5 Communication Activities for Preschoolers

Communication is an important skill that sets the stage for a child’s success in both social settings and academics. In the early years of preschool, children begin to build the foundation for effective communication through language development and interaction with others. As caregivers and educators, it’s vital for us to create engaging opportunities for preschoolers to refine their communication skills.

In this article, we’ll explore five practical activities for preschoolers to help become better communicators. These activities focus on encouraging speaking up, listening attentively, and engaging with friends and classmates, laying the groundwork for strong communication skills. These activities are perfect for kids ages 2-10 and can be adapted to suit different abilities and interests. Let’s delve into these activities and equip our young learners with the tools they need to communicate confidently and effectively.

1. Charades

Charades is a classic communication game for kids that encourages them to use nonverbal cues to express ideas. To play, have your child act out a phrase or word without speaking while the other players try to guess what it is. This game helps children practice interpreting and using gestures and facial expressions to convey meaning.

You can make the game more challenging by using more complex phrases or having players take turns acting out different parts of a story. Charades is a great way to get kids moving and laughing while also building their communication skills.

2. Mystery Box

The Mystery Box game is a fun communication activity for kids that encourages teamwork and verbal communication. Place a mystery object inside a box and have the players work together to figure out what it is by asking yes or no questions. The player holding the box can only answer “yes” or “no” to each question.

This game helps kids practice asking targeted questions, listening carefully to the answers, and using deductive reasoning to solve the mystery. You can make it more competitive by having teams earn points for each correct guess within a time limit. Mystery Box is a great way to engage kids’ curiosity while building their communication and problem-solving skills.

3. Telephone

Telephone is a fun communication game for kids that demonstrates how messages can change as they are passed from person to person. To play, have the children sit in a circle. The first player whispers a message into the ear of the next player, who then whispers what they heard to the next player, and so on until the message reaches the last player. The last player then says the message out loud to see how much it has changed from the original.

This game helps kids practice active listening, clear articulation, and the importance of conveying accurate information. It’s also a great way to have some silly fun and spark laughter as the message often gets hilariously distorted along the way.

4. Blindfold Obstacle Course

The Blindfold Obstacle Course is an exciting communication activity for kids that emphasizes the importance of giving and following clear verbal instructions. Set up a simple obstacle course in your yard or living room, then blindfold one player and have their teammate guide them through the course using only verbal directions.

This game helps kids practice giving specific, step-by-step instructions and trusting their partner to guide them safely. It also encourages active listening and builds trust and cooperation between players. Just be sure to choose a safe space and supervise closely to prevent any accidents!

5. Story Chain

Story Chain is a creative communication game for kids that encourages collaborative storytelling. To play, have the first player start a story with a single sentence, then have each subsequent player add another sentence to continue the story. The game continues until the story reaches a natural conclusion or a predetermined number of turns.

This game encourages kids to listen carefully to each other’s contributions, use their imagination, and practice building on others’ ideas. It’s a fun way to collaborate and create silly or suspenseful stories together.

How to Find the Best Montessori Preschool for Your Kids in Los Angeles?

Shir-Hasirim Montessori Preschool is located on Carlton Way in Los Angeles. This school teaches children between the ages of 2 and 6 and prepares them for some of the top Montessori elementary schools in the city. Specifically, they offer a primary program and a summer program for preschool children.

At Shir-Hashirim, they allow their students to grow and learn both individually and within the community of the school. Students are able to learn at their own pace when it comes to both practical life skills and subjects such as maths and language. Shir-Hashirim Montessori has a parent-and-me program that is best for families who may enrol their child in the Montessori program.

For Admission Process and Other queries please Contact Shir-Hashirim Montessori

LOCATION

6047 Carlton Way, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Montessori Toys : Close-Ended vs Open-Ended

According to Maria Montessori, “play is the work of the child.” She thought playing was super important for learning in her special way of teaching called Montessori. Montessori teachers and fans believe that when kids play, they’re actually learning a lot. They get to explore and mess around with stuff, which helps them learn without even realizing it!

Toys in a Montessori classroom are meant for learning. These toys fall into two groups: close-ended and open-ended toys. Close-ended toys usually have one specific way to play with them, while open-ended toys let kids use their imagination and play in lots of different ways.

But which type of toy is better for your child? Well, in Montessori classrooms, they mostly go for open-ended toys. That’s because these toys let kids be creative, solve problems, and have fun making up their own games. It fits perfectly with the idea that kids should be able to learn by exploring and trying things out on their own.

What Are Close-Ended Toys?

Close-ended toys are those toys that have one specific purpose and have a specific way for the child to use them. This type of toy is typical in a Montessori setting (classroom or home). A few examples of close-ended toys are puzzles, tracing materials, picture-matching toys, knobbed cylinders, and more.

