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There is a word we researchers use to refer to voluntary behavior that aims to help another, like sharing or providing comfort: “prosocial.” Although most parents and teachers would say they value prosocial behavior in children and want to encourage it, it is important to note that not all prosocial behaviors are equal. They can […]

Learning Care Group When my niece was six years old, she spent a week with me. Her favorite game was to write random letters in a line, push them in front of me, and ask, “What does this say, Aunt Shelle?” I would string the sounds together into a nonsense word that would send her […]

Learning Care Group I remember the day that I considered my son an official “reader.” He was in second grade and we were visiting Santa Claus at a local mall. There were banners detailing the history of Santa strung along the path on which we waited. I watched in utter amazement (and with a flash […]

“Grammy, the geese came back!” my four-year-old granddaughter exclaimed in a recent phone conversation. And while I am always delighted to talk with her, I was especially pleased to hear her story about seeing the geese this autumn. The story she told made it clear that her oral language abilities have reached a level that […]

I, like most parents, want my children to have all the tools they need to be successful in this world. And, what we know, is that literacy is so important in both academic and life pursuits. As a parent, and an early childhood educator, I know that we need to support children in becoming strong […]

School has started already here in Hawaii, but there’s no aloha in Aiden’s heart. Aiden is a new Kindergartener who started the year with enthusiasm, all ready for his “Big Boy Classroom.”  His first couple of weeks at school were a breeze – he loved his teachers, his classmates and activities.  But all of a […]

Battling back-to-school worries?  This time of year, parents have many questions – from how to transition from a laid back summer schedule to a busy school time routine, to concerns about discipline, behavior, and potty training.  Take a deep breath and take out your calendar.  Join a back-to-school live chat presented by Learning Care Group […]

Top Reasons You Should Encourage Your Child to Learn to Use Technology Positive uses of today’s technology can play a meaningful role in shaping your child’s future learning potential. Because a young child’s brain makes new connections each day, the experts at Discovery Kids Puterbugs share interesting information on why there is no better time […]

My son’s preschool teacher prevented a major meltdown the other day; it was a beautiful thing to watch. Two three-year-olds wanted the same toy truck. When she saw them angrily grab for it, she dropped to their level and gently touched their arms to get their attention. “Guys,” she calmly said, “looks like you both […]

Separation is hard for little kids, since we’re their lifeline. But if you show them that you and their teacher are partners, you’ll go a long way toward building trust and confidence in your child’s new classroom. Teachers and parents together make a powerful team that will boost your child’s success — both academically and emotionally.

Transitioning into kindergarten can be challenging for children. Children benefit greatly from home support as they enter this new phase of their education. The time and energy you spend helping your child’s first impression to be a positive one is time and energy well spent. Here are a few suggestions that will help make a […]

It is back-to-school time for you and your children again, or maybe for the first time! In the summer, we sometimes give children a break from routines. So getting ready for school again, and returning to consistent schedules, can sometimes bring on stress or anxiety for your family. Take steps now to make this transition […]