Boston Parents Paper 2019 Preschool Guide

2019-20 Edition

BostonParentsPaper.com

From Babies to Toddlers to Preschool

Understanding School Philosophies • Extracurricular Activities Mistakes Parents Make With Siblings Making School Lunch a Success • Sick Day Plan • And More!

Our Vision Nuestra Visión

To create a truly significant and lifelong impact on the lives and passions of the children who will shape the future of our society.

What We Do Lo Que Hacemos

Pine Village educates and nurtures each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse bilingual community, so that every child develops a true passion for learning and an ability to engage in any environment and community.

The Results Los Resultados

Pine Village launches children on a path to global citizenship and offers parents of toddlers and preschoolers a modern approach to child development where the seeds of creativity, acceptance, and inclusion are planted and encouraged to grow.

TM

2014 WINNER

TM

2015 WINNER

TM

TM

2016 WINNER

2017 WINNER

TM

2018 WINNER

Our Neighborhood Schools

• Brighton • Brookline • JP - Revere St • JP - South St • Kendall Square

• Needham • Newton Highlands • West Newton • Porter Square • South End

enrollmentpvp@gmail.com 617-416-7763 www.MyBilingualPreschool.com 2

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

Contents What’s Inside School Basics 6

Early Childhood Programs

10 Help Your Child Make the Most of

Daycare and Preschool

Behavior 12 Why Cultivating Patience Matters 14 Mistakes Parents Make With Siblings

Nutrition & Health

16 Making Lunch a Success 20 Sick Day Plan

Enrichment

22 Be an Art Enabler 27 Choosing an After-School Activity

for Your Child

Directory

29 Preschool Listings

TM

Boston Parent 841 Worcester Street Suite 344 Natick, MA 01760 Tel/Fax 617-522-1515

Boston Parents Paper is published monthly by Parenting Media Inc. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer.

Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com

60,000 copies of Boston Parents Paper are distributed to more than 1600 locations in the region. Past issues are available on our website, www.BostonParentsPaper.com

PUBLISHERS Robert and Tracy McKean ART DIRECTOR Debbi Murzyn

Send letters to the editor or article submissions to editor@bostonparent. com. Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper.com/event/

ADVERTISING SALES Holly Castro, David Morney 2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

3

SCHOOL BASICS

YOUR GUIDE TO SELECTING THE BEST

hen your child is ready for daycare or preschool, you’ll want to find a place that’s both nurturing and stimulating. Here are some factors to consider when picking the right school for your child, as well as some questions to ask as you prepare for your tour.

4

Boston Parents Paper | 2018

ONCE THERE, TRUST YOUR FIRST IMPRESSION OF THE SCHOOL. IS THE PLACE CLEAN, WELL LIT AND ORGANIZED? Think about your child’s age and developmental stage. Many preschools accept children only when they’re at least 3 years old at the start of the school year, usually in September. Some preschools require children to be potty-trained and ready to “separate” from a parent, while others will work with families on both issues. Many preschools offer different schedules and options, from a two- to five-day week and half- or full-day classes, so that parents can choose which suits their schedule and comfort level.

Make a list of priorities in your preschool search. In many situations, price will be a major issue. Childcare facilities and preschools can cost between $5,000 and $25,000 a year. Check with the Massachusetts Department of Education on whether your family is eligible for state funds to help pay for preschool. Another important consideration is proximity. Driving across town to drop off your child only to pick him up three to four hours later will get old after a while. For parents who work, finding a school that offers extendedday care, year-round education or lunch programs will be essential.

Some childcare facilities and preschools will allow you to bring children along on the tour, while others may want your undivided attention and ask you to leave the kids at home. Once there, trust your first impression of the school.

Is the place clean, well lit and organized? Does the artwork look fun and creative? Many tours will be conducted after school hours, but you’ll get a much better sense of the school if you can visit while children are at play. By law, infant rooms must offer a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:3, toddler rooms a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:4, and for preschools a teacher-to-student ratio of 1:10 for full day and 1:12 for half day. But that doesn’t mean every student will thrive with that proportion. Consider your child’s personality. Can she assert herself to get the attention she needs, or will she benefit from having more teachers around? ■>>>

Important Questions to Ask the School and Yourself When looking at childcare facilities and preschools, ask yourself or the director the following questions:

The Program • Does the program have a clear statement of its goals and philosophy?

• Does it consider a child’s social, emotional and physical needs?

• Is the atmosphere warm, nurturing and accepting?

• Does the curriculum meet your child’s needs?

• Is the content culturally diverse and free of bias?

• Does the school offer a balance of individual, small-group and largegroup activities?

• Do activities encourage self-expression?

• Is there a balance between quiet periods and vigorous activities?

• Is there a routine to most days?

• Are expectations and limits clear?

• What is the discipline policy?

• Does the program have an up-to date state license? Is it accredited by the National Academy of Early Childhood Programs, a division of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAECP)?

Accreditation is a voluntary self-study of staff qualifications, physical environment, curriculum, parent questionnaires and observations by the director, staff and a representative of the NAECP.

The Teachers • What are the teachers’ qualifications?

• What is the ratio of children to teachers?

• Is there frequent staff turnover?

• Do teachers encourage and respond to children’s natural interests?

• Are they cheerful and patient?

• How do the adults interact with the children and with each other?

The Setting • Does it look safe indoors and outdoors?

• Can you imagine your child in this setting?

• Are the children happy, relaxed, feeling good about themselves and engaged in meaningful play?

• Does the setting foster productive interactions between children?

• Is there a wide variety of materials? Are they orderly and easily accessible?

• Do equipment and toys encourage individual and group play and improve motor skills?

• Are the walls covered with age appropriate artwork?

Parent Involvement • Is parent involvement welcomed and encouraged? How? • Will school staff refer you to parents whose children have attended the program?

2018 | BostonParentsPaper.com

5

Tobin Children’s sChool & The Tobin sChool

LEADERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

TOBIN CHILDREN’S SCHOOL

offers NAEYC Accredited full day, full year care for infants through PreK. THE TOBIN SCHOOL

offers NAEYC Accredited Morning Preschool and PreK programs, our innovative Junior Kindergarten option, and full day, private Kindergarten.

Contact us today to learn more!

Tobin Children’s sChool: 508-653-6300 • www.TobinChildrenssChool.org The Tobin sChool: 508-655-5006 • www.TheTobinsChool.org

WestWood Children’s sChool & tobin sChool WestWood

Defining Preschool Philosophies • Nursery schools and preschools can be privately or locally funded, secular or religious, and located in either private facilities or municipal buildings. Some schools operate under specific philosophies: • Child study centers at colleges and universities provide high quality education to children while offering a laboratory learning experience for college and university students.

LEADERS IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION

WESTWOOD CHILDREN’S SCHOOL

offers NAEYC Accredited full day, full year care for infants, toddlers and preschoolers.

TOBIN SCHOOL WESTWOOD

offers NAEYC Accredited full day PreK and our innovative Junior Kindergarten option.

Contact us today to learn more!

WestWood Children’s sChool: 781-329-7766 • WWW.WestWoodChildrenssChool.org tobin sChool WestWood: 781-329-7775 • WWW.tobinsChoolWestWood.org

6

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

• Cooperative preschools require parent involvement in the classroom. Parents serve as teachers’ aides for a few days per month or share in other routine tasks, such as bookkeeping and maintenance.

• Full-day programs (often called “daycare”) are located in an individual provider’s home or in a separate childcare center.

• Full-year preschools offer yearlong, full-day programs in some communities with on-going enrollment.

• Montessori schools use the approach that young children learn best through direct sensory experiences, such as manipulating blocks or pegboards. Teachers control the environment and the child moves from activity to activity at his own pace.

• Reggio Emilia schools emphasize a child’s symbolic language through drawing, dramatic play and writing. Great importance is placed on the partnership between school and home, and the classroom is very child-directed.

• Waldorf schools offer plenty of opportunity for dramatic, imitative and creative play, as well as an emphasis on practical activities, such as gardening and cooking. The focus is placed on developing the child’s senses.

elc.ad.bpp.17.qxp_Layout 1 3/16/17 12:47 PM Page 1

“I can’t wait to come back tomorrow!”

Learn, create, and explore at the JCC Early Learning Centers JCC Early Learning Center • Brookline/Brighton Godine Early Learning Center • Newton Gilson Early Learning Center • Sharon JCC Early Learning Center at Congregation Sha’aray Shalom • Hingham

bostonjcc.org/earlylearning Everyone welcome

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

7

SCHOOL BASICS

By Sandra Gordon

T

hese strategies can help ease your child’s jitters for an easy transition and lead to a successful year of fun times and good friends.

“Both daycares and preschools offer kids experiences they might not get at home, such as exposure to a larger social environment that can help them learn how to get along well with others,” says Cathy Keller, the director of a preschool and infant care center. Who knew that 18-month-olds could have friends? When kids go to daycare and preschool, their schedules tend to fill up with playdates and birthday parties.

Developmentally, kids who’ve done at least a year of preschool are more ready to jump into the learning environment of kindergarten, too.

