Monthly Archives: May 2021

Kids r kids valrico: Preschool, Daycare & After-School Program for Kids in Valrico FL

Опубликовано: May 31, 2021 в 11:12 am

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Preschool, Daycare & After-School Program for Kids in Valrico FL

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We are so happy that you found us! We invite you to come take a tour, meet our teachers, and see why Kids ‘R’ Kids of Valrico is the best choice for your family. We understand that you want the best for your child, and we do, too! With a unique mix of technology-filled classrooms, highly trained educational staff, live stream cameras, security code entry, and exclusive curriculum; what we can offer your child sets us apart from any preschool or daycare in Valrico, FL. Our age-specific programs range from infant through pre-K (6 weeks – 5 years old), as well as before and after school care for children 5 years to 12 years old. For our Before & After School Students, we provide transportation to select local elementary schools. Your child is your pride and joy, and we would love the opportunity to contribute to the educational foundation they deserve!

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Hours of Operation: 6:00AM – 6:30PM

4321 Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico, FL 33596  |  Directions  |  (813) 657-6200

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Tour Intro Kids ‘R’ Kids Tour Our School

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Kids ‘R’ Kids is proud to deliver first-class child care and early education to our community for families with children aged 6 weeks through 4 years. We also offer before and after school programs for children 5 to 12 years of age who attend local elementary schools for kindergarten through 5th grade.

We want to meet you and show you around our Learning Academy. Remember to Like us on Facebook and be sure to visit our blog often for great advice on everything from education to parenting.

Our Mission Statement

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy provides a secure, nurturing, and educational environment for children. Our school is a place for children to bloom into responsible, considerate, and contributing members of society.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy wants all children to have the opportunity to grow physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually by playing, exploring, and learning with others in a fun, safe, and healthy environment.

As a family-owned and operated school, Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy welcomes positive family involvement and encourages a parent-teacher approach where the needs of every child come first!

WE HOLD THE FUTURE®

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Our Accredited Programs

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy is fully accredited and offers the ultimate foundation for your child. We are very proud to provide the most effective educational programs and innovative facilities for children 6 weeks through 12 years of age.

Our Exclusive Curriculum

Our exclusive line of curriculum is designed specifically for every developmental stage of education with theme-based units, specific learning activities and teacher-friendly lesson plans. As a parent, rest assured your child is benefiting and advancing from the most innovative curriculum available.

1/9: Large separate playgrounds are designed for ultimate play for infants, toddlers, preschool and school age children.

2/9: Our School Age Program provides an engaging and collaborative environment.

3/9: Our Toddler Program encourages each child to practice skills and develop independence.

4/9: Introduction to literacy begins with our earliest learners with exclusive Infant Curriculum that exceeds other typical childcare services.

5/9: The Kids ‘R’ Kids exclusive STEAM Ahead® Curriculum implements various activities to develop skills in science, technology, engineering, art and math.

6/9: School buses with seat belts provide transportation to and from local elementary schools as well as to planned field trips.

7/9: Hands-on activities (such as patterns, measurements and shapes) are important for developing your child into an abstract thinker.

8/9: Engaging activities thoughtfully engineered to encourage innovation, collaboration and imagination.

9/9: The Kids ‘R’ Kids Staff is central to our success. Each member is carefully selected and extensively trained to provide the best in early childhood development and childcare.

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Valrico

Kids ‘R’ Kids of Valrico – Care.com Valrico, FL

 

Costimate

$160

per week

Ratings

Availability

Costimate

$160/week

Ratings

Availability

At Care.com, we realize that cost of care is a big consideration for families. That’s why we are offering an estimate which is based on an average of known rates charged by similar businesses in the area. For actual rates, contact the business directly.

Details and information displayed here were provided by this business and may not reflect its current status. We strongly encourage you to perform your own research when selecting a care provider.

1

We believe that happy, loved and connected children are destined for success in every facet of their lives. Our Smarter Choice philosophy is captured in our mantra: “Hug First, Then Teach.” Studies have shown that making a connection or bond with a child, creating comfort and earning their trust is a critical Smart first step that should precede actual lessons. Because after all-kids are kids. We are locally owned and operated and we tailor our approach to fit your child’s individual needs, comfort and happiness. Call us today to learn more about why we’re the Smart Choice for your family!

