Author: Monica Healer

Hey Reader! Does your storytime (especially Bible time) need a little pick-me-up at this point in the year? Young children learn best when they can see, move, touch, and participate. When Bible stories become something children experience, not just hear, the message begins to take root in ways that are way more fun and, therefore, more impactful!!! Bible stories are full of action, emotion, and wonder—and young children naturally respond when we invite them into that experience. Our Bible…

Hey Reader! Many young children are wiggly, loud, and constantly on the move, especially at this time of year. You might find yourself saying, “Let’s walk!” for the tenth time before 10:00am… or wondering how they still have so much energy when you feel completely drained. (Just me?) Here’s the good news:When children move their bodies, they’re not just “getting energy out.” They’re building balance, coordination, strength, and confidence. And the best part? You don’t need extra supplies or a…

Hey Reader! It’s center time, and one of your children is completely absorbed—stacking blocks, knocking them down, and starting all over again. You’ve already said, “Clean up!” a few times… but nothing. No response. No eye contact. No movement. It’s easy to think, “He’s just not listening.”So now what can you do? Because getting frustrated and repeating yourself yet again isn’t working. Start With a Reflection Before correcting behavior, try this simple shift: Say what you see—like a mirror….

Hey Reader! This time of year, the days are long, your energy is low, and routines can start to feel…automatic. But what if you could spark curiosity in just a few small ways—without adding more to your to-do list? Here are three simple ways to bring wonder back into your classroom tomorrow: 1. Add a Tiny Twist A tiny shift could be something as simple as: adding a few leaves to a sensory bin, offering a new way to stack blocks, or changing the order of songs during circle time. These small…

Hey Reader! It’s April. The classroom rhythms are familiar.The children know the routine.You’ve worked hard all year to build something special. And if you’re honest… it’s also a little easier right now to let some things slide. You skip a transition cue.You stretch circle time a little longer than usual.You assume, “They already know what to do.” It’s subtle.But it matters more than we think. By this point in the year, children feel comfortable. That’s a gift. But comfort without consistency…

Hey Reader! It starts with a tiny kick on a blanket. A baby on her back stretches her legs toward a hanging toy. A few months later, that same baby is rolling with determination across the room. Soon she’s pulling up. Then cruising. Then running straight into your arms. Gross motor development doesn’t just “happen.” It unfolds through intentional space, repeated practice, and responsive adults who cheer every wobble. When we support large muscle development in the early years, we’re not just…

Hey Reader! Working with young children is not a “get rich quick (or at all)” career move! For many of us, we’ve heard (or even used) the word “just” as we describe what we do – “I’m just a preschool teacher.” “You just work with little kids.” At ECCN, we KNOW that our reward is not financial, but we KNOW that our reward is eternal. While our neighbors may not fully understand and value what we do, we know God counts caring for children as one of His highest priorities! (See Mark 10:13-16)…

Hey Reader! It’s drop-off time and you see one of your moms practically dragging her son to your door. “It’s been a rough morning” she says, and lets out an exasperated sigh. Jaden is crying, holding his half-eaten waffle in one hand while he’s trying to pull free from his mama’s tight grip. Many of the parents in our programs are struggling. They feel tremendous pressure to create the perfect childhood for their children. And they often feel as though they are failing. But your 30-second…

Hey Reader! You’re telling the story of Jesus feeding 5,000 people. You hold up the little basket.You lower your voice for effect.You pause at the miracle. And then you look out at your class of three-year-olds. One is wiggling.One is playing with their shoe.One is loudly announcing that they had goldfish crackers for breakfast. You really want them to connect with this story. Not just hear it — but feel it. So you decide this week won’t be just storytelling. It will be hands-on. Interactive….

Hey Reader! What’s your favorite part of being an early childhood educator? Is it the music and movement? The smiles and hugs from the children in your care? Or maybe… changing diapers, wiping noses, tying shoes, and snapping pants? Most of us probably wouldn’t list physical care as our favorite part of the day. But here’s an important truth to remember: intentional, loving physical care is essential—and also deeply spiritual. When you patiently care for a child’s physical needs, you are…