Latest Articles

  • Toddler girl sits on mother's lap, reading, while mother holds book and Storypod's Craftie Fox

    Why is Rhyming Such an Important Early Literacy Skill?

    Children love to rhyme. From catchy tunes to silly poems, the rhythm and sing-songy tones that naturally come out when rhyming are fun and do wonders for engaging their little minds. But did you know that rhyming is also an important part of learning how to read?

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  • Child engages in STEM education by playing with blocks and tools on the floor

    What is STEM and Why is it So Important?

    Standing for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, STEM has become a hot topic in recent years because of the prevalence of (lucrative) technology-centered careers all over the globe. Studies show that STEM careers have grown 70% since 1990 and the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 10.5% growth in STEM jobs within the next decade, a statistic that is only apt to grow as technology continues to advance. Because of its high demand, education has placed a strong emphasis for STEM-based programs and curriculum. In fact, the U.S. government has poured hundreds of millions of dollars into STEM education!.

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  • Father and daughter clean dishes together as a part of their cleaning routine

    Do Children Thrive with Routines?

    Whether you consider yourself a free-spirit or a highly organized individual, there’s no doubt that there are some routines you’ve put in place to help things run smoothly and efficiently in your life. From health routines to cleaning routines, regular and consistent steps help to bring about good results. Just like adults, children require routines to help them get through their day, too. But more than that, children actually thrive with routines because routines help them to learn, build confidence, and give them the feeling of security vital to experiencing a stable childhood.

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  • Kindergarteners raise their hands in the classroom

    7 Social Emotional Skills Your Child Should Have Before They Start Kindergarten

    When parents wonder if their child is ready for kindergarten, they are often thinking of academic expectations that they will need to meet in order to be successful. Although this is important, studies show that a child’s social emotional skills have more of an impact on their overall success than anything else.

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  • Sister kisses little brother on the forehead to make up after a conflict

    Teaching Conflict Resolution to Kids

    Although many of us would rather avoid it, the truth is that conflict is a normal and even healthy part of life. Navigating these uncomfortable situations is inevitable for everyone, including children. As with many things, the skills required to deal with these situations come with practice. Therefore, parents should take the time to coach their kids in proper conflict resolution as early as they can so that their child can grow into a confident, happy, and well-regulated adult.

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  • Three children engage in sensory play by exploring sand and toys in a sensory bin.

    The Importance of Providing Your Child with Rich Sensory Experiences

    In the early stages of life, the five senses are the most important tools that our little ones have to gather information about the world around them. As your child feels textures, absorbs shapes, and takes in new sounds, they are engaging in discovery, exercising their memories, and making connections.

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  • Child and mother's hands play a game of Jenga indicating bonding

    Promoting Development with Family Game Night

    Aside from the obvious benefit of family bonding, a game night actually develops important skills in your children. From motor skills to lessons in self-regulation, the rewards of engaging in this weekly practice will compel you to pull out the board games right away!

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  • An array of colorful toys are arranged carefully on a white background. Keeping toys organized through toy rotation is an easy way to combat overwhelm and avoid overstimulating your child.

    The Magic of Toy Rotation - An Easy Practice to Combat Toy Overwhelm

    Birthdays, holidays, doting grandparents, and everything in between — it's likely your child has a wealth of toys at their disposal given to them with the hopes of enrichment and engagement. And while playing with toys is certainly a great way for a young child to learn, too many toys can lead to overwhelm, overstimulation and, believe it or not, boredom. Fortunately, there's a simple solution!

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  • 6-Year-Old boy, accompanied by his sister, whips up some homemade dog treats to donate to an animal shelter. There are many charity projects children 6 and under can do to learn about giving.

    6 Charity Projects for Children 6 and Under That Will Teach Them About Giving

    Reflecting on one's privileges and those who may not be as fortunate is an important practice in gratitude that will serve your child well in life later on. It’s great to create charity-center traditions that will teach children important lessons about giving and compassion as it will lay down the foundation for a kind adult. The earlier your child can learn such values, the better, so read on to discover a few simple charity projects that allow you to involve the youngest members of the family!

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  • Smiling 4-year-old boy raises his hands in excitement. There are many ways to manage over-excitement when big events are on the horizon.

    Managing Excitement: Helping Your 4-Year-Old Regulate Big Feelings

    Children are naturally enthusiastic, so it’s no surprise that excitement runs high when big events like birthdays or holidays come around. While your little one’s excitement can be lovely to witness, there are times when these feelings can become too intense and lead to agitation, hyperactivity, and even disappointment. Look out for the signs of overexcitement and try out a few strategies when your child’s big feelings start to get a bit out of control.

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  • Toddler holds up blocks to see if they match. Matching and sorting are two important cognitive skills for young children to learn.

    Matching & Sorting - Why Strengthen These Cognitive Skills?

    Matching and sorting are two important cognitive skills that are essential for children's learning that develops at around 19-24 months. These skills help children understand and organize information, solve problems, and make decisions.

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  • Young boy sits at table with a Storypod and a book. Reading is one of the five important educational routines to start in the New Year.

    5 Educational Routines You Can Execute at Home

    The education your child receives at home is some of the most formative he or she will receive, as it creates a foundation for future learning and reinforces any lessons that may have been given at school. Create some simple, but fruitful, learning routines that will serve to progress your child’s educational development. These educational routines do not need to be complex or rigorous to be effective. Simplicity and consistency is key to garnering long-term results!

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