In business since: 1985

Total Employees: 11-50

Awards & Accreditations

APPLE Accreditation, Hillsborough County Licensed, Kids ‘R’ Kids Presidential Award, Director of the Year

State license status: Operational
(Care. com verified on 8/26/2022)

This business has satisfied Florida’s requirements to be licensed.
For the most up-to-date status and inspection reports, please view this provider’s profile on
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licensing website.

Licensing requirements typically include:

  • Complying with safety and health inspections
  • Achieving the required levels of educational training
  • Maintaining a minimum caregiver-to-child ratio
  • Other state-defined requirements

Type

Child Care Center/Day Care Center

Preschool (or Nursery School or Pre-K)

Additional Details

Summer care / camp

Costimate

$160/week

At Care.com, we realize
that cost of care is a big consideration for families. That’s
why we are offering an estimate which is based on an average of
known rates charged by similar businesses in the area. For
actual rates, contact the business directly.

OFFERINGS

Full Time (5 days/wk)

Part Time (1-4 days/wk)

Extended Care (Before School)

Extended Care (After School)

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Think Children Learning Center

408 E Lumsden Rd
,
Brandon,
FL
33511

Southwood Hills Daycare

600 Huntington Street
,
Brandon,
FL
33511

First Discoveries Academy

1311 Brooker Road
,
Brandon,
FL
33511

Arise Academy

401 Pauls Drive.
,
Brandon,
FL
33511

Roxanne’s Lil Ones

2021 Lee Dr
,
Valrico,
FL
33594

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Child Care / Preschools / Preschools in Valrico, FL / Kids ‘R’ Kids of Valrico

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Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico


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from Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico https://kidsrkidsvalrico.blogspot.com/2022/05/preschool-in-circa-fishhawk-images.html

























How to imbibe moral values in preschoolers?

Moral values are guidelines that help judge right from wrong and enable better and fair decision-making. Since everyone grows up in varying environments, the moral values vary from individual to individual. Kids ‘R’ Kids, an educational preschool, shares the significance of moral values and how caregivers can build these important traits in preschoolers at an early stage.

Importance of building moral values in children

  1. Builds positive character that exudes traits such as compassion, respect, kindness, and humility.
  2. Helps promote critical thinking and unbiased judgments. 
  3. Offers multiple perspectives on various aspects of life, which in turn shapes attitudes and beliefs.
  4. Elevates self-confidence in children and inspires a positive attitude in tough situations. 
  5. Helps children be more discerning when under the pressure of peers, social media, or society in general.
  6. A strong moral character helps elevate the yardstick for social living, thereby developing a society at large.

Ways To imbibe Moral Values In Children

  1. Set an example: Children acquire moral values that they observe in their immediate environment. Therefore parents and teachers must conduct themselves in a fashion that they want the children to observe and follow. Children are the masters of imitation and if they see virtues such as honesty and responsibility in their environment, the likelihood of them imbibing these values in their conduct is very high.
  2. Share real-time moral stories: Storytelling is a great way to help children engage with moral stories but sharing real-time experiences with children is much more impactful. It also allows children to view their parents sticking to their values and deepens the adoption of moral values.
  3. Practice: Stories and theory are pointless without applying them in real-life situations. Create or identify situations where children can practice these values. For instance, humility is a trait that can be practiced when helping the needy.  
  4. Praise good moral conduct: When children practice one of the moral traits in their daily lives, it is important to praise or reward them appropriately. This can reiterate the conduct and boost the child’s confidence. 
  1. Intelligent use of media: Media has a huge influence on children and teens today. Children can be exposed to the right content on the right platform to ease the adoption of moral learnings. For instance, children can watch videos that help them learn moral values in a fun and engaging manner.

Why Kids ‘R’ Kids? 

At Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico, the philosophy of “Hug First, Then Teach” defines every aspect of learning. Its methodology of the whole-child approach constantly strives to strengthen and encourage every child’s emotional, intellectual, social, and physical well-being through the expertise of its childcare providers and a unique partnership with parents.

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

The post Kids ‘R’ Kids Discusses Moral Development in Preschoolers appeared first on Valrico.

















 

from Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico https://kidsrkidsvalrico.blogspot.com/2022/05/preschool-in-valrico-images-5192022.html

























Tips to build the habit of sharing

Every successful relationship, personal or professional is built on the foundations of cooperation, collaboration, and teamwork. Sharing time, money, or resources makes the world a kinder and happier place. This is a quality that must be built in the young generation at the earliest. Kids ‘R’ Kids, an educational preschool in Valrico, shares some tips on imbibing this wonderful quality of sharing in children.