“Preschool is an environment in which kids have the opportunity to use language in many different ways with others who are at the same developmental age,” says Jennifer Kurumada Chuang, the owner of a child care center and preschool. But, overall, preschool helps young, naturally egocentric kids learn how to exist with others in a classroom. “Preschoolers learn how to take turns, follow directions, pick up after themselves, stand in line, sit in a circle, raise their hand, use their words to express themselves instead of physically acting out and talk when it’s appropriate,” Kurumada Chuang says.

All told, your child’s early learning experiences can set the tone for years to come. To help your child prepare for daycare and preschool and reinforce the lessons he learns there, here’s the homework you can do that can make all the difference.

Pick the right daycare or preschool. “Separating from mom and dad can be tough for infants, toddlers

8

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

and preschoolers, though some kids display it more aggressively than others,” says Keller. To make drop-off easier, choose a daycare or preschool you feel good about. “Parents telegraph their comfort and confidence about the school in so many ways to their kids,” says Keller. If you’re happy with your choice of school and know that your child is in a good learning situation, your child will pick up on your confidence and be OK with it, too, even if he initially doesn’t seem to like going there. And keep in mind that separation anxiety is oft en more painful for you than your child.

“Children are amazingly adaptable,” Keller says.

Manage morning madness. To help make drop-off at daycare or preschool smoother, take the hassle out of your morning. Try doing what you can the night before, when you have more time to think the next day through. For example, fill out permission slips, write any notes to the teacher and checks for daycare or preschool, and put them in your child’s backpack or lunchbox. You can even set the table for breakfast and take out the breakfast cereal, if you want to. You could also check the weather forecast and let your preschooler set out the next day’s outfit, and give choices: “Do you want to wear the striped shirt or the orange one? Your blue jeans or sweatpants?”

As soon as you can, “Get your kids invested in the process with age-appropriate tasks,” says Mary Robbins, a licensed clinical social worker. To encourage your preschooler to begin to do these things on her own, praise her for a job well done, such as: “Wow! You picked your outfit by yourself? You’re getting to be such a big girl!” As your child masters one task, add another.

Eventually, she can help you pack her snack and her lunch the night before.

Stick to a routine. Whether your child is in daycare or preschool, establish a morning routine and stick to it. It might be: wake up, get dressed, eat breakfast,

have a short playtime together, doublecheck the backpack or lunchbox and leave the house. “Structured routines give children a sense of control. When they know what’s coming next, they’re less likely to procrastinate or become anxious about going to daycare or preschool,” Keller says.

Make a morning-routine poster for your family and put it in a common area, such as on your fridge. The poster should outline the order of tasks such as dressing, eating breakfast, putting on shoes and socks and brushing hair and teeth.

Use pictures to convey the message.

If your child dawdles even with a set routine, move up his bedtime and his wake-up by 15 minutes instead of trying to get him to conform to your schedule. Also, make sure he gets to bed early enough so he’s more apt to be up-and-at-’em in the morning. Keep in mind that infants 3 to 11 months need nine to 12 hours of sleep at night and a 30-minute to four-hour nap one to three times a day. Toddlers need 12 to 14 hours of sleep in 24 hours and preschoolers need 11 to 13 hours of shut-eye at night. >>> 2018 | BostonParentsPaper.com

9

“BEING READ TO IS THE SINGLE MOST CONSISTENT AND RELIABLE PREDICTOR OF ACADEMIC SUCCESS LATER IN LIFE.” —KURUMADA CHUANG.

Don’t dawdle. At daycare or preschool, say goodbye to your child calmly, give your child a kiss and hug and tell her when you’ll be back to pick her up, such as after lunch or her nap. Then walk out the door and let the teacher give your child some lovies so you can make a quick exit. At the end of the day, make sure you’re there to collect your child when you say you will be. “Kids that young can’t tell time, but they will know that if you always pick up after their nap and you’re not there until 5 p.m., that’s a big difference,” Keller says. Try to pick up at the same time every day, if possible.

Read, read, read to your child. “Being read to is the single most consistent and reliable predictor of academic success later in life,” says Kurumada Chuang. She recommends reading to your preschooler for 20 minutes every night at bedtime.

While you’re at it, stop every so often and ask your child a question about the story before turning the page, such as: “Gosh, why do you think she was sad?” or “What do you think is going to happen next?” Making reading more interactive makes it more fun and helps build your child’s comprehension skills.

Help your child learn to follow directions. To help your preschooler get the hang of following directions, practice at home by giving simple commands, such as “Please help me pick up your toys and put them in the toy box.” Then, encourage your child to follow through by offering an incentive to do whatever it is you’re asking.

Tell your child that he can play outside once he’s finished putting his toys away. An incentive helps him understand that following directions makes other fun activities possible. If he doesn’t follow your directions and, for example, put his toys away, calmly explain that he won’t be able to play with those toys for the rest of the day or go to the park. Keep it positive by focusing on how clean the playroom will look when you’re done.

10

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

Then praise him when he’s successful. “You followed my directions so well. Thank you for helping me put your toys in the toy box like I asked you to! That was so helpful.”

Help your child master sharing and turntaking. From ages 3 to 5, children tend to hoard coveted toys and objects. They’re not really ready to grasp the concept of sharing yet. But you can help your youngster practice by having her “take turns” with toys and praising her when she shares on her own.

To help her develop the empathy that true sharing requires, state what she did and how it makes others feel, such as: “Thank you for sharing. It makes your sister feel good when you share the ball.” Your child should be able to “own” special or new toys, though, so keep them out of sight on playdates or in her room away from siblings.

By kindergarten, children are capable of sharing well and taking turns. If your child isn’t there yet, help her get the hang of it by inviting a friend over for a cooperative task such as baking cookies. If things aren’t going well, calmly ask her to sit out. Pretty soon, she’ll get the idea and want to join in on the fun again. You can also read your child books about sharing and discuss them. In the classic tale Stone Soup, retold by Heather Forest, for example, two hungry travelers make soup from ingredients that everyone in the town contributes.

What makes it extra delicious is the sharing it took to make it.

Help your child make friends. If you get the sense your toddler or preschooler needs a little help in the social department, try hosting playdates with others your child likes or with whom he has common interests. Playdates offer an opportunity to break away from the group and foster individual

help things go smoothly, keep playdates to two hours; children start to get tired after that. And keep it simple by inviting just one child over at a time.

friendships. You might begin by asking your preschooler, for example: “How about a playdate with Bobby? I notice that he likes to draw, too.” If you’re not sure who to invite over first, ask your child’s preschool teacher if there’s anyone in the classroom who might be a good match for your child. Then, feel free to go from there and make the rounds so that your child gets the chance to know several children better.

To help your child play host, let him pick the snack and ask him beforehand what games and activities he and his friend might like to do. On the playdate, feel free to play along and stay close by to make sure everyone stays safe. But give your child and his friend the chance to play on their own, too. To

Hone your child’s listening skills. At the dinner table and during car rides, help your preschooler hone her listening skills by asking her to wait to speak until her brother has finished his sentence. When it’s her turn, remind her, “Now it’s your turn to talk. Thank you for being patient and for being such a good listener while your brother was talking.” Explain that being a good listener shows respect for the speaker, whether it’s her brother or her teacher and the other students at school who are trying to hear what the teacher has to say.

Mention that it’s a two-way street: When she’s a good listener, she’s showing the same kind of respect that she gets when others listen to her. If she continues to interrupt, keep reminding her that she’ll get the chance to talk. Becoming a good listener, like many things, can take lots of practice.

Focus on your child. When it’s time to collect your child, be really glad to see him. Make sure you’re not on your cell phone or otherwise distracted. “Pick-up should be all about your child,” Keller says. “Your child wants to know you’re super glad to see him and that you’ve been looking forward to it all day.” ■ Sandra Gordon is an author and freelance writer.

www.lesleyellis.org The Gift of a Year: Why An Extra Year of Early Childhood Education Matters

Wednesday, May 1 7:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Lesley Ellis School 34 Winter Street, Arlington 781-641-1346

Featuring Jennifer Gillette, M.A. Founder and co-owner of The Loved Child (TLC Family Center)

The program is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served and Jennifer will include time to answer any questions you may have.

You may wonder...is my child ready for Kindergarten? What type of program would be the best match for a child who has already attended Prekindergarten and is ready for a little more but not quite ready for Kindergarten?

What are the benefits of a Transitional Kindergarten program for children who are not quite old enough for Kindergarten or who just need a little more time before taking that next step?

In this workshop, Jennifer will talk about this developmental age group and the difference a year can make.

Accepting applications for the 2019 - 2020 school year for preschool - grade 8.

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

11

BEHAVIOR

By Deidre Wilson

P

ATIENCE REQUIRES SELF-CONTROL, a skill that kids learn as they grow. But lately, some parents and teachers worry that children are more impatient than ever.

They wonder why kids can’t seem to focus at school and always seem distracted, wanting to move on to something else.

Are we really raising a generation of children who come into this world automatically unfocused, or is the problem innately that we’re more distracted as parents with all of our gizmos and gadgets? After all, it’s hard to get frustrated with impatient children when we ourselves are exasperated when there aren’t enough bars on our cell phones to make a call.