Before a child is allowed to interact with these types of toys, they must first complete a lesson.

What are the benefits of using close-ended toys for a child’s learning?

The first benefit of close-ended toys is the ability to provide a sense of achievement for a child in their use of a toy. There is a clear purpose for interacting with that toy and it is empowering for a child to discover that purpose.

Another benefit of using close-ended toys is the improvement in concentration. A child that interacts with these toys needs to focus to overcome any challenges that would prevent them from achieving their purpose. When a child is “in the zone,” it means they are concentrating on the task at hand. This moment of concentration is valuable in a child’s development. As they repeat the process, they gain mastery of the material they are interacting with.

The ability to correct themselves is another advantage of using close-ended toys. A child will know if something is “wrong” with what they are doing if that prevents them from completing the purpose of the material. When they self-correct, they can accomplish and succeed in their goal.

There are other beneficial life skills that a child will develop in the use of close-ended toys, such as sequencing, ordering, and identification. While close-ended toys are designed for use in a particular way, it does not mean that they cannot be used in other creative ways. Make sure to encourage your child to find different ways to explore, too.

What Are Open-Ended Toys?

Open-ended toys are those toys that can be played with in different ways. The use of these toys unveils endless possibilities for a child since there are no rules and guidelines to follow. There is no right or wrong way of interacting with these toys, which creates an open-ended play experience.

Interacting with open-ended toys promotes creativity and imagination in a child. There are no rules, as mentioned above, so a child relies on their imagination for how to use these toys. Playing without any rules is also a freeing experience for a child. It encourages independent play since they are given space to be creative, explore, and engage in imaginative play.  

Playtime in Montessori Learning

The importance of playtime in a Montessori classroom is one of the unique features of this teaching method. The characteristics of play in Montessori can be described as the following:

  • Playtime is a process. You must encourage children to play for the sake of it. There is no result that you have to work for because engaging in play can facilitate learning. For example, a child that builds a tower of blocks is not engaging in this activity because they want to build a tower. They do this because they want to master building that tower using blocks.
  • Imagination and reality are blurred. Children are naturally imaginative. They use their imagination when engaging with toys and objects. They have no distinction between imagination and reality, which opens up endless opportunities for them to be creative in interacting with toys and objects.
  • Children make up their own rules. There are no rules when it comes to Montessori playtime. The child is the one who formulates their rules and promotes an understanding of the rules of society in their play environment.
  • Play delivers a stress-free learning environment and is fun for children. Therefore, children who are having fun can absorb learning more effectively when they are not having fun. This is the primary reason why the Montessori approach to learning values playtime.

Close-ended toys are highly encouraged in the Montessori classroom. However, it does not mean that open-ended play is discouraged. Once a child has mastered the learning tools and resources, open-ended play can happen naturally.

SHIR-HASHIRIM MONTESSORI: LA’S BEST MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL SINCE 1985

Shir-Hashirim Montessori Preschool aims to offer practical assistance and support for parents seeking to help their children achieve their fullest potential. With 40 years of experience in nurturing young minds, the institution specializes in delivering essential academic and life skills through engaging and interactive approaches. Individuals are encouraged to contact Shir-Hashirim Montessori at their convenience for inquiries or to delve deeper into their programs.

Disclaimer: Shir-Hashirim Montessori maintains no sponsorship or affiliation with the brands referenced above. This informative blog serves the purpose of providing valuable insights into some of the finest Montessori toys on the market.

10 PRACTICAL LIFE ACTIVITIES FOR PRESCHOOLERS

Practical life activities are a cornerstone of the Montessori approach, offering preschoolers valuable opportunities to develop essential life skills while fostering independence and confidence. These activities, designed to mimic everyday tasks, not only aid in a child’s physical development but also enhance their cognitive and socio-emotional growth. Here are ten simple yet effective practical life activities for preschoolers.

1. Pouring and Transferring

Provide preschoolers with small pitchers and cups filled with water or dry beans. Encourage them to pour liquid or transfer beans from one container to another. This activity enhances hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and concentration.

2. Sorting and Classifying

Offer a variety of objects like buttons, beads, or colored pom-poms for sorting by size, shape, or color. Sorting activities help preschoolers develop cognitive skills such as classification and organization while refining their visual discrimination abilities.

3. Dressing Themselves

Encourage preschoolers to dress and undress independently, starting with simple clothing items like t-shirts and elastic waistbands. This fosters self-help skills, builds confidence, and promotes a sense of autonomy.

4. Setting the Table

Teach preschoolers how to set the table for meals, including arranging utensils, plates, and napkins. This activity not only instills responsibility but also enhances spatial awareness and sequencing skills.