 

Developmental Readiness for Sharing

The ability to share is directly related to empathy. Children are developmentally able to share only when they are cognitively able to understand another person’s point of view. Young children are naturally very egocentric. They have difficulty seeing anything outside their point of view. Studies show that during the ages of approximately 2 – 7 years old, children are slowly learning to understand that others have different thoughts, perspectives, and ideas than their own. Sharing will be vehemently resisted by this age group as they are only just beginning to understand other people’s points of view.

Like any developmental milestone, there is an age when children can be expected to share. And just like any other skill, sharing takes practice, time, and positive reinforcement.

Tips for Teaching Sharing

Sharing transcends objects. It is not just about sharing a favorite toy but also about sharing time and resources. A child who waits his turn to play is sharing his time and patiently waiting for the other child to finish his turn. A child who is investing time and energy to console a friend is sharing. 

By modeling, this behavior at every opportunity adults can encourage children to share. 

The developmental milestone of sharing may not have been achieved yet but the language of sharing can be taught and reiterated at an early age. Toddlers can be explained how a younger child needs more attention at one point and that they must wait their turn to receive the desired attention. Helping children assign words to their feelings while waiting for their turns can help. Praising the children for their ability to share can also give them the confidence to repeat the action.  

Games that require children to cooperate and wait for their turns are a great setting to learn to share in. For instance, taking turns while playing a board game or putting together a puzzle allows children to practice sharing with others. 

Children don’t need to share everything, every time. A favorite toy could become a bone of contention and is, therefore, best kept away during playdates, for instance. It’s important to set up children for success by not forcing them to share something special with them. Giving them the liberty to choose to share their favorite toys may help them be more willing to share later.

  • Set Expectations

A heads-up on a possible situation where they may have to share allows children to process the information and be prepared. A simple explanation of the situation can go a long way. For instance, informing the kids that a family is coming over with two kids for dinner, and they all can play with their toys together. Also giving them an option of keeping away their favorite toys sets up the children for success during the social interaction and gives them the freedom of choice. 

Positive reinforcement lies at the foundation of all learning. Therefore, children must be praised when they gracefully share their toys with their peers. On the other hand, escalating the situation and trying to force a child to share does not have a positive effect in the long run. Suggesting an activity that requires all children to work together such as play-doh or coloring may diffuse the pressure of sharing and give them the comfort of choice and liberty. They may feel comfortable eventually sharing and must be showered with praise for their efforts.  

Why Kids ‘R’ Kids? 

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

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

from Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico https://kidsrkidsvalrico.blogspot.com/2022/05/kids-r-kids-shares-how-to-teach.html

























How to set your child for success?

Early childhood is the time for setting a strong and balanced foundation for future success. Every parent and teacher aims to raise and educate their children to become well-rounded, confident, self-motivated, and independent adults. Kids ‘R’ Kids, an educational preschool in Circa Fishhawk, shares some important tips for parents to set up their children for success at school and in life.

  1. Let them play

Play is the most underrated yet most impactful form of learning for young children. Children must engage in free play every day beside the structured play at school and home. Extracurricular activities are great for kids but their creativity and problem-solving skills are best developed during unstructured play. 

  1. Read every day

Reading to children opens up a whole new world to them. Reading not only enhances their language skills, imagination, and critical thinking skills, and also encourages parents-children bonding. Reading helps develop children’s emotional maturity and helps them assign words to emotions they feel. This is an activity that allows a dialogue and discussion between children and parents that encourages thinking and communication.

  1. Instill independence

Independence is a life skill that must be taught to children early. Allowing a child to make mistakes and learn from them to make better decisions is a skill that will make a massive difference in their lives as adults. Parents can begin teaching this skill by allowing children to resolve their conflicts with friends among themselves, encouraging them to do some homework independently, packing their bags every day, and taking responsibility for some age-appropriate chores.

  1. Build grit

The American Psychological Association states that grit is what separates the very best from those who are simply good enough. Angela Duckworth, a psychologist at the University of Pennsylvania, found in her research that a combination of grit and self-control, reliance, and ambition were the most reliable predictors of a positive outcome, rather than intelligence. The kids who won the spelling bee, for instance, weren’t necessarily smarter than their peers; they just worked much harder at studying the words. 

Parents can offer challenges to children to work through and overcome. Adversity and even failure are critical to a child’s development.

  1. Build their individuality

All children have different strengths, weaknesses, interests, and passions. It is children’s emotional need to be accepted as individuals and be allowed to pursue their natural inclinations.  