12

Boston Parents Paper | 2018

Diane Levin, an education professor at Boston’s Wheelock College and author of Remote Control Childhood: Combating the Hazards of Media Culture (National Association for the Education of Young People, 1998), believes there’s an increasing sense of impatience among kids in the classroom. For her book’s second printing in 2013, Levin interviewed teachers about changes they’ve seen in young children. She kept hearing the same thing – that kids have trouble staying on task.

Calling it “problem solving deficit disorder,” Levin explains, “These are the kids who were born when the huge push for media for babies began.” The trouble, she insists, is that the more dependent kids become on computer screens or electronic toys, the harder it is for them to focus on solving a real-world problem.

On the other hand, Lawrence Cohen, Ph.D., a Brookline psychologist and play therapy expert, wonders if parents are fostering impatience in kids without realizing it. “We’re rushing our children a lot, and then they’re impatient with us,” says Cohen, the author of Playful Parenting (Ballantine Books, 2002). “They’ve picked that up from us because we’re oft en rushing them.” Think of it this way, he says: If you and your child are playing make-believe together, who’s done playing sooner? You are, most likely.

Torit

A Classical Education for the Future

Montessori

Infant, Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten

and Elementary through Grade 6

Early Childhood Campus

45 Province Street Downtown Boston

Preschool and Elementary

300 Cambridge Street Beacon Hill Boston

www.toritschool.org

WHATEVER THE REASONS FOR KIDS’ IMPATIENCE, COHEN AND LEVIN OFFER THESE TIPS: • Surrender to the moment. Whether your kids want to run from one zoo exhibit to another or just go through the entrance turnstile over and over, “join them in their world” and don’t try to push them too quickly to move on, Cohen says. You’ll be role-modeling patience.

• If your child never seems to focus on one thing for long, set aside time each week to go at his pace. “As hard as it is to bounce around from one thing to the next … stick with it a little longer and enjoy your kids,” Cohen says.

• If you have to say no to a child, acknowledge her frustration. “When we say no, there’s no reason we can’t be relaxed and light about it,” Cohen says • Nurture kids’ interests away from electronics.

Limit screen time, but offer something else the child can do instead. Make dinner together or do a craft project. Identify their interests and play alongside them, Levin says.

• When stuck waiting in line or in the car, play games to pass the time. Try “I Spy,” where you spot something of a certain color and the child must guess what it is. Plug into a ritual instead of a device.

Deirdre Wilson is the former senior editor of Boston Parents Paper.

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

13

8

BEHAVIOR

Common Mistakes Parents Make with Siblings

T

By Laura Markham

more than one at the same time. But raising siblings gets easier if we avoid a few common pitfalls that many parents make.

THE ONLY THING HARDER THAN PARENTING A CHILD IS PARENTING

We think that we’re supposed to fix We don’t set limits on behavior. the problem. Most parents feel pressure to figure Acknowledging our children’s feelings doesn’t mean

5

out who is right and who is wrong, so we can fix the problem. But our job isn’t to solve the problem; it’s to coach our kids so they can solve their problem. That’s how they learn the skills to work things out with each other, and with other people. Isn’t that liberating?

Effective sibling coaching means stating the problem without blaming either child, helping the kids with their feelings by empathizing and listening to each child, and coaching kids to voice their needs without attacking each other. Once you’ve done this, your children will feel better and will be able, with your support, to compromise on a solution that works for both of them.

1

We take sides. When you side with one child

We forget that we’re the role model.

3

We punish instead of empowering kids to repair. Punishing a child who has

wronged her sibling won’t make her want to act better next time, it will just harden her heart and make her more resentful. Instead, help the child with the emotions that drove the bad behavior, and insist that she find a way to “repair” the relationship.

We expect children to know how to work things out with each other – without our teaching them! Children

8

says “I hate her! Why did you ever have to get a baby?!” it can feel scary. But if you shut down his expression of those emotions, he doesn’t stop feeling them. He just stops expressing them. He might even stop admitting he has them, even to himself, which means he shuts the feelings out of his conscious awareness. But the emotions are still there, beyond conscious control, causing him to tease or pinch the baby, or to be obstinate with us. It’s far better to empathize: “It’s hard sometimes, having a baby in the house. I guess it makes you very angry sometimes to have to share me, and to have to be quiet so she can sleep, and to have to wait your turn ... it can be very hard, can’t it? You can always tell me when it’s hard, and I will always understand, and help you.”

4

shows that apologies given before the apologizer has gotten past his anger don’t help the relationship, because they aren’t perceived as sincere by the receiver and they’re resented by the giver. Instead, set an expectation that in your house, when something hurtful has been said or done, the participants “repair” the damage they’ve done to that relationship, once they’ve both calmed down and feel better. This might mean an apology, a hug, drawing a picture, helping rebuild the train track that was wrecked or running to get a cold washcloth for a sibling’s injury.

Kids won’t resist this if you help them work through their angry feelings before they’re expected to “make up” with their sibling.

7

Naturally you get upset when your children are fighting. But when we yell, we’re training our children to yell. So before you intervene with your kids, take a breath to calm yourself first. It also helps to say a little mantra to shift your perspective, like “It’s not an emergency.”

We don’t allow feelings. When your son

We force siblings to apologize to each other before they’re ready. Research

6

against the other – even when you’re 100% certain that child is in the right – you create more sibling rivalry.

That’s because even if they can’t articulate it, both children interpret your action as symbolically taking your love from one child and giving it to the other.

Instead, describe the problem you see, without blame or judgment: “I hear loud voices … sounds like maybe you two have a problem?”

“Is everyone having fun with this game? I see Kevin crying.”

2

that we allow all behavior. Every family needs rules about treating each other with kindness. It’s the parent’s job to step in physically when children are fighting, and to intervene to stop teasing or mean words, which can cause emotional damage: “Jasmine, the rule is no name calling. You can tell your brother you’re mad without hurtful language.”

aren’t born knowing how to express their needs without attacking the other person, or find a win/ win solution that works for both people. So if we want them to stop fighting and use their words constructively, we have to teach them.

Most parents make these mistakes, just because they’ve never thought about how children actually learn. But if you can retrain yourself, you’ll see your kids fighting less and enjoying each other more. You’ll be on the way to raising children who will be friends for life. n Dr. Laura Markham is the author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids: How to Stop Yelling and Start Connecting and Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings: How to Stop the Fighting and Raise Friends for Life.

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

15

NUTRITION AND HEALTH

Before your child starts a new childcare or preschool program do some practice lunch runs at home. You will better understand the items your child is comfortable eating and see how he is able to open, or not, the containers you are planning on sending. Learn where his lunch will be stored at the new school and what the signal and process will be for lunchtime. Practice having your child retrieve his lunchbox, sitting down at the lunch table and taking out his napkin before eating.

Walk you child through proper table manners in a group situation. Some programs have children sit

16

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

and wait for all of the kids to be present at the table before allowing children to begin to eat. If your child doesn’t have any experience with lunch boxes, food containers and water bottles have your child experiment with the opening and closing the containers and when done putting all items back into the lunch box and back into a backpack to go home.

Be sure to get a lunchbox and food containers that are easy to open, close and stay closed. You don’t want your child opening his lunchbox in which the

inside is covered in yogurt. Most early education programs teach recycling and healthy eating and promote a zero waste environment. When possible remove food from packaging and store in small reusable containers. Prepare food the way you would serve it to your children at home. For example, cut oranges, peel apples, peel eggs, etc. if that is the way your child eats them at home. Put a slit in a banana for ease of opening. Many programs send home all uneaten food so the parent can understand what is eaten. Make sure the food and drink you pack allow for this. Also, find out how lunch boxes are stored at school. Is there a refrigerator for storage or do lunches need a freezer pack.

Go for hand-held, bite size options. Children may still be learning to manage utensils. Finger foods are easier and quicker to eat. Quick eats are important with limited time to eat as well as a table full of distractions with other toddlers present. Try to avoid individually wrapped items like fruit cups (high in sugar) or bags of chips. Many items can be bought in bulk and packed in reusable containers. Skip your child being isolated to the nut table, if nuts are even allowed, by not packing them. >>>

Our mission is to create an early childhood program that fulfills the cognitive, emotional, social and physical needs of what is known to be the most significant period of human development.

Friends Childcare offers an exciting, creative curriculum, as well as fun and stimulating learning activities for all age groups. Tailor-made schedule 7AM-6PM, 5 days a week.

Regular in-house enrichment programs, such as nature exploration, music, gross motor program, and baby massage are included in the tuition.

• Infants

(Birth to 15 Months)

• Toddlers

(15 Months to 33 Months)

• Preschool/ Pre-Kindergarten (33 Months to 5 Years)

Brookline • 617-731-1008 • 617-739-0854

Call or email us to schedule a tour • friendschildcare.brookline@gmail.com www.friendschildcare.net

Infant (1 month) through PreK Open Year Round Mon–Fri • 7am-5:30pm We offer a pleasant mix of fun & education to develop young minds!