5. Care of Plants

Involve preschoolers in caring for indoor plants by watering them, removing dead leaves, or repotting as needed. This activity teaches children about nurturing and responsibility while connecting them to nature.

6. Food Preparation

Allow preschoolers to participate in simple food preparation tasks such as washing fruits and vegetables, spreading spreads on bread, or kneading dough. Cooking activities promote independence, fine motor skills, and an appreciation for healthy eating.

7. Cleaning Up

Encourage preschoolers to tidy up their play area by putting toys back in their designated places and wiping surfaces clean. Cleaning activities teach children the importance of organization, responsibility, and maintaining their environment.

8. Washing Hands

Teach preschoolers proper handwashing techniques by demonstrating how to lather soap, scrub hands, and rinse thoroughly. Handwashing not only promotes good hygiene but also reinforces self-care habits.

9. Polishing

Provide preschoolers with polishing cloths and non-toxic polish to clean household items like wooden furniture or metal objects. Polishing activities refine fine motor skills, concentration, and attention to detail.

10. Sewing and Threading

Introduce preschoolers to basic sewing and threading activities using large plastic needles and yarn or shoelaces. Sewing buttons onto fabric or threading beads onto strings enhances hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and patience.

How to Find the Best Montessori Preschool for Your Kids in Los Angeles?

Shir-Hasirim Montessori Preschool is located on Carlton Way in Los Angeles. This school teaches children between the ages of 2 and 6 and prepares them for some of the top Montessori elementary schools in the city. Specifically, they offer a primary program and a summer program for preschool children.

At Shir-Hashirim, they allow their students to grow and learn both individually and within the community of the school. Students are able to learn at their own pace when it comes to both practical life skills and subjects such as maths and language. Shir-Hashirim Montessori has a parent-and-me program that is best for families who may enrol their child in the Montessori program.

For Admission Process and Other queries please Contact Shir-Hashirim Montessori

LOCATION

6047 Carlton Way, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Conclusion

Incorporating these practical life activities into a preschooler’s daily routine offers numerous benefits beyond skill development. These activities empower children to become independent, capable individuals while fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment in their abilities. By providing opportunities for hands-on learning and meaningful contributions to their environment, preschoolers gain valuable life skills that will serve them well into the future.

What Is Sensory Play And Why Is It Important?

From the moment they’re born, children use their senses to discover the world around them. Find out how to use sensory play to help the kid’s development.

What is sensory play?

Sensory play is any activity that stimulates our senses – touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste. It helps children interact with and make sense of the world that surrounds them.

Why is sensory play important?

Sensory play plays an important role in a child’s learning and development. Much of our learning comes through our ability to use our senses to retain information.

Sensory play is a lot of fun. It also offers many benefits for child development, including:

  • Helping children understand how their actions affect what’s around them.
  • Supporting brain development, enhancing memory, complex tasks and problem solving.
  • Developing fine motor skills through tactile play (useful when children want to hold a pen or use scissors for example).
  • Supporting language development, communication and social skills.
  • Enhancing memory and observational skills.
  • Encouraging creative and independent thinking.
  • Emotional regulation by providing a calming effect on children’s angry or anxious feelings.

Some children may have a sensory sensitivity or need. Every child who has a sensory sensitivity is different, and their needs may change over time.

When can you start sensory play?

From birth, children are ready for sensory play. Children are natural explorers – they’re constantly learning and taking in what’s around them.

Sensory activities can be adapted for different ages, needs and abilities.

You can easily adapt a simple sensory activity like blowing bubbles for different children at different stages and abilities, for example:

  • Babies might enjoy feeling the bubbles pop on their skin.
  • Toddlers can chase after bubbles and pop them on themselves, the floor, and surfaces around them.
  • For older children, try a project where they creating their own bubble mixture and blow bubbles using a wand or their hands.

What sensory play activities can parents do at home?

Sensory play activities can be as simple or complex as you’d like. They can often be set up with items you already have at home. There’s something to explore and wonder at in every home.

Here are some activities to try:

Sensory bottle

Fill a bottle with water, oil and food colouring for an exciting visual effect.

Indoor obstacle course

Use pillows, cushions, blankets – whatever you can find.

As well as the five senses, we also interact with the world through body awareness, movement and balance.

Playdough

Children manipulate playdough with their hands to pinch, squeeze and pull it into different shapes.

You can make your own or buy some premade. Add scents or toys to help them build imagination.

Sensory bin

In a box, or container, place various objects with a variety of textures for a hands-on experience for children. This could be beads, paper, kinetic sand and water or leaves, rocks and sand.

How to Find the Best Montessori Preschool for Your Kids in Los Angeles?

