Every March, communities across the country celebrate Women's History Month, a time dedicated to recognizing the achievements, leadership, and contributions of women throughout history. In early childhood education, this celebration provides a wonderful opportunity to introduce young children to important values such as respect, equality, and appreciation for the people who help shape our world. While young children may not yet understand the full historical significance, the

Few authors have made reading as playful, rhythmic, and unforgettable as Dr. Seuss . For generations, his colorful characters, silly rhymes, and imaginative stories have introduced young children to the joy of books. But beyond the fun, there’s a deeper reason why Dr. Seuss continues to inspire a lifelong love for reading. 1. The Power of Rhythm and Rhyme One of the most powerful elements in Dr. Seuss books is rhyme. Stories like The Cat in the Hat  and Green Eggs and Ham  us

A child’s learning journey doesn’t begin and end at the classroom door. The strongest foundation for growth is built when parents and teachers work together as a team, sharing insights, goals, and encouragement. When children see consistency and cooperation between home and daycare, they feel more secure, confident, and ready to learn. Why Partnership Matters Children thrive when the adults in their lives are aligned. When parents and teachers communicate openly and support o

Choosing a childcare center is one of the most important decisions a family can make. You’re not just selecting a place for your child to spend the day—you’re choosing an environment where they will feel safe, loved, and supported during their most important developmental years. Here are a few key things every parent should look for when selecting the right childcare center. 1. A Safe and Nurturing Environment Safety should always come first. Look for a center that is clean,

Young children experience big emotions every day—frustration, excitement, sadness, and joy often come all at once. Learning how to manage these feelings takes time, practice, and support. Emotional regulation doesn’t develop overnight; it’s a skill that grows through consistent guidance and caring relationships. At daycare, childcare workers play a key role in helping children understand and manage their emotions in healthy, age-appropriate ways. 💛 What Is Emotional Regulat

Starting March 1, 2026, Missouri will implement a waitlist for new Child Care Subsidy applications. This is an important update for families looking to use subsidies to help cover childcare costs. At Tomlin Academy, we want to make this process as smooth as possible for our families. Here’s what you need to know: Families applying for a Child Care Subsidy may be placed on a waitlist, depending on availability. Children in foster care or receiving preventive services through t

Choosing the right childcare environment is one of the most important decisions a family can make. While every child adjusts at their own pace, there are clear signs that show when a child feels safe, supported, and happy in their childcare setting. Recognizing these signs can give parents peace of mind and confidence in their child’s daily care. 😊 Your Child Feels Comfortable and Secure One of the strongest indicators that a child is thriving is emotional comfort. Children

Young children thrive on consistency. While adults may enjoy variety and spontaneity, children feel safest and most confident when their days follow a familiar rhythm. Predictable routines help children understand what comes next, which reduces anxiety and supports healthy emotional and behavioral development. From morning drop-off to meal times and rest periods, routines provide structure that helps children feel secure in their environment. 🧠 How Routines Support Emotional

One of the simplest and most powerful ways young children learn about the world is through stories. Books open doors to imagination, empathy, and understanding. During Black History Month, storytime becomes a meaningful opportunity to introduce children to diverse characters, cultures, and experiences in an age-appropriate way. In early childhood, children don’t need detailed historical lessons to begin developing respect and appreciation for others. What matters most is expo

Friendships are an important part of childhood, but for young children, learning how to make friends doesn’t always come naturally. Sharing toys, taking turns, using kind words, and understanding feelings are all skills that develop over time. With gentle guidance and consistent support, children can grow confident in their ability to connect with others. 🤝 Why Social Skills Matter in Early Childhood In the early years, children are learning how to: Communicate their needs a

February is Black History Month, a time to reflect on history, culture, and the importance of respect and inclusion. In early childhood, this doesn’t mean teaching complex historical timelines—it means helping children understand kindness, differences, and the value of every person in simple, meaningful ways. Young children are naturally curious. They notice differences in skin tone, hair, language, and family traditions. These observations are not negative—they are opportuni

Snowy weather slows everything down. Morning routines take a little longer, tiny boots feel harder to put on, and children stop to stare out the window—curious, excited, and full of questions. While snow can be inconvenient for adults, it offers powerful learning moments for children. ❄️ Learning Patience and Awareness Snow teaches children to move carefully, to notice their surroundings, and to understand that conditions change. Walking slower, holding hands tighter, and wai

Snowy days can be exciting for children—filled with curiosity, play, and seasonal fun. While winter weather brings opportunities for learning and exploration, it also requires extra care to keep children safe. Snow safety is especially important for young children who are still learning how to navigate slippery surfaces and cold temperatures. Dressing for Winter Safety Proper clothing is one of the most important parts of snow safety. Children should be dressed in warm layers

Winter brings excitement, snowy views, and opportunities for seasonal fun—but it also comes with important safety considerations, especially for young children. At daycare, keeping children safe during snowy and icy conditions is always a top priority. Staying Safe During Snowy Weather Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can create challenges for daily routines. To ensure children remain safe and comfortable, it’s important to take extra precautions both at home and at daycare.

Choosing the right childcare program for your child is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a parent. But sometimes, even after settling in, you may wonder whether it’s time to make a change. Transitioning to a new childcare program is a big step, and knowing when it might be the right time can help ensure your child’s development, happiness, and overall well-being. Signs It Might Be Time to Transition Your Child’s Needs Are Changing As children grow, their soci

Children thrive on consistency. Knowing what to expect, feeling secure in routines, and receiving similar guidance from the adults in their lives helps children feel confident, safe, and ready to learn. That’s why consistency between home and daycare plays such an important role in a child’s development. When expectations, routines, and behaviors are supported both at home and at daycare, children experience a sense of stability. This stability helps reduce confusion, ease tr

The start of a new year is a special time—full of hope, fresh routines, and exciting possibilities. In early childhood, each new year brings opportunities for children to grow, explore, and discover the world around them in meaningful ways. Every day in a daycare setting is filled with small moments that make a big impact. From learning how to share and express emotions to building confidence through play and exploration, these early experiences help shape a strong foundation

A new year is here, and at Tomlin Academy , it means fresh opportunities for learning, growth, and joyful moments with the children and families we serve. The start of the year is a wonderful time to reflect on how much our little learners have grown—new words spoken, new friendships formed, and new skills discovered. Every small milestone reminds us why early childhood education is so special. As we step into this new year, our focus remains the same:to provide a safe, nurtu

The holidays are full of joy, excitement, and special moments—but for young children, they can also bring big changes to daily routines. Later bedtimes, busy schedules, and lots of stimulation can make the return to normal life feel overwhelming. As the New Year begins, it’s the perfect time to gently help children reset and adjust back into healthy routines. Why Routines Matter for Young Children Routines provide children with a sense of safety and predictability. Knowing wh

The holiday season is filled with excitement—decorations, family gatherings, special treats, and time off from regular schedules. While this time of year can be magical for young children, it can also feel overwhelming without some sense of routine. At Tomlin Prep Academy, we believe children thrive best when holiday fun is balanced with comforting structure. Why Routines Matter During the Holidays Young children feel safest and most confident when they know what to expect. C