Giving children the opportunity and the encouragement to experience all extra-curricular activities at school such as drama, music, dance, and public speaking besides academics is crucial for their development. Children must be allowed to indulge in activities they feel naturally drawn to. These interests may convert into valuable career choices later on. 

  1. Disappointment is necessary

Distress, disappointment, frustration, relief, anticipation, anger, fear… these are emotions that are a part of everyone’s life. Protecting children from these experiences can weaken their ability to handle adversity later in life. Children must experience disappointment and acquire the skills to cope with this emotion. Not having these skills when parents are not around to help can prove to be a huge source of stress. So disappointment is good. 

  1. Understand developmental milestones

Children must cross certain developmental milestones before they are ready to acquire certain skills. Forcing certain skills such as reading, writing, and math skills before children are developmentally ready can lead to learning gaps later on. Pushing children to learn something they are not ready for not only disrupts their foundational skills but also takes away invaluable time they would have spent in free play and in exploring their curiosity. 

  1. Make them Accountable 

Adults are accountable for their actions. And this ability to accept accountability must be taught at an early age. For instance, if children leave their toys all over the floor, they are expected to collect them. If they hit another child, there are consequences. This is a life skill required in professional as well as personal equations.

Why Kids ‘R’ Kids?

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

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

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

from Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico https://kidsrkidsvalrico.blogspot.com/2022/05/kids-r-kids-shares-8-tips-to-help.html

























Tips to build the habit of sharing

Every successful relationship, personal or professional is built on the foundations of cooperation, collaboration, and teamwork. Sharing time, money, or resources makes the world a kinder and happier place. This is a quality that must be built in the young generation at the earliest. Kids ‘R’ Kids, an educational preschool in Valrico, shares some tips on imbibing this wonderful quality of sharing in children.

Developmental Readiness for Sharing

The ability to share is directly related to empathy. Children are developmentally able to share only when they are cognitively able to understand another person’s point of view. Young children are naturally very egocentric. They have difficulty seeing anything outside their own point of view. Studies show that during the ages of approximately 2 – 7 years old, children are slowly learning to understand that others have different thoughts, perspectives, and ideas than their own. Sharing will be vehemently resisted by this age group as they are only just beginning to understand other people’s points of view.

Like any developmental milestone, there is an age when children can be expected to share. And just like any other skill, sharing takes practice, time, and positive reinforcement.

Tips for Teaching Sharing

Sharing transcends objects. It is not just about sharing a favorite toy but also about sharing time and resources. A child who waits his turn to play is sharing his time and patiently waiting for the other child to finish his turn. A child who is investing time and energy to console a friend is sharing. 

By modeling, this behavior at every opportunity adults can encourage children to share. 

The developmental milestone of sharing may not have been achieved yet but the language of sharing can be taught and reiterated at an early age. Toddlers can be explained how a younger child needs more attention at one point and that they must wait their turn to receive the desired attention. Helping children to assign words to their feelings while waiting for their turns can really help. Praising the children for their ability to share can also give them the confidence to repeat the action.  

Games that require children to cooperate and wait for their turns are a great setting to learn sharing in. For instance, taking turns while playing a board game or putting together a puzzle allows children to practice sharing with others. 

Children don’t need to share everything, every time. A favorite toy could become a bone of contention and is, therefore, best kept away during playdates, for instance. It’s important to set up children for success by not forcing them to share something that is special to them. Giving them the liberty to choose to share their favorite toys may help them be more willing to share later.

  • Set Expectations

A heads-up on a possible situation where they may have to share allows children to process the information and be prepared. A simple explanation of the situation can go a long way. For instance, informing the kids that a family is coming over with two kids for dinner, and they all can play with their toys together. Also giving them an option of keeping away their favorite toys sets up the children for success during the social interaction and gives them the freedom of choice. 

Positive reinforcement lies at the foundation of all learning. Therefore, children must be praised when they gracefully share their toys with their peers. On the other hand, escalating the situation and trying to force a child to share does not have a positive effect in the long run. Suggesting an activity that requires all children to work together such as play-doh or coloring may diffuse the pressure of sharing and give them the comfort of choice and liberty. They may feel comfortable eventually to share and must be showered with praise for their efforts.  

Why Kids ‘R’ Kids? 

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

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

The post Kids ‘R’ Kids Shares How to Teach Children to Share appeared first on Valrico.
















 

Encouraging cognitive development in preschoolers

Early childhood is a very crucial time for the cognitive development of a child. Parents need to understand how a child’s brain develops and support this development. Kids ‘R’ Kids, an educational preschool, shares important facts about early cognitive development and tips to encourage this development in preschoolers.