In the search for the best Montessori preschool in Los Angeles, parents seek enriching experiences for their children. Shir-Hasirim Montessori Preschool stands out by redefining early education, placing a strong emphasis on sensory play. Their curriculum integrates sensory activities that engage all five senses, creating an immersive learning environment conducive to child development.

What distinguishes Shir-Hasirim Montessori is their commitment to personalized learning. Recognizing the uniqueness of each child, educators tailor sensory experiences to individual preferences, promoting a love for learning and fostering holistic development.

By choosing Shir-Hashirim, families join a community dedicated to academic excellence, emotional well-being, and social growth. Sensory play activities not only meet developmental milestones but also cultivate a sense of calmness and collaboration among peers. Investing in Shir-Hashirim Montessori means prioritizing comprehensive early childhood education centered around the importance of sensory exploration.

For Admission Process and Other queries please Contact Shir-Hashirim Montessori

LOCATION

6047 Carlton Way, Los Angeles, CA 90028

20 BEST MONTESSORI-FRIENDLY TOYS BY AGE GROUP

The Montessori educational approach fosters an enjoyable learning environment for children, emphasizing independent play, hands-on learning, and creativity devoid of the constraints of specific tasks or predefined standards. Infants and toddlers are encouraged to engage in self-directed activities, while also having the opportunity to participate in simple interactive games with caregivers or educators. Many of these games, such as the Color Scavenger Hunt and The Name Game, necessitate minimal or no additional materials. Moreover, parents seeking to implement the Montessori method at home may find it beneficial to have a selection of Montessori toys available for their children’s independent play.

WHAT IS A MONTESSORI TOY?

Unlike numerous other toys available in the market, Montessori toys are designed to be open-ended, allowing children to explore their creativity rather than simply being passive recipients of entertainment. Additionally, Montessori toys are crafted with the intention of imparting specific skills rather than solely offering amusement. They are characterized by their simplicity and durability, making them suitable for young children to handle without fear of damage. These toys serve as excellent additions to any Montessori playroom, catering to the entertainment and developmental needs of children from diverse backgrounds.

BEST MONTESSORI TOYS BY AGE

Toys: Ages 0-1

During the initial year of life, infants undergo crucial developmental milestones that often go unnoticed by adults. These milestones encompass the ability to identify familiar faces, including their own reflection, establishing associations between objects and the sounds they produce, refining fundamental hand-eye coordination, and mastering mobility through various stages such as rolling, crawling, scooting, and ultimately walking.

1. The Leader Joy Montessori Munari Mobile: Designed for babies from one to three months old, this mobile helps infants learn how to track objects.

2. Montessori Gobbi Mobile: Specially designed for babies from two to four months old, this mobile helps a baby learn visual discrimination abilities and depth perception.

3. Haba Rainbow Fabric Ball: This ball, tailored for babies aged six months and older, assists young children in acquiring skills related to pushing and rolling objects, thereby enhancing their hand-eye coordination.

4. Set of 15 Large Wooden Blocks from My Toy House:  These large, rounded wooden blocks allow older babies to learn how to be creative and also teach hand-eye coordination.

5. Pocket Panda Baby Mirror Toys for Tummy Time: As babies encounter their reflections in this engaging mirror, they begin to grasp the art of making and identifying facial expressions. Its versatile design allows for easy use in cribs, on floors, or even in vehicles such as cars or vans.

6. Natural Wooden Baby Rattle by GRTMEN: A simple and safe wooden rattle that teaches a  baby how to grip a toy and follow its movement with their eyes.

Toys: Ages 1-2

The second year of your child’s life marks an exhilarating period as they achieve significant milestones in gross motor skills like walking, as well as fine motor skills such as carrying toys, kicking a ball, and navigating stairs. Additionally, toddlers begin to explore verbal communication, engage in scribbling, manipulate objects, develop pretend play skills, and demonstrate the ability to locate and identify named objects.

7. Fat Brain Toys Geometry Puzzle: This straightforward yet clever puzzle introduces toddlers to the concept of disassembly and reassembly. As they engage with the puzzle, toddlers will also become acquainted with fundamental shapes and colors.

8. Elite Montessori 3 Wooden Colored Discs on Colored Dowels: Similar to the geometry puzzle mentioned earlier, this enjoyable toy aids children in refining their fine motor skills as they learn basic colors.

9. Hape Pound & Tap Bench with Slide Out Xylophone: Music boosts your child’s cognitive abilities, IQ, and reasoning skills, and this engaging music-making toy ensures that your kids fully enjoy the benefits of music.

10. Hape Block and Roll Cart: A multipurpose toy to help kids learn to push and pull as well as load, unload, and stack blocks.