• Breakfast, lunch & snack prepared on site • Two age appropriate playgrounds & large indoor play space • Individual classrooms with well-rounded curriculum including: fieldtrips, computers & music class

The Village Pre-School 25 Cummins Highway, Roslindale

617-323-5141 2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

17

< Making Lunch a Success­cont'd

Big portions or too many choices in a lunch box can overwhelm a child, especially little ones. This can even lead to a child not being able to figure out where to start. Small portions are more doable. Five grapes is a lot more manageable than a big bunch!

You may find that the less you pack, the more food your child will eat.

Most programs don’t allow sweets in lunches. Even if sweets are allowed, do you want your child filling up on dessert or juice and not eating the healthier choices? Do everyone a favor and leave dessert for home.

Have a go to, healthy food option list available in your kitchen in a spot that is easy to see. I know that sometimes, in the morning panic of getting the family out of the house, having that list saved me

from packing non-nutritious options. Also, always clean out your child’s lunch box the same day. In the morning, there is nothing worse then going to pack a lunch box and having it still full of smelly containers or squashed banana from the day before. Some parents are so organized that they have the lunch box ready to go the night before. One less thing to handle in the morning, right?

One lifesaver we have is a spare set of lunchbox, food containers, freezer packs and several water bottles. As much as you plan there will be a day when the lunchbox or water bottle won’t come home.

Use the weekends and extended holidays to deep clean the lunch boxes and water bottles. To clean a lunch box, simply wash using a sponge and warm, soapy water.

Leave upside down to air dry. To deodorize a smelly lunch bag or box, simply leaving baking soda in it overnight, then dump out and wipe clean in the morning.

To clean a water bottle dilute 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar with a cup of water. Poor into the water bottle and let sit for 15 minutes. Use a bottle brush to scrub, rinse and let dry.

INFANT-TODDLER CENTER & PRESCHOOL

Serving children from 2 months - 6 years old • 2, 3, or 5 days a week • Half day or full day • Early drop off • School year, summer, or full year programs!

New preschool program available: 8:30 am – 12:30 pm Your child will enjoy daily age-appropriate activities as well as optional enrichment programs including Spanish, Yoga, Amazing Athletes, Gymnastics and more!

Call now to schedule a visit!

Infant/Toddler Center • 13 Bates Rd. • Watertown | Preschool • 226 Mt. Auburn St. • Watertown

617-926-1434 • www.stepcare.net 18

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

TM

2018 WINNER

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

19

NUTRITION AND HEALTH

Plan on Sick Days...

They Will Happen!

I

t is inevitable that working parents with a

young child will sooner or later have to cope with their child being ill. Parents need to develop a plan that allows them to manage the difficult problem of caring for their sick child in a way that: • Decreases stress for the child • Eases tension and guilt for the parent • Makes business run smoothly for their employer

How Sick is Too Sick for Child Care or Preschool?

Children suspected of having a communicable disease such as chicken pox, measles or strep throat may not be placed in child care. Furthermore, children exhibiting symptoms of illness such as undiagnosed rashes, sore throat, vomiting or diarrhea also should

20

Boston Parents Paper | 2018

not be in care. These guidelines apply to both childcare and preschools. When enrolling your child, discuss the caregiver’s sick child care policies.

Be Prepared: Before your child gets sick, consider what your choices will be. After thinking about your commitments, you will know what problems you face in caring for your child when he or she is sick.

Caring for the Sick Child Yourself: This is likely the very best choice for your child.

What are the policies regarding use of sick leave at your workplace? Can you rearrange your schedule at work or school or bring work home? If two parents care for the child and have flexible schedules, you may want to share equally in caring for the child during an illness.

Get acquainted with several alternate caregivers before you need them. The better acquainted you are with each other, the easier it will be for your child when sickness occurs. Check in advance about transportation arrangements and fees.

Other Options:

Finding an Alternate Care Situation: Most working parents will need to call on an alternate caregiver to provide care for their sick child. Search for a dependable adult whom the child knows and likes. Likely prospects are relative, friends, neighbors, retirees, and college students.

Some child care centers, such as Bright Horizons centers offer drop-in or emergency child care for families who live nearby and are looking for safe, high-quality care as well as engaging and fun activities for their children when their regular caregiver is unavailable.

These centers are specially designed to help children feel safe and secure, and to ease the transition into their new environment.

Before your child gets sick, consider what your choices will be. After thinking about your commitments, you will know what problems you face in caring for your child when he or she is sick.

Children suspected of having a communicable disease such as chicken pox, measles or strep throat may not be placed in child care. Furthermore, children exhibiting symptoms of illness such as undiagnosed rashes, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhea also should not be in care.

These guidelines apply to both childcare centers and preschools. When enrolling your child in preschool or childcare, discuss and understand their sick day policies and have a plan.

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

21

ENRICHMENT

Nurturing a Child’s Interest in

Visual Arts

By Cheryl Crosby and Denise Yearian

A

t some point in time, nearly every preschooler picks up paper and crayons and begins to draw out disjointed circles and haphazard lines. Although this may appear to be random doodling, it could be the beginning of a lifelong love of the visual arts. Even if your child isn’t a budding Botticelli you can nurture a love and appreciation for the fine arts. So where do you begin?

Amy Briggs, assistant director of visitor learning and experience at Danforth Art Museum/School in Framingham, believes art appreciation begins with everyday experiences

22

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

Making art is a personal expression of ideas and feelings, so if a child wants a purple tree in the picture I say go for it. early on. “Visual stimulation – and the building of a visual vocabulary – really begins at birth. Much of a young child’s biological and cognitive development involves learning to visually interpret the world around him/her,” Briggs says. “A parent may sit with a young child in [her] lap, and while looking through a picture book point to various images and identify objects or animals by labeling them

out loud – ‘cat,’ ‘house,’ ‘flower.’ This type of experience is building an oral vocabulary, but it is also contributing to a child’s visual literacy. By building a visual vocabulary children become appreciative of colors, textures, shapes and lines all around them.”

For 9-year-old Devon Godek, this came naturally. “From the time she was 3, Devon would say, ‘Daddy, look at the colors of the sunset,’ or ‘Look

Temple Shalom Nursery School

SEPTEMBER 2019

NOW

ENROLLING 7:45 to

5:30

ABOUT US Our students develop robust learning dispositions in a nature-rich environment with a meaningful sense of belonging and community.

Our devoted educators expand children's interests into sophisticated play and inquiry projects.

We create a warm and welcoming school culture by honoring every child, celebrating the diversity of ideas and personal identities.

Contact Lucy Banerji at lbanerji@templeshalom.org for more information! www.templeshalomnursery.org,

175 Temple Street, Newton MA

Little People’s Playhouse

Educating and caring for your child like their own!

15 mos. to 6 yrs. • Pre K • Kindergarten Before & After School Ages 6-12 • 7am - 6pm Part-time Preschool • 7am - 1pm ♦ Literacy based academic program focusing on the whole child ♦ Tutoring available ♦ Catered hot meals included

ONGOING ENROLLMENT

www.peopleplayhouse.net 32 South Fairview Street ♦ W. Roxbury/Roslindale Line ♦ 617-323-2566 4019 Washington Street ♦ Roslindale/Jamaica Plain ♦ 617-323-6144

GET THE BEST REPORT CARD YET! GET AHEAD IN MATH & READING. Join us as we play math games, read books and apply our studies to our daily lives.

Call in today to reserve a slot!

TM

2016 TOP 5

32 South Fairview St., Roslindale, MA

617-323-2566 SPACE AVAILABLE

Celebrating 32 Years of Excellence

Accepting Applications Infant • Toddler • Preschool • Pre-Kindergarten EARLY EDUCATION PROGRAMS Full- & Part-Time Childcare • 2 mos. To 5 yrs.

Open 8:00am – 6:00pm Infant Care Is Now Available!

On-site drop off parking • Fenced-in roof-top playspace Outstanding Teacher-Child Ratios Professionally qualified Early Education Teachers State Transportation Building 10 Park Plaza, Boston MA 02116

617-973-8200 Transchildrencenter.org

• Open to General Public • EEC Licensed #8117338 2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

23

at the design in the clouds.’ Then she would try to draw them,” says Joe Godek of his daughter. “It was obvious even from preschool that her work was more intricate than other kids her age.”

Valerie Schulte had a similar experience with Maggie, now 5. “From a very early age, my daughter was extremely creative,” says Schulte. “At 2, she was enthralled with crayons and moved quickly on to finger paints. She also loved to manipulate clay. Even now when she plays waitress, she takes our orders and draws pictures of what we want.”

Experts agree Maggie and Devon both display signs of an artistically gifted child.

“If your child prefers drawing to most other activities, if you see an astute observation reflected in the images he or she creates, or if you notice a sophisticated or advanced use of a medium, your child will likely have great success with art making as he or she grows,” says Noelle Fournier, children’s studio education

24

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

coordinator at Danforth Art Museum/ School.

Even if a child doesn’t initially display extraordinary artistic skill, it’s a good idea to continue exposing him to the arts.

