Articles for Families

Understanding and Responding to Children Who Bite

Biting is a typical behavior often seen in infants, toddlers, and 2-year olds. As children mature, gain self-control, and develop problem-solving skills, they usually outgrow this behavior. While not uncommon, biting can be an upsetting and potentially harmful behavior that should be discouraged from the very first episode. This article will help you to understand the reasons young children bite and give you ideas and strategies for responding appropriately.

Why do young children bite?

There are many reasons why children may bite. A child might bite to

Playdough Power

Playdough Power

Squishing, rolling, sculpting, molding . . . Young children love to play with playdough, and playdough play is a great way to support their learning. It benefits children socially, creatively, and physically while building language and literacy, science, and math skills—all at the same time! Homemade or out of the can, this preschool staple can provide hours of fun and learning at home. All you need are a clear surface, a few kitchen utensils, and lots of time to play.

Everyday Steps to Reading and Writing

Did you know that children begin their path to reading as babies when they hear and respond to the sound of a human voice? Literacy, the ability to comprehend and communicate through reading and writing, begins with understanding the sounds in language. Listening, talking, reading, and writing are all parts of early literacy learning—and they’re all connected.

Books to Grow On

Growing minds need lots of nourishment, and books are excellent brain food! When you read together with your young child, things really start cooking. Reading together is relaxing and fun. And it is one of the best ways to strengthen children’s early literacy skills. These book suggestions and activities will let you and your child explore and investigate the world while enjoying time together.

Books for Laughing Together

Books for Laughing Together

Young children find humor in ridiculous situations, silly rhymes, and word plays. To get the joke, they need to use their thinking skills and draw on their knowledge and experiences; they must understand that a situation is absurd before they can find it funny. Sharing a joke is a great way to strengthen family ties. These books and activities will have you and your child laughing together in no time.
 

Books about Warm Weather Fun

These stories and warm weather activities will really heat up your day! They focus on playing outdoors, cooling off in the water, and visiting relatives. Vivid illustrations show children playing in city and country settings. But no matter where they live or travel to, children can relate to these stories.