11. Learning Resources Farmer’s Market Color Sorting Set: Includes 5 baskets and 25 food items in a variety of colors. Kids learn color sorting, fine motor skills, and basic information about fruits and vegetables. Additionally, it serves as an excellent tool for fostering imaginative pretend play.


12. Hape Scoot Around Ride-On Wood Bike: Your toddler will have a great fun getting around on this safe bike while also learning balance & other coordination skills.

13. Waidobyu Montessori Shape Sorting Box: Older toddlers will enjoy learning how to take shapes out and put them back in. As they do, they’ll master fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, while also gaining familiarity with fundamental shapes.

Toys: Ages 2-3

Kids in this age group enjoy mastering running, jumping, climbing, throwing, and kicking. They frequently start showing a preference for one hand over the other, can say simple words and follow instructions, & want to imitate what the grown-ups do.

14. Pikler Triangle: This beloved and engaging toy provides children with the opportunity to develop their climbing skills within the secure environment of their bedroom or a Montessori playroom.


15. Monti Kids Bead Stringing Set: An enjoyable toy designed to assist your child in mastering advanced hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills with fun.

16. Monti Kids Tabletop Easel: Your little one will surely enjoy in drawing, coloring, stamping, and painting with their very own miniature easel. This device inspires creativity, helps kids learn colors and more.

17. Kids’ Station Indoor/Outdoor Toddler MUD Kitchen with Utensils: Perfect for creative play and mastering gross and fine motor skills.

18. Melissa & Doug Deluxe Pounding Bench Wooden Toy With Mallet: Boys and girls for sure love making noise with this fun toy. What’s more, they’ll learn about sound and master hand-eye coordination as they use it.

19. Melissa & Doug Cutting Food Playset: Kids will learn hand-eye coordination as they enjoy mimicking adults preparing food.

20. Wonder Wise Little Builder Workbench: All children are sure to enjoy carpentry play with this engaging toy. Additionally, they’ll refine their hand-eye coordination skills as they immerse themselves in imaginative activities.

SHIR-HASHIRIM MONTESSORI: LA’S BEST MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL SINCE 1985

Shir-Hashirm Montessori aims to offer practical assistance and support for parents seeking to help their children achieve their fullest potential. With 40 years of experience in nurturing young minds, the institution specializes in delivering essential academic and life skills through engaging and interactive approaches. Individuals are encouraged to contact Shir-Hashirm Montessori at their convenience for inquiries or to delve deeper into their programs.

Disclaimer: Shir-Hashirm Montessori maintains no sponsorship or affiliation with the brands referenced above. This informative blog serves the purpose of providing valuable insights into some of the finest Montessori toys on the market.

Why Arts Education Is Important For Preschoolers?

Culture refers to the beliefs, traditions, and creative expressions within a community. Providing children with access to arts education is essential for fostering their understanding of culture from an early age. Concerns have arisen over the years regarding potential cuts to arts programs in schools globally, alongside a growing emphasis on STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). A solution to enhance arts education is to integrate arts into STEM, thus forming STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math).

Advocating for the incorporation of arts education into school curriculum is crucial for promoting its significance within society. To save time on research, we’ve compiled a list of ten reasons why arts education is important for preschoolers to grasp the concept of culture and develop essential skills.

1. Creativity

Arts provide children with the freedom to express themselves however they choose. In various arts programs, instructors often encourage students to explore different interpretations of existing artworks. For instance, they might suggest painting a Renaissance masterpiece like Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa in an expressionist style or reimagining a classical composition such as Beethoven’s Für Elise in a contemporary genre like hip hop.

This approach, known as remixing, teaches children to harness their creativity and think innovatively, pushing boundaries to generate fresh ideas and perspectives.

2. Cultural Awareness

Engaging in artistic experiences enhances critical thinking skills and encourages children to observe the world thoughtfully and attentively. In today’s highly diverse society, an array of messages and perspectives easily reach and impact children, prompting them to critically evaluate and relate these messages to their evolving worldviews.

Through the arts, children gain exposure to various cultures and artistic traditions, allowing them to integrate these insights into their understanding. Simultaneously, they develop an appreciation for contemporary expressions of culture and diverse ways of living.

3. Improved Academic Performance

The arts inherent creativity and with that children learn an essential skill set for success! A report done by PBS states: “A report by Americans for the Arts states that young people who participate regularly in the arts (three hours a day on three days each week through one full year) are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement, to participate in a math and science fair, or to win an award for writing an essay or poem, than children who do not participate.”

4. Motor Skills

Various forms of art involve hands-on activities that contribute to the development of children’s motor skills. Engaging in creative processes, such as wielding a paintbrush, scribbling with a crayon, or handling musical instruments, allows children to refine their motor abilities.

