Monday, March 7, 2022

Kids 'R' Kids Explains the Importance of Kindness and Empathy in Kids

Teaching kindness and empathy to preschoolers

In a world where bullying and youth mental health are significant concerns, it becomes imperative for caregivers, parents, and teachers alike to foster a culture of kindness and empathy in children at an early age. Kids ‘R’ Kids shares the role of compassion and empathy in an individual's success and how caregivers can help build this quality in children.

Understanding and respecting another person’s perspective is the foundation for a kind and compassionate character. “Empathy is hardwired in us from birth through what's known as the mirror-neuron system, and we intuitively feel what others feel,” explains psychiatrist Kelli Harding, M.D.

If empathy is understanding, then compassion is acting on that understanding. Fostering a culture of kindness and empathy:

promotes kindness, cultivates empathy and understanding between individuals, leading to stronger relationships;
fosters trust in relationships wherein all individuals feel genuinely valued -- for who they are and what they contribute as unique individuals;
improves health, social competence, self-esteem, and even happiness;
helps children succeed in social settings, and connect and be involved with others more meaningfully; and

prevents bullying and fosters harmonious relationships.

Tips for Teaching Kindness

Model Kindness And Love

Children imitate their caregivers. So the best way to teach kindness is to practice it. When children observe their parents or teachers being kind to others, they also imitate this behavior. Service begins at home or in classrooms and spreads out into the world. Simple gestures like showing affection with hugs and kisses and saying please and thank you around the house greatly impact children. Moreover, it’s never too early to talk about kindness and generosity with children.

Encourage Kind Habits

Kindness and empathy are abstract concepts. But connecting them with concrete verbs and actions such as sharing, volunteering, giving, including comforting, supporting, championing, compromising, and listening, helps understand what kindness means. Helping a family member with a chore or offering a seat to an older person are great examples to share. These habits are intertwined with etiquettes and gracious actions such as saying please and thank you.

Inspire Their Imagination

To be in another person’s shoes and have the ability to empathize with another human being is a powerful skill. Inspiring children to imagine another person’s situation and feelings can help them resolve complicated real-life social problems as they grow up. Asking questions such as, “She fell and scratched her knee, what should we do?” Pretend play is also an effective way to practice empathy with kids.

Help Them See The Effects Of Kindness

Various studies have shown that toddlers enjoy giving treats more than receiving them because giving allows them to witness the joy a recipient feels due to the generosity. Children are hardwired to be kind. All they need is encouragement and the right environment. To teach them kindness and empathy, caregivers can involve them in activities where they can see the impact that they are making. Activities such as writing gratitude letters or thank you notes and donating food to charities allow them to see the effect of kindness.

Why Kids ‘R’ Kids?

The “Hug First, Then Teach” philosophy defines every aspect of what Kids ‘R’ Kids, Circa Fishhawk, stands for. Unlike many daycare centers or childcare providers, its methodology is a whole-child approach. It constantly strives to strengthen and encourage every child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the expertise of its childcare providers and a unique partnership with parents.

Kids ‘R’ Kids International is accredited by AdvancED®, the world’s largest education community, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Council on Accreditation and School Improvement (SACS/CASI). SACS/CASI is an accreditation division of AdvancED®. This accreditation ensures that the high accreditation standards are met and exceeded.

Call today at (813) 654-7000 to learn more about the Kids ‘R’ Kids before and after school programs (Kindergarten to Grade 5) or schedule a visit.

Wednesday, September 29, 2021

Kids 'R' Kids shares the significance of a routine in a preschooler's life

The importance of routine in a preschooler’s life

Children, just like adults, manage changes best if they are expected and occur within the premise of a familiar routine. A predictable routine forms the foundation that allows children to feel safe, and feel confident enough to handle themselves better. As they master this ability to handle smaller changes, they can slowly begin to manage bigger changes, which is important for their growth. Kids ‘R’ Kids, an educational preschool, explains different ways in which routines help foster happier and stable children.

Enhances confidence and independence: Knowing what to expect from daily life can help develop a child’s confidence. The past experience of being in the safety of a routine allows children to feel comfortable performing the same tasks with more confidence. For instance, keeping their shoes in place after school and changing their clothes before bedtime are tasks completed with assurance and efficiency.

Feeling of safety: Routine provides children with clear boundaries, expectations, and consistency. The predictability and familiarity that comes with routine offer the perfect ‘safe space’ that kids need. Preschools provide a form of routine to children but every day is also filled with uncertainties to help children learn to handle small to big changes in the safety of their school routine. This sense of safety ensures children are not overwhelmed with stress.

