Author: Monica Healer

Hey Reader! When was the last time you pulled out a puppet in your classroom? Whether it’s a sock puppet, a set of finger puppets or a full-fledged hand-puppet, they can be a great tool in your toolbelt for helping children learn in so many ways. Why Puppets Work Puppets capture children’s attention in ways teachers don’t. They create a playful, low-pressure way for children to engage, which is especially helpful at the beginning of the year when trust and comfort are still being built….

Hey Reader! “They don’t learn to regulate by being told to “calm down.” They learn by being calmed with.” – source Stop for a moment. Have you ever thought about the fact that no one is born knowing how to “calm down”? We all learn how to “calm down” in our early years by the interactions and relationships we have from the very beginning! How can you help a child learn how to calm down in your classroom? We loved these 5 tips from THIS article: Stay close: Your physical presence is grounding….

Hey Reader! These first few weeks of school are tough, aren’t they? Let’s talk about separation anxiety. Children are wired for attachment — God made all of us to need each other, trust each other, and rely on each other. So when the person they’ve depended on suddenly turns around and walks away? That can feel terrifying. Right now, your littles are learning: That you are safe That their classroom is safe That you will help meet their needs That their parent always comes back And that it can…

Hey Reader! You are shaping hearts and minds. As early educators in Christian childcare, your work matters deeply. Between lesson plans and diaper changes, remember these three powerful foundations: 1. Relationships = Trust Children thrive when they feel safe, seen, and loved. This starts with you. Consistent, compassionate care reflects God’s love and builds trust—especially in these early weeks. We talked about it last week, but it’s still the top priority this week! 2. Environment =…

Hey Reader! It’s time to go back to school! Some of you have been back for a couple of weeks and some of you are gearing up for your first day very, very soon! Here are three tips to help you start your year out successfully: Root yourself in Christ FIRST! Before you plan lessons, buy cute decorations, plan your meet the teacher outfit…spend some time with God. Pause and ask God to speak to you in a way that is unique to your relationship with Him. Listen to a worship song (THIS is one my…

Hey Reader! School has just started for some of you and some of you still have a couple of weeks before you start. Will you take a moment to pray over this school year? For the Children – “Lord, prepare their hearts to feel safe, loved, and ready to learn in our care.” For the Families – “Give us wisdom to partner with parents and be a light in their lives.” For Yourself – “Help me to start the year rooted in Your purpose and filled with Your strength.” 🕊️ “Let your roots grow down into…

Hey Reader! Adversity often shows up early. Family stress, trauma, poverty, instability—it all impacts the kids in your care. Many of you are in affluent areas where you might think this isn’t an issue…I urge you to look carefully. While you may not see poverty, you most definitely will see stress, instability and trauma in some of the children in your care. But here’s the good news: You can be a protective factor. (The info below comes from an amazing book – Overcoming: What Scripture &…

Hey Reader! Your Preschool Is a Front Porch to the Church A new school year brings new families—many of them looking for connection, encouragement, and purpose. You have a built-in opportunity: help families take one step closer to Christ. Why it matters: Families might enroll for safety, academics, or convenience, but God can use your preschool to reach their hearts. Let’s be intentional from day one. 1. Make it personal A flyer isn’t enough. A warm invitation from a trusted teacher or…

Hey Reader! At ECCN, we LOVE to play outside no matter the weather! But some days…when the summer heat (and humidity in some areas) is just too much…it’s easy to feel stuck doing the “same ole thing”. Today, we’re including just a couple of activities for each age group to do INSIDE that still bring all the joy, movement, and exploration of summer play. Infants (0–12 months) Sensory discovery with a summer twist Beach Ball Tummy Time: Gently hold a baby steady as you roll a beach ball under…

Hey Reader! Every great storytime includes something for children to HEAR, SEE, and DO. When you intentionally connect these three elements, you create learning experiences that stick long after the book is closed and the circle has disbanded. HEAR: Use Your Voice Like a Tool Children don’t just listen—they feel your words. Use: Different character voices (squeaky, slow, deep) to draw them in Pauses for effect to build anticipation Emphasis on key phrases to make vocabulary pop SEE: Bring the…