According to the National Institute of Health, by around age three, children typically demonstrate the ability to draw a circle and begin using safety scissors. By the age of four, they should be capable of drawing a square and cutting along straight lines.

5. Visual Learning

Through processes of drawing, reading a script, and looking at a sheet of music, children can develop visual-spatial skills.

Dr Kerry Freedman, who is Head of Art and Design Education at the Northern Illinois University states that the world is much more than just text and numbers. Engaging in art creation allows children to interpret, critique, and utilize visual information to make stylistic and aesthetic decisions. Developing visual literacy equips children and young adults with the skills to navigate a world inundated with countless media messages and images. By becoming discerning consumers of media products and other commodities, they gain the ability to make informed choices.

6. Problem Solving

Creative and critical thinking work together in all types of art. When we tackle a problem, both sides of the brain are involved. Exercising both sides helps children learn that there can be more than one solution to a problem and more than one answer to a question.

Elliot Eisner, a Professor of Education at Stanford University states that this concept has a global scale as there are many ways to see and interpret the entire world. This view of the arts leads us away from the fact that art is only for aesthetic and provides entertainment, and parents are also able to understand that art is quite innovative.

7. Decision Making

We’ve already discovered that art enhances problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, both crucial components of decision-making. As young artists, children enjoy the liberty to make choices about their artwork.

Questions like: How can I express sadness in my dance routine? What color should I use for the character’s dress? How should I portray this character? or How can I adjust my tone to convey various emotions? These are all queries artists, including children, may ponder. Learning to make such decisions early can prove beneficial in other areas of their lives. Since this skill is cultivated at a young age, it carries over into adolescence, offering support during times of uncertainty.

8. Perseverance

Engaging in and mastering any skill is a time-consuming endeavor. Many individuals mistakenly believe that activities like drawing, painting, acting, or playing an instrument are easy. However, this misconception is challenged when the adage “practice makes perfect” is considered.

Children may feel frustrated and tempted to quit when they don’t immediately excel at a skill they’re eager to pursue, such as drawing, playing, singing, or dancing. However, through consistent reminders that improvement takes time and practice, they come to understand the value of hard work and perseverance. This mindset is crucial not only in academic settings but also in the workplace, where they’ll continually learn new skills and navigate challenging processes as they progress in their careers.

9. Collaboration

Collaboration is a cornerstone of the arts, as teamwork is essential for achieving greatness. In settings like theater, choir, or band, children must consistently collaborate. They share responsibility for the work and often compromise to achieve a common goal.

Through collaboration, children learn that their contributions affect the overall success of the group. As adults, we recognize the significance of collaboration in various aspects of life, including family dynamics, professional environments, and ongoing education.

10. Accountability

Responsibility plays a significant role in the arts, particularly when tasks are undertaken as a group. When a child assumes responsibility for their part within a team, they learn about accountability and reliance on others. Opting out of participation in a performance or project often highlights the impact of letting down peers and fosters a sense of ownership over outcomes.

In both school and the workforce, accountability is crucial, especially in collaborative efforts or when deadlines loom. Failure to meet obligations can disrupt the entire structure, placing the onus on the individual. While making mistakes is natural, so is accepting responsibility and taking action to rectify them.

How to Find the Best Montessori Preschool for Your Kids in Los Angeles?

Shir-Hashirim Montessori Preschool in Los Angeles stands as the top choice for preschool education, offering a holistic and enriching experience. With a meticulously crafted curriculum, the school prioritizes cognitive development, socialization skills, and emotional regulation. The dedicated staff fosters a nurturing environment, engaging children in interactive activities that stimulate problem-solving, critical thinking, and language development through storytelling and group discussions.

What truly sets Shir-Hashirim Montessori is its commitment to cultivating curiosity and creativity in young minds. Recognizing the significance of fostering a love for learning early on, the preschool integrates various stimulating activities, encouraging exploration and imaginative expression. This approach not only equips children with essential skills but also instills a lifelong passion for education.

Shir-Hashirim’s structured yet inclusive education approach ensures a smooth transition to formal schooling while nurturing a lasting love for learning. With its focus on holistic growth, academic excellence, and genuine dedication to each child’s development, Shir-Hashirim stands out as the epitome of a preschool dedicated to shaping successful and happy futures in Los Angeles.

For Admission Process and Other queries please Contact Shir-Hashirim Montessori

LOCATION

6047 Carlton Way, Los Angeles, CA 90028

18-MONTH-OLD BABY’S MILESTONES CHART AND DEVELOPMENT TIPS

Watching how your baby grows can be really interesting and fun for parents. In this blog post, we’ll talk about the important things your 18-month-old baby should be able to do. We’ll also give you a chart to see how your child is doing. Plus, we’ll share some helpful tips to make sure your child is growing well and reaching important milestones.