“Messing about with art materials offers all children the chance to have success, to try new things, to expand their horizon,” says Sarah Fujiwara, executive director at Brookline Arts Center (BAC) in Brookline. “We see children at the BAC who have deep curiosity and express their feelings, thoughts and ideas in their art – they can explore and reflect challenges, joys and all ranges of emotions.”

Schulte hit this roadblock with her son, now 11. “When Jack was little, he enjoyed coloring like most kids. But by the time he was 4, it was apparent he was all about sports,” she says. “That’s when the struggle began to get him to participate in creative projects.”

A primary goal in education is often to extend the learning experience so if your child is interested in cars, making ramps, garages or

race tracks, all can become an art experience,” she explains. “Decorate the track, paint the garage, put signs and graphics on the garages and make a map to go with the cars. When my boys were little, they were into Ninja turtles.

Those turtles ‘needed’ sewers, clothes and places to explore so we gathered all the cardboard, paint, tape and scissors we could find and the boys designed forts and underground caves.

They were exploring design, color, problem solving and writing.”

What’s most important is that you encourage, but don’t push. Be careful with correction, too.

“On a few occasions, I’ve tried to correct Devon’s work, but it wasn’t well received. She’s her worst critic,” says Godek. “Now I ask questions to stimulate discussions and she responds better.”

Fournier and Fujiwara both think accentuating the positive is the best approach. Praise the process and point out positive features of each piece. And don’t be concerned if something is a little “off .”

“‘Perfect’ art from a child is exactly whatever the child makes,” says Fournier. “Making art is a personal expression of ideas and feelings, so if a child wants a purple tree in the picture I say go for it!”

“All parents/teachers/others have made the mistake of saying, ‘I love the house you made’ to have the child say, ‘It’s not a house. It’s a motorcar,’” Fujiwara adds. “We should say, ‘Tell us about your drawing.’ Then compliments should be real. ‘I love the way you used red paint all over.’ We don’t want to limit them – let them explore.

This is not about perfection; it’s about trying new things, exploring and playing.

One way Schulte encourages Maggie “She really enjoys being with other kids who are working on the same project,” she says. “She’s just realizing her individuality and how everyone’s work turns out differently because they all have their own styles.”

Another way to instill a love for the arts is to visit art museums.

Many facilities in Massachusetts cater to children with kid-friendly audio headsets, printed booklets and/ or guides, and free passes are often available from libraries. Even if the museum you visit doesn’t have these offerings, you can create impromptu games such as “scavenger hunts” for various shapes, colors, animals, portraits and/or landscapes. Keep the experience upbeat and fun, and leave before boredom sets in.

“There is also a tremendous amount of public art around Greater Boston that is accessible any time,” says Fujiwara. “Places like deCordova with its sculpture park. Look at Boston Public Garden and the ‘Make Way for Ducklings’ ducks, or the playgrounds in Brookline and other towns. They are designed by architects and are playful, artistic and can be a delightful place to play but to also appreciate artistic endeavors and art.”

What if repeated attempts to encourage your child in the visual arts are met with failed endeavors? Back off and try something else, such as

dance, music or theater. “I didn’t set out to make my girls artists.

I just wanted to give them a well-rounded education and help them develop an appreciation for all things,” says Godek. “Devon and [her sister] Taylor have both taken dance and are learning to play the keyboard.

We take them to plays, too. I think if you expose kids to a variety of opportunities, sooner or later you’ll start to see their interests emerging.” ■ >>>

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

25

A WELL-ROUNDED APPROACH

various mediums. Date the top of each page.

• Do art alongside of your child. Family parVisual and performing arts are a ticipation will encourage her to continue. way for children to creatively express themselves. They also encourage • Find books or other resources that give social and academic development. the history of famous artists. Learning Even if you don’t have formal trainabout their lives, the period they lived in ing or special talent, you can still and their culture more than likely affected nurture the arts in your child. their subject and style.

TRY THESE TIPS:

For Visual Arts • When your toddler is ready, give him chunky crayons and large paper to experiment with. As he grows, provide a variety of materials and keep them accessible for use at any time, including markers, colored pencils, colored paper, large rolls of paper for murals, watercolors, tempera paints, modeling material, craft sticks, glue, scissors, old magazines, wall paper samples and fabric scraps for collages, stickers, stencils, ribbons, glitter, wood cuts and nature items.

• Look for art all around you. When you are outside, point out trees and the effects of the sun on nature. Comment on the colors of the sunset and design of the clouds.

Visit park statues and city murals. Ask your child if he wants to draw what he sees.

• Purchase a sketchbook and encourage your child to draw one picture a day using

26

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

• Encourage your child to tell stories with pictures rather than words.

• Use your child’s other interests as springboards for art projects. If he likes photography, give him a digital or disposable camera and have him take pictures, make a collage or try to draw a depiction of the image he sees.

For Performing Arts • Have a box of old clothes and accessories on hand so your child can play dress up.

• Encourage her to pretend to be an animal or object. How would the animal move?

What would it sound like? What would the personality be like? Make up a story and act it out.

• Encourage your child to pantomime rather than tell stories.

• Have him create hand puppets and put on a puppet show.

• When she is young, create simple, repeatable dance steps and encourage her to engage in rhythmic movement to music.

As she gets older, have her create her own routines.

• Help your child become familiar with differences in pitch and encourage him to sing songs.

• Purchase simple rhythm instruments your child can experiment with. Or have her create her own with simple household materials.

• Expose your child to various instruments at your local music store or at a symphony’s musical petting zoo.

• Let your child try a variety of musical instruments. Rent until he is ready to commit to playing long-term.

• Encourage him to write a skit or find a play he can do with friends or siblings.

Make it into an all-out production by creating tickets, providing snacks and inviting family and close friends.

• Attend local dance, music and theater performances. After the production, discuss the event with your child. What did she like about it? What didn’t she like?

Cheryl Crosby is the former editor of Boston Parents Paper. Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines.

ENRICHMENT

By Cheryl Crosby and Denise Yearian

CHILDREN’S INTERESTS AND ACTIVITIES ARE AS DIVERSE AS THE CHILDREN THEMSELVES. Just as the right activity can build a child’s self-esteem and provide hours of enjoyment, the wrong one can do just the opposite. So how do you find the right sport, club or music program for your child?

T

his was the dilemma Susan Benzel faced with her young children. “My kids weren’t gregarious about asking to participate in an activity,” says Benzel. “We exposed them to a variety of things I thought would be developmentally good for them, hoping they would find something they enjoyed.”

Jeanne Ruckert Lovy, assistant vice president of young children and their families at the Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston, thinks variety is a good idea, particularly for the younger set.

“Classes are a great way for children to try new things,” she says. “Preschool children love to develop and demonstrate mastery and competence, and activities involving new skills, such as sculpture building, ballet, soccer or LEGO robotics, are great ways to help children feel confident and proud.

“If your child is interested and flexible, it’s fine to try many activities, but it can also be meaningful to stick with one or two and let your child grow through them with a group of friends or a favorite instructor,” Lovy continues. “Either can be beneficial. If something is going well, don’t feel you have to abandon it because you feel children need variety. Alternately, if something is not going well, don’t force your child to repeat it; find something new.”

Lovy also recommends that you start by thinking about your child’s strengths and learning style before signing up for an activity. “Consider your child’s temperament and the ways he or she best approaches new situations,” she says. “For example, the open gym class that worked

well for your neighbor’s child might feel overwhelming to a child who is sensitive to noise. Start with a smaller classsize or a targeted instruction class like yoga, martial arts or dance, and then work up to a larger group.

Alternatively, if your child is very active and requires a lot of support in a group setting, an intense sitdown class like computers or watercolors might not be the best fit.”

This is the reason Rebecca Kranson signed up her son for soccer when he was 5 years old. “Angelo has always had such a high energy level that we thought moving up and down the soccer field would be a good fit,” says Kranson. “We had considered baseball but, at the time, thought the game moved too slowly for him.”

Another consideration is your child’s personality. Is he more suited to group or individual activities? “Try both group and individual activities to see what feels best for your child,” Lovy recommends. “Determine your goals before making a selection. If your goal is to help your child in social settings, seek out a group experience with an experienced and kind instructor. Individual activities are great for building a skill or competency, like swimming, but less effective for group interaction. They can also be good for a child transitioning to his or her first class experience.”

Carol Scott , a 4-H youth program director, agrees.

“In groups, kids learn to be cooperative players and are responsible for one another,” she explains. “In an individual setting, they can move at their own pace and feel a sense of personal accomplishment at what they have achieved.” >>>

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

27

Benzel found this to be true with her son Brock. “He always loved music and rhythm but had never had piano lessons,” she recalls. “One day, his friend came over and started playing our piano. Brock said, “I can do even better.’ I started him in lessons and within months, he had surpassed his friend’s skills. I never have to ask him to practice. Lessons are the highlight of his week.”

But Benzel admits lessons, practices and commutes whittle away time, which is why she always considers time commitments before enrolling her children in activities.

“My life is one big jigsaw puzzle with work and family responsibilities,” she says. “I have to carefully place on the calendar where everyone is going and have an A and B plan in case my husband can’t help out.”