Greater self-control: A routine enables a child to strike a balance between fun tasks such as watching TV and functional tasks like brushing teeth. A routine that limits the time spent on enjoyable activities and fixes the time helps children move away from the instinct of instant gratification also. Eventually, children learn to take charge of their routine and chores.
Building healthy habits: Repetition of activities defined in a routine becomes the basis of good habits. Activities such as washing hands before meals, cleaning teeth, and taking a walk after dinner not only entail better time management but also allow the formation of habits that will be carried over into adulthood. Inculcating new habits becomes easier when paired with pre-existing habits that are a part of a child’s routine. For instance, a reading habit can be introduced just before sleep time making it easier to adopt.

Creating boundaries: A lack of routine gets in the way of respecting boundaries. It’s in a child’s nature to test boundaries. When a routine is created and habits are built around it, children understand the cause-and-effect concept. For instance, TV time cannot begin until lunch is finished or dessert is available only when all the vegetables are eaten. If there are no limits or habits set, children will be unable to regulate themselves and can ironically feel “out of control”.

This creation of boundaries is also important for the parents to manage their lives better and avoid the power struggle as much as possible.

Simple tips to create a routine for children

Every child and every family is different. Therefore, every routine should be designed based on a family’s unique situation and needs. Here are some basic outlines of a routine for a preschooler:

Getting ready for preschool
Getting ready for bed
Fixed meal times with family
Outdoor activities
Visiting friends and family
Holding a family game or movie night
Creative activity time
Doing family chores

Routines are crucial to give some structure and predictability to a child’s life but at the same time, a child should have time for free play. Free unstructured time allows children to manage unpredictability and change.

Why Kids ‘R’ kids?

The philosophy of “Hug First, Then Teach”, defines every aspect of what Kids ‘R’ Kids, Circa Fishhawk stands for. Unlike many daycare centers or childcare providers, its methodology is a whole-child approach. It constantly strives to strengthen and encourage every child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the expertise of its childcare providers and a unique partnership with parents.

Call today at (813) 654-7000 to learn more about the Kids ‘R’ Kids before and after school programs (Kindergarten to Grade 5) or to schedule a visit.

Contact Information:

Kids 'R' Kids Learning Academy of Circa / FishHawk

5815 Kids Crossing Drive
Lithia, FL 33547
United States

Keith Balot
(813) 654-7000
http://www.krkcirca.com/

Thursday, July 1, 2021

Kids 'R' Kids Talks About The Impact of Parent-Teacher Collaboration on Learning

The two pillars of education - Parents and teachers

Parents and teachers are the two most important influences in a young child’s life and development. Parents are a child’s first teacher as they can teach essential life and academic skills while providing love and support. Parents are also a crucial link between children and their preschool.

Several studies have proven that collaboration between parents and teachers improves children’s academic achievement, work habits, social skills, and emotional well-being. Especially since the pandemic, the collaboration between educators and parents has become the foundation of the early childhood education system in the ‘new normal’. It has become crucial for all the stakeholders to come together to support this partnership to ensure that children receive seamless education, irrespective of the pandemic.

Kids ‘R’ Kids, Circa Fishhawk discusses how positive parent and teacher partnership can impact student success:

Establishment of trust

Children become more invested in their classroom learning when they notice the positive connection between parents and teachers. The evident connection between both parties makes children develop a unique trust in their teachers.

The preschoolers see how their teachers involve and respect their parents. This connection allows parents and children to communicate about the classroom activity. This involvement from parents excites children and they look forward to sharing their successes.

Problem solving and teamwork

When there is an established trust and a connection between the three parties, namely the parent, teacher, and child, problems are simply challenges that can be overcome together. Tough discussions are not avoided as there is comfortable candor that has been developed over time. Teachers can freely communicate a student challenge while parents can instill more trust in the teacher’s perspective due to the prevailing connection. Additionally, preschoolers feel safe and comfortable about facing any learning challenges as they view the parents and teachers as their cheerleaders. All challenges are solved together as a team that is dedicated to the achievement of a common goal - the child’s learning and growth.

Meaningful wins

When there is collaboration, the preschoolers’ milestone achievements are more meaningful. The development of a motor skill, overcoming social anxiety, making new friends, the first stage recital, eating a meal independently - all these priceless accomplishments prove that the student, teacher, and parents are aligned in their goals and are a successful team.

5 ways parents can contribute to classroom learning

The teamwork between parents and teachers is the biggest boost for preschoolers’ learning as it creates a strong home-school connection. Here a few things parents can do to strengthen the school-home connection for their preschooler by collaborating with the preschool teachers:

Quality time

With work schedules running haywire with or without the pandemic, it may seem challenging to contribute to a child’s learning. But it is possible to fuse learning and fun into the time being spent with children. Being available during play dates, cuddling on the sofa while watching an animation, complimenting the child on their small yet meaningful achievements, doing no-fire cooking together, or just taking a stroll in the garden are several ways to bond with a child. These are quality activities that are beyond the daily chores and are very important for a strong parent-child bond. This constant connection enables a parent to be engaged in every aspect of a child’s life, including school. As children communicate more during these quality sessions, any challenges and hurdles in learning will also be discussed and resolved naturally.