Piaget’s Theory of Cognitive Development

Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development suggests that intelligence changes as children grow. A child’s cognitive development is not just about acquiring knowledge; the child has to develop or construct a mental world model.

Cognitive development occurs through the interaction of innate capacities and environmental events, and children pass through four stages. Each child goes through the stages in the same order, and child development is determined by biological maturation and interaction with the environment. The four stages are the sensorimotor stage (birth to 2 years), preoperational stage (2-7 years), concrete operational stage (7-12 years), and the formal active stage (12 years and above). Here’s more about the preoperational stage that is relevant for preschoolers.

The Preoperational Stage – Ages: 2 – 7 Years

Children in this stage are learning to use language and think about the world symbolically. These skills help children develop the foundations to use operations in the next step consistently. A child’s thinking is dominated by how the world looks, not how the world is. It is not yet capable of the logical (problem-solving) type of thought. Children at this stage also demonstrate animism. This is the tendency for the child to think that non-living objects (such as toys) have life and feel like a person’s.

How can parents promote cognitive development in preschoolers?

Play is a vital component of cognitive development in early childhood. It also allows parents to engage with their children. Parents can build an affectionate and loving relationship with their children to become the foundation for their development and learning.  

Preschoolers learn best through child-led or even adult-guided play. Children require lots of unstructured play with others that teach them to share, cooperate, resolve conflict, negotiate, and make friends. Here are a few ways parents can help preschoolers build their cognitive skills.

1. Reading

Reading daily to children is a great way to help their cognitive development. It helps develop the following skills:

2. Talking

Talking with children about their day at school, their experience with an activity, about their friends, during a bath or a walk allows children to use the language they are hearing. Parents are the primary source of vocabulary for children in the early years. Since children learn by imitation, parents must use grammatically correct language that stimulates a child’s mind.  

3. Nursery Rhymes

Nursery rhymes are not only entertaining for children; they also teach language patterns and vocabulary and help build auditory perceptual skills. Classic nursery rhymes, songs, and poems are rich in language constructs that can help set up children for reading success later on.

4. Thinking Games

Critical thinking skills are crucial for a successful adult. Thinking “outside the box” and creative problem-solving can be built by playing various thinking games. Games such as the guessing game, the prediction game, pretend-play game, and memory games are all meant to develop different thinking skills in children.

5. Creative Activities

Creativity involves two processes – thinking and producing. Creative thinking helps the brains develop neural connections and learn new concepts. It fosters mental growth in children by providing opportunities to experiment with new ideas, new ways of thinking, and problem-solving. Activities such as drawing, painting, molding, creating something with waste materials, or pretend-play are forms of creative expression. Parents can provide opportunities, materials, and stimulation for children to develop creative skills.  

6. Puzzles

Puzzles require a lot of concentration and effort, and perseverance to complete. Children who solve puzzles develop deep thinking and intellectual capabilities. Parents can present children with challenging yet doable puzzles appropriate for their age. 

7. Movement

Movement helps build neural pathways in the brain. It helps in the development of gross and motor skills among children. Exercise wakes up, resets, and re-energizes the brain. Therefore, it can be used to reset a child’s concentration during any activity.

8. Symbolic Play 

Symbolic play is when children use objects to represent other objects during make-believe play. A highly creative form of play, extended play enables children to develop advanced intellectual skills.

During this kind of play, children invent new ways to act out their world to make sense of it. Parents can offer access to toys and materials to encourage this play.

9. Age Appropriate Toys

A stimulating environment for a child does not require fancy toys or equipment. Basics such as wooden blocks, Lego, playdough, books, construction materials, and natural materials can be offered to children on alternative days or after every few days. Children are encouraged to invent novel ways to play and create by providing different manipulatives.

Why Kids ‘R’ Kids? 

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

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

from Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico https://kidsrkidsvalrico.blogspot.com/2022/03/kids-r-kids-discusses-cognitive.html

























Encouraging cognitive development in preschoolers

Early childhood is a very crucial time for the cognitive development of a child. It is important for parents to understand the way a child’s brain develops during this time and how they can support this development. Kids ‘R’ Kids, an educational preschool, shares important facts about early cognitive development and tips to encourage this development in preschoolers.

Piaget’s Theory of Cognitive Development

Jean Piaget’s theory of cognitive development suggests that intelligence changes as children grow. A child’s cognitive development is not just about acquiring knowledge, the child has to develop or construct a mental model of the world.

