The Importance of Promoting Diversity in Early Childhood Programs
The concept of diversity takes various forms and is incorporated into many aspects of our life. From religion, gender, culture, family structures, and physical abilities, we are each brought into this world made up of many differences. For years it was thought that children would automatically form positive outlooks about differences, but research has shown that
advocating and exposing children to diversity requires active promotion!
5 Strategies for Supporting Multilingual Children in Your Program
Multilingualism is an asset to be nurtured in our programs. Here are
five strategies for celebrating and extending the linguistic expertise of young children who speak two or more languages.
Intentional Inclusion For Multicultural Classrooms
In this episode of the preschool podcast, HiMama chats with K’Sandra Earle, Associate Director of Early Learning Neighbourhood Collective (ELNC), about
how to be intentional about diversity in early learning classrooms. K'Sandra shares tips on empowering teachers and involving parents to create a space that celebrates young children and their unique cultural backgrounds.
Extending Block Play for Early Learning
There is absolutely no wrong or right way to play with blocks! Every child is unique in the way that they choose to approach materials and blocks can be such a valuable tool to encourage open ended play and learning. This mini guide provides
ideas and inspiration for block play, and even has a suggested block play materials list.
WEBINAR: Using Routines to Help Children Adjust After COVID Closures and Other Disruptions
In this
webinar, participants will learn practical strategies to help children readjust to attending early childhood programs after COVID-19. In this strategy packed webinar, an experienced play therapist and child psychologist shares the importance of structured daily routines to smooth transitions. He will also provide some ideas for play-based interaction skills that can empower children with a perceived loss of control that children often experience during major life changes.
The Power of Mirror Play for Infants and Toddlers
Mirrors are wonderful tools for engaging babies and toddlers. But what makes mirrors so intriguing and why should you hang one in your play space?
WEBINAR: Provoking Inquiry with Loose Parts
Join co-author of the award-winning books, Loose Parts: Inspiring Play for this
webinar full of tips for choosing and setting up loose parts for children in your program! Participants will learn the value of loose parts in play, how to choose loose parts using different lenses for different learning goals, and how to set provocations that promote inquiry.
15 Things Every Early Childhood Educator Should Do
Looking for a little inspiration? Here are
15 things for early childhood educators to focus on, accompanied by links to books, blog posts, and other practical resources.
Looking for ways to honour and celebrate Black History Month?
February is Black History Month! Here are a few resources to help you learn and celebrate with the children in your program:
How did Black History Month come to be? (a video),
Canadian Children's Books for Black History Month, and
28+ Activities and Craft ideas
WEBINAR: Implementing Virtual Learning-Tips from the Front lines
Looking for fresh ideas? Join this HiMama
webinar for virtual learning inspiration, strategies for supporting your team, and tips for building community during the pandemic.