Active partner in learning

Participating in a child’s education may have several meanings. It could mean helping children with homework, returning notes and sending project material on time, and attending a parent-teacher conference when needed. But it can include much more. For instance, working with a teacher to support classroom learning while simultaneously providing insight into the child’s psyche to teachers. Informing the teachers about the child’s routine, any recent changes, language barriers, or any significant information across the year helps a teacher address any gaps efficiently. This goes over and above the conventional involvement parents generally have in their child’s education.

Share knowledge with the class

Every household has its food, music, and traditions. Sharing the cultural picture with the class enriches the learning atmosphere for the complete class and builds a child’s self-esteem. As children grow older, they begin to see the diversity of the world beyond their home and this knowledge is a part of their learning and growth.

Discuss school experiences

The constant communication with the teacher provides insights into the topics and discussions in the classroom. Familiarization with the daily routines and activities at preschool will enable a fruitful discussion with the child. The themes and topics can be extended and new information can be shared to strengthen the concept at home.

Participate in events

Participation in field trips and classroom events such as potlucks, storytelling sessions, and class celebrations helps children create a stronger connection between home and school. Children love occasions where both their family and teachers, the two most trusted people, are under the same roof for some fun and exchange of ideas.

The collaboration between parents and teachers is intended to create a safe space for children where they can learn, have fun, and speak their minds. When parents and teachers are working together to support children’s learning, everything falls in place. Children make a strong home-school connection and become vested in their own learning. And that is a win-win situation for everyone.

Why Kids ‘R’ kids?

Call today at (813) 654-7000 to learn more about the Kids ‘R’ Kids for more information (Kindergarten to Grade 5) or to schedule a visit.

Thursday, December 31, 2020

Florida VPK program FAQ

Strong evidence shows that children who attend top-quality Pre-K programs are not only better prepared for Kindergarten but enjoy academic and social benefits that can last into adulthood. A recent study by the Learning Policy Institute showed that when compared to children who did not attend preschool, children who attend a Pre-K program are:

Less likely to be identified as having special learning needs or help in school
Better prepared for a structured school day
More grounded in math and literacy skills

To ensure that all children have an opportunity to attend preschool, Florida offers Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK), a free Pre-K program for 4- and 5-year-olds. Studies have shown that the most critical time in a child's brain development is before Kindergarten. All-day and after school programs run by an accredited preschool like Kids' R’ Kids Learning Academy in Lithia, Florida, help strengthen the intellectual, social, physical, and emotional skills of children while keeping them safe.

Top Benefits of Preschool

Florida started VPK in 2015 to help prepare children for Kindergarten and put them on the path towards academic success. Studies show that structured learning from all-day and after school, preschool programs results in:

Kindergarten-readiness and academic success

Research demonstrates that children who attend a high-quality, curriculum-based preschool are:

More likely to score higher in reading and math
More likely to graduate from high school and find employment
Less likely to have substance abuse issues or get arrested

Social and emotional development

Pre-K programs encourage emotional and social growth by teaching children to:

Share and take turns
Self-regulate emotions
Demonstrate empathy

Physical health

Through play-based learning, preschools help children develop fine motor skills and full-body movement, which results in:

Improved coordination and balance
Enhanced ability to write, type, and draw
Understanding of the role exercise and nutrition play in a healthy lifestyle

How to Participate in VPK and other FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about VPK:

Who is eligible? Children who are 4 years old before September 1
Who provides VPK services? Families can choose a local provider like Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy in Lithia, FL, or find one through the VPK directory
How many hours a day is a VPK program? A child can attend a maximum of 540 hours annually, and many providers offer flexible schedules, including before and after school programs
What is the cost? The VPK program is free, but providers might charge for additional childcare services
How do I register? Register for VPK here and then present your certificate of eligibility to a VPK preschool provider

Looking for a VPK Preschool in Lithia, FL?

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy in Lithia, FL, is a VPK provider that offers students much more than a daycare or after school care program. Its Pre-K program is designed to encourage academic, physical, and emotional growth through curriculum-based play and activities.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy, located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr., Lithia, FL 33547, has a strong history of satisfying parents by preparing their children for Kindergarten and future academic success.

Family-owned and operated, Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy offers a nurturing and safe environment that provides:

Online video monitoring of the child’s classroom

Creative and fun accredited learning programs
Nutritious snacks and meals prepared on-site
Gated playgrounds
Flexible drop-off and pick-up hours

Interested parents should call Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy today at 813-654-7000 or contact them online to schedule a visit.

Wednesday, November 25, 2020