18-MONTH-OLD BABY MILESTONE CHART

By the time your child turns 18 months, they will have achieved various developmental milestones. Use this useful baby milestone chart to track and observe your child’s progress:

Physical Milestones:

  • Walking independently and confidently
  • Climbing stairs with assistance
  • Running or attempting to run
  • Kicking a ball
  • Stacking blocks or toys

Cognitive Milestones:

  • Acquiring object permanence
  • Identifying familiar objects and people
  • Following basic one-step directions
  • Mimicking actions and sounds
  • Resolving straightforward problems

Language Milestones:

  • Saying few single words
  • understanding simple instructions
  • Identifying body parts
  • Trying to mimics words and phrases
  • Employing gestures for communication

Social-Emotional Milestones:

  • Showing a connection to parents and caregivers
  • Displaying signs of independence
  • Engaging in basic pretend play
  • Expressing various emotions
  • Sharing toys with others

DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES OF 18-MONTH-OLDS

We are sure that you would have understood a lot about the baby milestone chart! Now, let’s delve deeper into some crucial developmental milestones for 18-month-olds.

Physical Development

At this stage, your child will be more active and self-assured in their movement. They’ll be walking on their own, climbing stairs with some help, and trying to run. Your baby will also take pleasure in kicking balls, stacking blocks, and participating in various physical activities to enhance their gross motor skills.

Cognitive Development

As your 18-month-old progresses, their cognitive abilities will expand. They’ll develop object permanence, solve straightforward problems, and identify familiar objects and people. Additionally, they’ll begin following simple one-step directions and mimicking actions and sounds they observe in their surroundings.

Language Development

The development of language is a vital milestone for 18-month-olds. During this period, anticipate your little one uttering several individual words and understanding simple directions. But that’s not the only exciting part! Your toddler will also begin identifying and naming their body parts, attempting to imitate words and phrases, and using gestures to express their desires. It’s truly remarkable to witness the strides your child will take in their communication skills at this stage, so be prepared to be amazed!

Social-Emotional Development

At 18 months, your child will begin to show signs of independence and a connection to parents and caregivers. They’ll engage in uncomplicated pretend play, express a variety of emotions, and share toys with others. Encouraging positive social relationships will contribute to the development of your child’s sense of self and their ability to empathize with others.

MILESTONES FOR 18-MONTH-OLDS: DEVELOPMENT TIPS

To help your 18-month-old achieve milestones, think about integrating the following developmental tips into your daily routine:

Encourage Physical Activity

It’s crucial to provide your little one with plenty of chances to explore their physical abilities! Parks, playgrounds, and playdates with other kids offer excellent opportunities for your toddler to showcase their walking, running, and even climbing skills. However, it’s important to closely monitor their activities and ensure they’re engaging in exploration in a safe environment without any potential hazards.

Foster Cognitive Growth

During this crucial period, it’s extremely important to boost your child’s cognitive abilities! Provide them with toys and activities suitable for their age that challenge their mind and encourage problem-solving. Puzzles, shape sorters, and building blocks are excellent choices! But go beyond that – make sure to participate in interactive playtime with your child, asking them questions that stimulate their critical thinking skills.

Support Language Development

If you want to nurture your child’s language skills, it’s crucial to engage in regular conversations with them, even if their verbal expression is still developing. Enjoy the pleasure of reading by exploring books together, sing some songs, and incorporate new words and expressions into your everyday conversations. Acknowledge your child’s efforts to imitate words and sounds, and praise their attempts to communicate effectively.

Promote Social-Emotional Skills

Encourage your 18-month-old’s social-emotional skills by encouraging interactions with both kids and adults. Set up playdates, participate in group activities, and expose your child to diverse social scenarios. Instill values like sharing, taking turns, and expressing emotions appropriately. Engaging in role-playing and pretend play can further aid your child in grasping social interactions and developing empathy.

Create a Consistent Routine

Young children flourish when they have predictability and a routine! To support their overall well-being, it’s essential to create a stable and secure environment. Establishing consistent mealtimes, naps, and bedtime routines is crucial for instilling a sense of structure and order in their lives. Consistency plays a vital role in helping little ones feel secure and content, ultimately influencing their overall growth and development significantly.

Be Patient and Supportive

Children each grow and develop at their individual pace, and it’s vital to be compassionate and encouraging during their journey. If you have any concerns about developmental delays or other issues, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a qualified medical professional or another specialist with expertise. With their support and knowledge, you can address any concerns and take the essential steps to ensure your child is thriving and reaching their full potential!