While having your child participate in a variety of activities is great, Lovy warns about filling up your family’s schedule with too many activities. “Even though choices can be difficult, it’s sometimes better to choose just a few things to focus on, rather than have your child scheduled every afternoon with a different activity,” she says. “Downtime and family time are important, too.”

Also important is finding an organization that matches your goals and objectives with regard to student-teacher ratios, instructors’ experience, teaching philosophies and student expectations.

“Before enrolling your child in an activity, explain the commitment to him so he knows what is expected,” says Scott . “Then if the activity doesn’t work out, talk with your child about what he didn’t like so the mistake isn’t repeated in the future.”

After enrolling, prep your child for the new activity before the first meeting or lesson. “Share your excitement about the activity without overselling it,” Lovy says. “In most cases, the point of classes is to have fun and gain

new skills, so those are things you can mention to your child.

Post photos on the fridge, printed from the website, as a visual reminder of what’s coming up. If there is high anxiety, it’s a red flag to consider an alternate class that would be a more comfortable fit. Once a class has begun, make sure to show interest in what your child is doing. Ask about the class, celebrate successes and be as sensitive as possible to issues if they arise.”

Most importantly, if something doesn’t work out, view it as a learning experience, not a failure. Maybe athletics isn’t your child’s thing, but music is. Or maybe it’s art or science or cooking or sewing. And don’t be surprised if it takes several tries, a few seasons or a couple of years.

“My oldest daughter, Meghan, didn’t find something she truly adored until she was older, and it’s volunteering,” Benzel concludes. “Even if my kids don’t ever find their niches, I’ll keep exposing them to different things so they grow up with a storehouse of experiences from which to draw.” ■

WHERE TO GO Cooking • Create a Cook, createacook.com • Heirloom Kitchen; heirloomkitchen.com

Dance & Gymnastics

• All That Jazz Dance Studio; allthatjazznewton.com • Exxcel Gymnastics and Climbing; exxcel.net • Massachusetts Gymnastics Center; massgymnastics.com • Paulette’s Ballet Studio; paulettesballetstudio.com • Tony Williams Dance Center; tonywilliamsdancecenter.com

Music

• All Newton Music School; allnewtonmusicschool.com • Brookline Music School; bmsmusic.org • Children’s Music Center of Jamaica Plain; jamaicaplainmusic.com • Community Music Center of Boston; cmcb.org • Keys for Kids; keys-for-kids.com • Longy School of Music; longy.edu • Music Together; musictogetherma.com • New School of Music; newschoolofmusic.org • Piano Playtime; pianoplaytime.com • Sprouting Melodies; sproutingmelodies.com • Yamaha Music School of Boston; ymsboston.com

28

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

Sports

✼ Alpha Martial Arts Academy; alphatkd.com ✼ Appalachian Mountain Club; outdoors.org ✼ Boston Rock Gym; bostonrockgym.com ✼ Guard Up! Family Swordsmanship; guardup.com ✼ My Gym; mygym.com

STEM

• Center for the Advancement of STEM Education at Bridgewater State University; bridgew.edu • Einstein’s Workshop; einsteinsworkshop.com • LEtGO Your Mind; letgoyourmind.com • Russian School of Mathematics; russianschool.com • The Math Club; themathclub.com • The Science Works!; thescienceworks.com

Various Programs Available

• Jewish Community Centers of Greater Boston; bostonjcc.org • LINX; linxclasses.com • The Boston Conservatory; bostonconservatory.edu

Helpful Tips & Advice ✼ • Consider time commitments. How much family time is com-

mitted now? How much will this activity entail? Will personal practice time be expected?

• Add up the cost. Think about uniforms, trips and other expenses not covered in the initial fee.

• Stop by for a visit if the program has ongoing instruction. Sit in on a session and observe it in progress. Does the instructor interact with the students? Does she use positive reinforcement?

Are the students listening and attentive? Do they seem happy? Is the program geared for the skill and developmental level of the children?

✼ • Ask about introductory classes. Many ongoing programs offer introductory classes with no commitment. This allows your child to become familiar with the program and serves as a screening process to see if the instructor is running the program at the

children’s level.

✼

• If your child has taken up an athletic activity, such as soccer, but didn’t like it, try a different sport. If he played the saxophone and didn’t tune in, try a new instrument. Or choose something completely different.

Cheryl Crosby is the former senior editor of Boston Parents Paper.

Denise Yearian is the former editor of two parenting magazines and the mother of three children.

PRESCHOOL LISTINGS Beacon Hill Nursery School

74 Joy Street, Boston • 617-227-0822 www.bhns.net Beacon Hill Nursery School was founded nearly fifty years ago and began as a parent cooperative and a community effort. Today, BHNS retains that strong sense of and commitment to the community - the community within its walls, the community within the neighborhood, and ultimately the community at large. Family involvement is an essential element of our program, and every effort holds a unique value, contributing to the foundation, diversity, and strength of our community. A positive atmosphere created by a healthy, supportive community increases the ease with which all learning occurs, and the partnerships between the staff and families benefit our children in ways no other factor may.

The Blue Hill Montessori School

163 Turnpike Street, Canton • 781-828-5230 www.bluehillmontessori.org At BHMS, we believe children learn naturally about themselves and their world through exploration and discovery. From their inception, Montessori schools have used materials and

methods designed specifically to encourage this natural learning and to help children become self-motivated, independent learners for life. Our School seeks to a provide a balanced curriculum in practical life skills, sensorial ability, mathematics, language, science, geography, computer study, music and the cultural arts.

Cambridge-Ellis School

80 Trowbridge St., Cambridge • 617-354-0014 www.Cambridge-Ellis.org The Cambridge-Ellis School provides a warm, stimulating early-school experience in a joyful, loving environment built upon a foundation of trusting relationships with a diverse group of children and families. We promote the optimal development of the whole child through a creative, play-based, emergent curriculum; an emphasis on arts and outdoor play; and immersion language offerings.

The Children's Workshop - Bourne

536 MacArthur Blvd., Bourne • 508-563-3400 childrensworkshop.com/locations/bourne/ Our School Offers Quality Education in Bourne, MA Finding quality childcare with an emphasis on education isn’t hard when your children are 2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

29

â&#x20AC;&#x153;We LOVE Tender Loving Care. The teachers are like family. They care for each child like their own family. They are knowledgeable in early childhood education as well as the gentle care for infants, toddlers and preschoolers!!â&#x20AC;?

Woburn - 781-281-2983 | Weston - 781-703-5088 www.tenderlovingcarechildcarecenters.com 30

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

PRESCHOOL LISTINGS enrolled in The Children’s Workshop. We believe children retain more when they’re having fun, so our programs emphasize learning through play.

The Children's Workshop - North Attleboro 444 Kelley Blvd., North Attleboro • 508-643-3458 childrensworkshop.com/locations/north-attleboro/ Accredited Education Center in North Attleboro, MA. The Children’s Workshop in North Attleboro is located on Route 152 and provides easy access to Route 95. We offer high-quality child care and education services for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and pre-kindergarteners.

The Children's Workshop - Norwood

884 Washington St., Norwood • 781-912-3851 childrensworkshop.com/locations/norwood/ The Children’s Workshop in Norwood is located in the Rama Stop Plaza. We offer high quality child care and learning for infants, toddlers and preschool. Our classrooms are big, bright, warm and welcoming and you HAVE to see our fantastic gross motor room!

The Children's Workshop - Seekonk

1334 Fall River Ave., Seekonk • 508-500-9017 childrensworkshop.com/locations/seekonk/ The Children’s Workshop in Seekonk is located conveniently on Rt. 6. We offer high quality child care and education for infants, toddlers, preschool, and pre-kindergarten.

The Children's Workshop - South Dennis

434 Rt 134, South Dennis • 508-760-2772 childrensworkshop.com/locations/south-dennis/ The Children’s Workshop in South Dennis is located in the Cranberry Square Plaza. We offer high quality child care and learning opportunities for infants, toddlers, and preschool aged children.

Our program offers affordable rates, convenient hours, and a great location with easy access from Route 134. We now offer hot lunches too!

The Children's Workshop - Waltham

475 Winter St., Waltham • 781-466-8640 childrensworkshop.com/locations/waltham/ At The Children’s Workshop in Waltham, MA, our team of experienced educators are ready to help

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

31

PRESCHOOL LISTINGS your child learn in a fun and safe environment.

Located just off of Route 128, we offer a quality instructional environment for your child. We are not a “day care”- we provide opportunities inside and outside of the classroom for your child to interact with and learn from the world around them in a way that will encourage their growth.

The Children's Workshop - West Bridgewater

475 Winter St., Waltham • 781-510-6124 childrensworkshop.com/locations/west-bridgewater/ The Children’s Workshop is proud to announce our newest location! We have opened a school in West Bridgewater, MA, which is located conveniently on Route 106. We offer high-quality childcare and early education for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten, and School Age and are now enrolling for each age group!

The Children's Workshop - Westborough 6 Bellows Rd., Westborough • 508-366-2148 childrensworkshop.com/locations/westborough/

32

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

At the Children’s Workshop, we understand the day-to-day child care demands placed on today’s busy families. We provide a truly quality early childhood education environment where children can feel safe, happy, confident, and proud of what they accomplish. We also offer flexible scheduling, back-up care, affordable rates, and convenient hours.

The Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center

477 Longwood Avenue, Boston • 617-739-6455 www.fjecc.org/ The Frances Jacobson Early Childhood Center is committed to providing the highest quality education in both secular and Judaic studies in a safe, nurturing and non-pressured environment under the guidance of the highest caliber teachers. Our philosophy is rooted in respect, individual dignity and self-worth. At the FJECC, children have the opportunity to thrive and grow, to have fun and to enjoy themselves while

learning about their physical, intellectual, social and emotional selves, their language, and their world.

bilingual children. Become part of our vibrant ELC community!

Friends Childcare

1112 Main Street, Hingham • 781-355-7718 www.bostonjcc.org Our curriculum encourages children to be actively engaged in their learning experience. Jewish values and traditions are an integral part of our program. Recently voted Hingham’s number one preschool in the Readers’ Choice Awards, the JCC Early Center at Congregation Sha’aray Shalom is a centrally located school for children ages 15 months to 5 years. We are housed in an inspiring, modern facility with sunlit classrooms and a spacious, on-site playground. Our diverse school community welcomes families of all faiths. Become part of our vibrant ELC community!

110 Cypress Street, Brookline • 617-731-1008 www.friendschildcare.net Friends Childcare: Nurturing Children & Supporting Families. Year Round program for infants to Pre K. Call now for a Tour

German International School Boston

387 Western Avenue, Boston • 617-779-7393 www.gisbos.org/ At our Lower Campus, children learn through play in a vibrant new space designed specifically for Preschool and Kindergarten. We partner with you to nurture their independence and empathy, their enthusiasm for discovery, and their German language development. With small group sizes, children with all levels of German language ability from absolute beginners to native speakers are welcomed, supported, and challenged. Teachers speak exclusively German with your child, using a range of methods to promote language learning regardless of your child’s initial exposure to German. Our mixed-age classes (children ages 2.9 – 5 in preschool, and ages 5 – 6 in kindergarten) serve as microcosms that reflect the larger world.

In our diverse and joyful classrooms, children learn to share, work through differences, express feelings, and describe new ideas. Contact us to schedule a tour!

International School of Boston

45 Matignon Road, Cambridge • 617-499-1451 http://www.isbos.org ISB offers a distinctive bilingual education rooted in the best of French, American, and international academic traditions. The School’s mission is to shape lifelong learners who can speak and think in multiple languages and who can apply their knowledge.

JCC Early Learning Center - Brookline

50 Sutherland Road, Brighton • 617-278-2950 www.bostonjcc.org Our educational approach begins with the belief that children are curious, contributing participants in the world. This child-centered philosophy aligns with our rich Jewish culture, traditions and values. The Center’s modern facility features sunlit classrooms and a spacious on-site playground.

Swim lessons and enrichment classes are among the wide range of activities your child will enjoy.

Our diverse school community welcomes families of all faiths, and we are experienced working with

JCC Early Learning Center - Hingham

JCC Early Learning Center - Newton

333 Nahanton Street, Newton • 617-558-6420 www.bostonjcc.org Our Center is dedicated to providing children and their families with a rich and nurturing learning environment filled with Jewish values and traditions. We have the advantage of being located at the JCC Leventhal-Sidman Center, so ELC kids spend lots of time playing and learning outdoors on our beautiful campus. Our new, state-of-the-art playscape incorporates all the wonder of the natural landscape. As part of the JCC community, ELC families have access to a wide range of activities. These include swim lessons and enrichment classes for children, as well as fitness, arts and cultural opportunities for the entire family. At the JCC, children and parents find opportunities for life-long learning and friendships. Become part of our vibrant ELC community!

JCC Early Learning Center - Sharon

25 Canton Street, Sharon • 781-795-4900 www.bostonjcc.org Our Center provides a family-oriented environment where we bring Jewish culture and traditions to life with hands-on learning experiences. We focus on building community, while supporting each child’s academic, social and emotional development. Located in a modern facility with sunlit classrooms and a spacious onsite playground, we offer children a wide range of experiences and interactions. Our goal is for every day to be your child’s best day ever. Our diverse school community welcomes families of all faiths.

Become part of our vibrant ELC community!

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

33

Lesley Ellis School

34 Winter Street, Arlington • 781-641-5987 www.lesleyellis.org The Early Childhood Years are a time when children develop a sense of belonging, self-worth, and self-esteem–essential elements that form the foundation on which all learning is built. At Lesley Ellis we believe that all children are naturally curious, capable learners. The Lesley Ellis Emergent Curriculum Philosophy is one that builds upon the interests of the children. We do not separate the curriculum into discreet blocks of time for math, language, etc. Rather, children learn about themselves and the world around them through investigation and discovery, as well as art, dramatic play, and social interaction.

Little People's Playhouse Roslindale

32 South Fairview Street, Roslindale • 617-323-2566 4019 Washington Street, Roslindale • 617-323-2566 www.littlepeoplesplayhouse.net With two locations in Roslindale, we provide the best in quality care when you're not there. Our program is for children 15 months to 6 years old from toddlers through preschool. We have after school and tutorials during the week and on Saturday’s.

34

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

Mount Alvernia Academy

20 Manet Road Chestnut Hill • 617-527-7540 www.mtalverniaacad.org Mount Alvernia Academy’s preschool is a happy place! Our experienced team of educators fosters a safe, loving, and nurturing environment for our students as they take their first steps in becoming lifelong learners. Our holistic Franciscan and Catholic education inspires students from preschool through grade 6 to discover and share their God-given gifts to make the world a better place.

Nashoba Brooks School

200 Strawberry Hill Road, Concord • 978-369-4591 www.nashobabrooks.org Lower School is a wonderful time of growth and learning at Nashoba Brooks. Our boys and girls — whether shy or outgoing, silly or serious — find a home here for their energy and learning styles.

We delight in their accomplishments and in the relationships that we develop with them and their families. We are a community in the Lower School. In Lower School, students transition from focusing on their individual needs to thinking about the group and the world around them. This is a rewarding period for students as they develop

knowledge, skills, and strategies that help them solve problems independently and collaboratively.

We know that to thrive children need the freedom to explore ideas, to ask questions, and to take risks. We provide those opportunities and much more. Our classrooms provide an atmosphere where creative thinking and joyful learning thrive.

Newton Montessori School

80 Crescent Avenue Newton • 617-969-4488 www.newtonmontessori.org A diverse, nurturing community of children from 15 months through grade 6, Newton Montessori School fosters a love of learning through respect for self, others and the environment.

North Shore Montessori School

121 Wethersfield Street, Rowley • 978-495-2244 www.northshoremontessori.org Our full time Children's House Program has 20 children which include Kindergarteners, ages 2.9 6 years old. We do have a few part time positions in the pre-school program. We also have one classroom - Lower Elementary Program ages 6 to 9 year olds with 20 children and One classroom Upper Elementary Program 9 - 12 year olds with 20 children Large play area, and separate area with 20 chickens. Our specials are drumming, Spanish, music and movement.

Norwood Montessori School

462 Walpole St, Norwood • 781-762-3700 www.NorwoodMontessoriSchool.com N.M.S. offers a quality Montessori education to children ages 2 to 18 years old. During these years, children are actively growing; mentally, emotionally, physically, & cognitively, this is when their development of personality & individuality takes place. We offer educational opportunities for children in many areas with an integrated Montessori curriculum, & a multi-age classroom providing children with a carefully prepared learning environment & a wide range of quality materials. Our goal is for each child to acquire a love of learning that will stay with them throughout their lifetime.

Pine Manor College Child Study Center

the Greater Boston Area send their children to our daycare, preschool and pre-k programs. We find the children thrive on the diversity that comes with having families from different areas and cultural backgrounds.

Pine Village Preschool - Brighton

370/400 Western Ave., Brighton • 617-254-0190 www.mybilingualpreschool.com/ Our Mission is to educate and nurture each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a true passion for learning and an ability to engage in any environment and community.

Pine Village Preschool - JP / Revere

1 Roanoke Street., Jamaica Plain • 617-524-0490 www.mybilingualpreschool.com/ Our Mission is to educate and nurture each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a true passion for learning and an ability to engage in any environment and community.

Pine Village Preschool - JP / South Street

57 South Street, Jamaica Plain • 857-203-9655 www.mybilingualpreschool.com/ Our Mission is to educate and nurture each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a true passion for learning and an ability to engage in any environment and community.

Pine Village Preschool - Kendall Square

695 West Kendall Street, Cambridge • 617-621-7980 www.mybilingualpreschool.com/ Our Mission is to educate and nurture each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a true passion for learning and an ability to engage in any environment and community.

Pine Village Preschool - Newton

1326 Washington Street, Newton • 617-332-5625 www.mybilingualpreschool.com/ Our Mission is to educate and nurture each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a true passion for learning and an ability to engage in any environment and community.

