Traditionally, dads are the playful, breadwinning parent — fun when they’re around, but they don’t act as the “main” parent. Nowadays, dads spend much more time with their children compared to previous generations and take a much larger role in taking care of the kids. But does any of that matter? Does his involvement amount to much? This article will share all the reasons why that answer is an emphatic yes! Bonding with Dad Matters! Parental love — from dad and mom both — can literally change the course of a child’s life. “Imagine if the hugs, lullabies and smiles from parents could inoculate ..read more

As a Reggio Emilia school, we ensure reading selections are age-appropriate, and we encourage families to ask their children questions before, during and after the book to help them connect what they heard or read. Fun tip: Ask your children to play or act out the plot. This brings the books to life and makes reading even more fun.  Our Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum, Creatively Shine, consists of fun, engaging monthly themes like “Music and Movement” and “Heart Healthy Lifestyle.”   The theme for June is “Magic in Motion: Explorin ..read more

Part of Little Sunshine’s Reggio Emilia Philosophy is the belief that children are collaborators in their own learning. One of the best ways to include your children in an active, educational way is by getting creative with them. For all the moms and spouses out there looking to build a special moment for your whole family this Father’s Day, roll up your sleeves, break out the crafting supplies, and get ready for some fun as you get creative with these 11 handmade gifts.  Put It on Paper As preschoolers learn to master their handwriting and coloring, use Father’s Day as an excuse for them ..read more

Moms are our number one heroes. When asked, children rank their mother as their heroes above anyone else. And while some might dismiss this as the “easy” answer,” research shows that moms quite literally are the most important people in the life of a child from birth to adulthood. So what makes moms so special? Read more to find out! Mom Bonds Are Powerful! There’s a reason why kids look to mom for so many things in life — the mother-child bond is powerful.  via GIPHY A mother’s love can literally change the course of a child’s life. “Imagine if the hugs, lullabies and smiles from parent ..read more

Parent involvement in a child’s education is critical in early childhood development and helping a child reach their full potential. Supporting evidence is overwhelming. Research shows parent involvement not only leads to higher academic achievement, greater cognitive and problem-solving skills.   Reading to your children also helps develop greater self-control, improved mental health, show advanced social and emotional development, become more resilient to stress, and have more positive relationships with their peers when their parents are involved in t ..read more

Ever pondered over the query – what is parallel play in children? Simply put, it’s a form of play that is often observed in children, particularly between the ages of 2 and 3. This type of play sees children engaging in similar activities in close proximity to each other, yet without any direct interaction. As kids start to socialize and explore their surroundings, parallel play forms an integral part of their journey. Although it might seem like individualistic play, it’s a rich source of developmental benefits. This post will delve into what parallel play in children is, its many advantages ..read more

Adults know it’s important to push through uncomfortable situations. But we also know it’s not a skill people are born with. “Grit” is learned. But how do you teach something as inherently uncomfortable as emotional stamina to kids? This article guides parents through the process of teaching and living a “gritty” lives so their kids can be more resilient as teens and adults.  Before We Start … A note to parents before you embark on the journey of teaching grit: Really consider your child’s age. If you’re the parent of an infant, this advice doesn’t even apply. It’s impossible to raise a ..read more

The Teacher of the Month award is designed to recognize an employee that exemplifies our core values, which are compassion, humility, integrity, loyalty, and discipline. This month we are pleased to announce that our 2024 March National Teacher of the Month is Ms. Tiffany of Little Sunshine’s Playhouse and Preschool of Gilbert at Val Vista. In talking about how Ms. Tiffany exemplifies LSP’s core values, Assistant Director, Ms. Kim said, “Mrs. Tiffany truly embodies what the Reggio Emilia philosophy is; she consistently brings incredibly thought provoking and fun activities to our Pre-K class ..read more

At Little Sunshine’s Playhouse and Preschool®, we believe play is the work of childhood. As a cornerstone of our Reggio Emilia-inspired curriculum, we understand the importance of play in early childhood development. Through various forms of play, children acquire fundamental skills and knowledge that lay the groundwork for future achievements. By engaging children in play, we stimulate cognitive, physical, and emotional growth. Through play, children hone problem-solving skills, improve motor skills and enhance emotional well-being. The significance of play in early education cannot be overst ..read more

Part of Little Sunshine’s Reggio Emilia Philosophy is the belief that children are collaborators in their own learning. One of the best ways to include your children in an active, educational way is by getting creative with them. For all the dads and spouses out there looking to build a special moment for your whole family this Mother’s Day, roll up your sleeves, break out the crafting supplies, and get ready for some fun as you get creative with these 11 handmade gifts.  Fingers & Toes Few things bring out the “ooos” and “awwws” like a homemade gift made with fingerprints and footpri ..read more