JOIN SHIR-HASHIRIM MONTESSORI: THE BEST CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER SINCE 1985

At Shir-Hashirim Montessori Preschool, they understand the importance of early growth factors for a child. Their thoughtfully designed curriculum fosters holistic growth. For more information about Shir-Hashirim Montessori or other queries, please contact them today.

THE TOP 10 BENEFITS OF DAYCARE PROGRAMS FOR WORKING PARENTS

Balancing work responsibilities while caring for your little one? You’re not alone. Many parents confront this situation, and it’s even tougher when you lack a stay-at-home grandparent to look after your child when you’re away.

The crucial aspect is providing your children with the necessary experiences for their emotional, physical, and cognitive development. However, what options do you have when your job is the sole means of maintaining your financial stability?

Daycare programs offer a multitude of advantages, extending beyond the evident ones.

JOB SECURITY

Balancing full-time childcare with consistent employment can prove challenging. The lack of flexibility in work hours may lead you to contemplate leaving your current job temporarily to handle responsibilities before returning to work. However, securing another job with a flexible schedule is not as straightforward as it may seem.

DAYCARE CENTERS ARE AVAILABLE FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES

If you’re looking to support child development at all stages of your young one’s growth, here’s some good news: Daycare centers warmly welcome children of all ages. Regardless of your child’s age, you can be confident that these daycare programs contribute significantly to their holistic development. This is largely attributed to the diverse range of activities available, spanning from arts and crafts to outdoor activities.

AFFORDABLE RATES

If hiring a nanny is beyond your budget, you’re not alone. Many working parents face the challenge of affording the high rates nannies charge. Why not consider placing your crucial child care responsibilities in the hands of a reputable daycare center? In doing so, you not only provide your children with a structured environment but also allow them to develop a positive affinity for that sense of routine. All you need to do is drop your children off at daycare in the morning and pick them up in the evening, without concerns about what they’ve been engaged in during the intervening hours.

PARENTS MAINTAIN A HEALTHY LIFE BALANCE

There’s no question about your deep love for your child, and your commitment to ensuring their happiness. Nevertheless, the combined pressures of work and the demanding responsibility of childcare can take a toll over time. You might experience burnout or, worse, feelings of depression. This is where daycare programs can be a game-changer, rejuvenating you and keeping you alert. They ensure that the time you spend with your little ones is truly ‘quality time.’

A STIMULATING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR CHILDREN

What makes Daycare particularly advantageous is its array of childcare benefits, with a primary focus on creating a stimulating environment that significantly contributes to the development of children of all ages.According to a NICHD study, children enrolled in high-quality childcare services are more likely to demonstrate enhanced language and cognitive development compared to their peers.

HIGHLY QUALIFIED AND EXPERIENCED STAFF

One of the most tangible benefits of Daycare programs is entrusting your children to trained staff with expertise in managing situations involving sick children and unforeseen emergencies. They diligently oversee the children’s schedules, providing you, as a parent, with peace of mind, as you can trust that every need of your child will be attentively addressed.

IT HELPS PREPARE THEM FOR KINDERGARTEN

A particularly valuable aspect of Daycare programs is their role in preparing young children for their kindergarten years. A report prepared for the NSW Department of Community Services highlights that children who attended pre-school the year before primary school exhibited enhanced social development. The key lies in the high-quality care providers present, who adeptly guide children through this transition while consistently monitoring their progress.

FLEXIBLE HOURS

Concerned about the crucial aspect of ‘child development’ during your extended absences? Worry no more. Many daycare centers offer flexible hours, operating from early morning to late evening. This flexibility enables you to drop off your children before work and pick them up afterward. Additionally, some daycare centers even provide overnight care for parents who require it.

THEY ENCOURAGE A SENSE OF ROUTINE

Daycare programs excel in providing childcare for various compelling reasons. At the forefront is their ability to instill a valuable sense of routine in your child. Managing an inconsistent schedule due to unpredictable working hours or other obligations makes it challenging to establish a consistent routine for your child. In daycare, they flourish within a specially crafted routine designed for them. Adhering to this routine will significantly benefit them in their later years.

SOCIAL INTERACTION

Finally, Daycare programs enhance the social skills of the attending children. As mentioned earlier, these social skills play a crucial role in preparing them for the upcoming kindergarten years. It’s worth emphasizing that daycare centers provide a secure environment for children to interact with peers from diverse backgrounds. This significantly contributes to the refinement of their social skills.

The significance of daycare centers goes beyond what you might realize, and the best daycare you can find in LA is Shir-Hashirim Montessori. They express gratitude to the parents who entrust them daily with the care of their children. They never take this trust lightly and exert every effort to support the development of kids, molding them into exemplary members of society.