400 Heath Street, Chestnut Hill • 617-731-7039 http://www.pmc.edu/csc Due to our convenient location just off of Route 9, our preschool, which borders Brookline and 65 Fourth Avenue, Needham • 781-444-2440 Newton in Chestnut Hill, MA, is a great option for www.mybilingualpreschool.com/ parents driving into Boston for work. We have had Our Mission is to educate and nurture each child’s families from Waban, Jamaica Plain, West Roxbury, Roslindale and many other communities within

Pine Village Preschool - Needham

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

35

individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a true passion for learning and an ability to engage in any environment and community.

Pine Village Preschool - Porter Square

2067 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge • 617-547-4700 www.mybilingualpreschool.com/ Our Mission is to educate and nurture each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a true passion for learning and an ability to engage in any environment and community.

Pine Village Preschool - South End

700 Harrison Avenue, Boston • 617-638-3265 www.mybilingualpreschool.com/ Our Mission is to educate and nurture each child’s individuality within a culturally diverse, bilingual community so that every child develops a true passion for learning and an ability to engage in any environment and community.

The Sage School

171 Mechanic Street Foxboro • 508-543-9619 http://www.sageschool.org The Sage School provides a full day, PreK through 8th grade academic program where master

36

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

teachers inspire gifted children to learn deeply and discover their passion.

Saint Agnes School

39 Medford Street, Arlington • 781-641-6627 www.saintagnesschool.com Established in 1888, Saint Agnes School is a special place that is dedicated to the spiritual, intellectual, physical, and social development of its students.

Part of Saint Agnes Parish community that also includes Arlington Catholic High School.

Seaside Montessori

760 Nantasket Ave., Hull • 781-773-1588 www.seasidemontessori.com Seaside Montessori offers families in Hull and the neighboring communities an early childhood education option following the Montessori philosophy. Seaside’s preschool program includes 3, 4 or 5 days per week with half-day or full day options available. The property, formerly Nantasket Preschool, underwent extensive renovations in 2011 to provide a warm and inviting learning environment in which a child’s love of learning, individuality, and confidence are encouraged to grow. Seaside Montessori is a limited liability company in Massachusetts and licensed with the Department of Early Education & Care (EEC).

St. Benedict Elementary School

2 Pleasant Street, Natick • 508-650-1900 www.stbenedictelementary.com/curriculum/prekindergarten/ St. Benedict Elementary offers a classical Catholic education for the whole child, fostering academic, moral and spiritual excellence. In uniting the Catholic tradition with classically- inspired academics, and integrating into the life of the school the virtues first learned in the family, our students gain not only knowledge, but an appreciation of education as a noble pursuit. The St. Benedict Elementary preschool program serves students 4 years of age and engages in developing core academic concepts in mathematics, literacy, science, and the arts in an approachable and developmentally appropriate manner. Our curriculum is inspired by the classical model which, while academically robust, tailors subject matter to each child’s natural cognitive development.

Instruction begins in the younger grades with strong emphasis on developing mastery over skills in the core subject areas of reading, writing, grammar and math while building a broader framework of knowledge in history, literature, language and science. This progression from learning facts to developing the ability to think analytically, combined with the integrated study of classical subjects, provides young children with the tools to think for themselves and to become independent, lifelong learners.

St. Mary of the Assumption School

67 Harvard Street, Brookline • 617-566-7184 www.stmarys-brookline.org/pages/St_Mary_of_the_ Assumption_ES St. Mary of the Assumption school is a richly

diverse Catholic community serving students in grades pre-k through eight. We are dedicated to providing each child with a strong foundation intellectually, spiritually, and socially in a learning environment of reverence, respect, and responsibility.

Stepping Stones Infant Toddler Center & Preschool

13 Bates Road, Watertown • 617-926-1434 www.stepcare.net Stepping Stones believes that each child is a unique person. Each child is respected for his or her individual personality, learning style and family background. We have created an environment where your child is nurtured while building selfesteem. Our objective is to provide a setting where your child will feel secure and you are confident in the care being provided.

Summit Montessori School

283 Pleasant Street, Framingham • 508-872-3630 www.summitmontessori.org Summit Montessori School is an independent school providing Montessori education, starting at 21 months. Available to the children of fifteen MetroWest communities located near Routes 9, 90 and 495. Before and after school care available.

Teddy Bear Club

239 Concord Road Lincoln 1466 Commonwealth Avenue, Newton 781-259-0009 617-332-1611 teddybearclub.org From TBC’s founder, Laura d’Angosse Perlman: I started the Teddy Bear Club in 1993 because I saw a need to combine the best elements of American preschool programs with some of the wonderful aspects of the French education I received growing

2019 | BostonParentsPaper.com

37

up in Paris. I highly value the focus American preschools place on the development of social skills, creativity and self-confidence but I also recognized an opportunity to further emphasize the more academically focused approach that typifies European education. TBC was born out of this desire to layer a well-rounded academic curriculum over a socially focused preschool experience, in a bilingual French/English environment. Twenty-five years later, our program continues to instill confidence and self-esteem in our students while building a solid foundation for their future academic success in primary school and beyond.

Temple Shalom Nursery School

carefully chosen staff members, filled with love and compassion for children. We believe that children are our most important resource and that their early childhood experiences are crucial in the development of their future.

Tender Loving Care Childcare Centers Woburn

23 Warren Avenue, Woburn • 781-703-5088 www.tenderlovingcarechildcarecenters.com/ TLC Childcare Center strives to provide a quality Early Childhood Education Program filled with carefully chosen staff members, filled with love and compassion for children. We believe that children are our most important resource and that their early childhood experiences are crucial in the development of their future.

175 Temple Street, Newton • 617-969-5521 http://templeshalomnursery.org Certified Nature Explore School - Flexible schedules from 7:45 am to 5:30 pm - Enrolling children from 1425 Blue Hill Avenue, Milton • 617-361-2522 18 moths old to 5 years old. www.thacherschool.org Thacher Montessori School is a diverse, joyful, and collaborative learning community for toddlers through 8th grade. We embrace each child’s 101 River Road, Weston • 81-703-5088 unique potential, nurture boundless curiosity and www.tenderlovingcarechildcarecenters.com/ cultivate a lasting love of learning.

TLC Childcare Center strives to provide a quality Early Childhood Education Program filled with

Thacher Montessori School

Tender Loving Care Childcare Centers Weston

38

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

Tobin Children's School

71 Cottage Street Natick • 508-653-6300 www.tobinchildrensschool.org/ Early childhood education is what we know best at Tobin Children’s School. Children at this age learn most effectively in an environment with a balance of fun, exploratory play, and an introduction to letters, numbers, shapes, and colors.

The Tobin School

73 Cottage Street Natick • 508-655-5006 www.thetobinschool.org Leaders in Early Childhood Education, The Tobin School provides care for children in preschool up through Kindergarten during the academic year.

Robust, rich curriculum and developmentally appropriate program.

Tobin School Westwood

1054 High Street Westwood • 781-329-7775 www.tobinschoolwestwood.org/ Our school provides a cozy, bright and cheerful environment for young children. We are committed to providing a developmentally appropriate curriculum to address each child’s individual needs.

39

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

Torit Montessori School

45 Province Street, Boston • 617-523-4000 www.toritschool.org/ Torit Montessori offers Early Childhood education for infants, toddlers, preschoolers and kindergarten, and for Elementary students through Grade 6. Spanish, Mandarin and Arabic are taught to all students in a multicultural environment.

Transportation Children's Center

10 Park Plaza, Suite 3330, Boston • 617-973-8200 www.transchildrencenter.org The Transportation Children's Center has been serving the needs of working parents and their children since 1986. With our safe and attractive environment, and our outstanding staff of childcare professionals, parents can have complete confidence that their children are getting the best possible care. Our role is to not only take care of children while their parents work, but also to provide an environment where those children will attain emotional, social, physical and intellectual strengths to prepare them for the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Village Preschool

25 Cummins Highway, Roslindale • 617-323-5141 www.vpsroslindale.com The Village Pre-School is a non-profit child care center serving children ages 1 month to 6 years. Our purpose is to provide a flexible, quality, educational child care center. Our primary objective is to provide a safe, supportive environment, in which children are able to learn through developmental curriculum, about their world. Daily activities and play encourage individuality and creativity. Our teachers and administrators work together with each family to enhance each child's social, emotional, physical and cognitive development.

Westwood Children's School

808 High Street Westwood • 781-329-7766 www.westwoodchildrensschool.org/ We have designed our programs to provide your Infant, Toddler and Preschool child with a variety

40

Boston Parents Paper | 2019

of experiences and activities to encourage them to learn about themselves, their friends and their surroundings. At our school they will participate in small and large group experiences, quiet times, and active play, as well as outdoor exploration.

Wollaston Child Care Center

47 Weston Ave. Quincy • 617-773-7217 www.wollastonchildcare.org The Wollaston Child Care Center is a year round NAEYC accredited child care center and preschool program serving children from 15 months kindergarten age. We offer a variety of flexible full and part time schedule options. Our children benefit from a developmentally appropriate curriculum focusing on all of the developmental domains. In addition we offer enrichment programs including Mandarin class and an optional Bible stories program.

41

Boston Parents Paper | 2019