddler is so important here!
What’s Behind Separation Anxiety
Handling separation anxiety isn’t only about managing an individual child, it is also about working with their parents through it all and creating a safe and welcoming environment. It also helps to understand
what's behind separation anxiety for different age groups, and strategies to help!
CMAS in Action: A Team Effort– Supporting Special Needs in CNC
Children arrive in your CNC programs and may exhibit concerning behaviours or delays. Sometimes, these issues disappear as they settle into the routine. Other times, additional professional assistance is needed. Even if a child does not have a special needs diagnosis,
CMAS can help.
15 Tips for Creating Invitations To Play
Invitations to play are really just a collection of materials set up with some thought and creativity to
invite children to explore, investigate, and PLAY. The goal is to create invitations that allow children to direct their own play - by giving them access to open ended materials that encourage investigation, further exploration of current interests, curiosity and imagination. It's about being intentional in your teaching but keeping it simple, hands on, child led and above all fun!
Child Guidance Video Series
As you get into the swing of things this fall, here's a fantastic video series that's full of important information and reminders for your team on
Children's Behaviour,
Prevention,
Intervention and
Limits
How to Plan & Observe: Play Ideas for Babies & Toddlers
To plan effectively for the 0-2 Years age group takes a little thinking outside the box. Here, you'll find
ideas for planning play experiences and programming for babies and toddlers that are not only easier and faster, but also more meaningful and effective for the children and educators.
