If play is the work of children, then toys are their tools. Some of the most recommended and favored toys for young children are simple blocks. While blocks may seem “old-school” because they lack the bells and whistles of today’s modern toys, they are a staple in early childhood programs and toy boxes across the globe for good reason.

The holidays are filled with beautiful sounds (and sights) that make this time unlike any other. And a much-needed break from work, however brief, gives us an opportunity to rest and enjoy the simple things that fill our lives – family, friends, meals and traditions. Our children are also taking a well-deserved break from their own routine. However, the sudden lack of structure can often be a difficult adjustment for children and families alike. The increased time with your child can be a wonderful opportunity to find new ways to play together, that rejuvenate you both! Music is one of the most simple and ideal ways to achieve this. Here are 7 simple suggestions to connect and refresh in play with your child through music.

The calendar will soon turn to December and for many that means the start of a very busy holiday season. From travel, to major changes in schedules, to unfamiliar holiday traditions, this can also be a difficult season for children, too. However, with these four simple tips, you can take some stress out of the holidays for the whole family.

Getting dirty just for fun is one of the privileges of childhood. Climbing trees, scaling hillsides, fashioning hiding places with leaves and sticks – all of these are built into a kid’s DNA. We don’t necessarily think of these activities as a crucial part of a child’s development. But research demonstrates that regular interactions with nature contribute in many ways to learning and socialization.