Cognitive development occurs through the interaction of innate capacities and environmental events, and children pass through four stages. Each child goes through the stages in the same order, and child development is determined by biological maturation and interaction with the environment. The four stages are the sensorimotor stage (birth to 2 years), preoperational stage (2-7 years), concrete operational stage (7-12 years), and the formal operational stage (12 years and above). Here’s more about the preoperational stage that is relevant for preschoolers.

The Preoperational Stage – Ages: 2 – 7 Years

Children in this stage are learning to use language and how to think about the world symbolically. These skills help children develop the foundations they will need to consistently use operations in the next stage. A child’s thinking is dominated by how the world looks, not how the world is. It is not yet capable of the logical (problem-solving) type of thought. Children at this stage also demonstrate animism. This is the tendency for the child to think that non-living objects (such as toys) have life and feelings like a person’s.

How can parents promote cognitive development in preschoolers?

Play is a vital component of cognitive development in early childhood. It also allows parents to engage with their children. Parents can build an affectionate and loving relationship with their children that will become the foundation for their development and learning.  

Preschoolers learn best through child-led or even adult-guided play. Children require lots of unstructured play with others that teach them to share, cooperate, resolve conflict, negotiate, and make friends. Here are a few ways parents can help preschoolers build their cognitive skills.

1. Reading

Reading daily to children is a great way to help their cognitive development. It helps develop the following skills:

  • Vocabulary
  • Language patterns
  • Thinking skills
  • Writing skills
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Attention span
  • Memory
  • Listening skills

2. Talking

Having a talk with children about their day at school, their experience with an activity, about their friends, during a bath or a walk allows children to use the language they are hearing. Parents are the primary source of language for children in the early years. Since children learn by imitation, parents must use grammatically correct language that stimulates a child’s mind.   

3. Nursery Rhymes

Nursery rhymes are not only entertaining for children, they also teach language patterns and vocabulary and help build auditory perceptual skills. Classic nursery rhymes, songs, and poems are rich in language constructs that can help set up children for reading success later on.

4. Thinking Games

Critical thinking skills are crucial for a successful adult. Thinking “outside the box” and creative problem-solving can be built by playing various thinking games. Games such as the guessing game, the prediction game, pretend-play game, and memory games are all meant to develop various thinking skills in children.

5. Creative Activities

Creativity involves two processes – thinking and producing. Creative thinking helps the brains develop neural connections and learn new concepts. It fosters mental growth in children by providing opportunities to experiment with new ideas, new ways of thinking, and problem-solving. Activities such as drawing, painting, molding, creating something with waste materials, or pretend-play are forms of creative expression. Parents can provide opportunities, materials, and stimulation for children to develop creative skills. 

6. Puzzles

Puzzles require a lot of concentration and effort, as well as perseverance to complete. Children who solve puzzles develop deep thinking and intellectual capabilities. Parents can present children with challenging yet doable puzzles that are appropriate for their age. 

7. Movement

Movement helps build neural pathways in the brain. It helps in the development of gross and motor skills among children. Movement wakes up, resets, and re-energizes the brain. Therefore, it can be used during any activity to reset a child’s concentration.

8. Symbolic Play 

Symbolic play is when children use objects to represent other objects during make-believe play. A highly creative form of play, symbolic play enables children to develop advanced intellectual skills.

During this kind of play, children are inventing new ways to act out their world to make sense of it. Parents can offer access to toys and materials to encourage this play.

9. Age Appropriate Toys

A stimulating environment for a child does not require fancy toys or equipment. Basics such as wooden blocks, Lego, playdough, books, construction materials, and natural materials can be offered to children on alternative days or after every few days. By offering different manipulatives, children are encouraged to invent novel ways to play and create.

Why Kids ‘R’ Kids? 

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

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

The post Kids ‘R’ Kids Discusses the Cognitive Development of Preschoolers appeared first on Valrico.
















Learning with classic preschool games 

Preschoolers are often found playing in groups the age-old popular games that every adult today remembers playing. These classic preschool games are not just about fun and burning off that excess energy children carry, but also disguise some important learnings that are essential for them to master. Kids ‘R’ Kids, an educational preschool, shares how the classic games that children play at home and preschool secretly model real-world situations that children derive their learning from.

1. Duck, Duck, Goose 

Life is a series of decisions and this classic game teaches children to think strategically and understand the impact of decisions. Participants sit in a circle, and one child walks around the circumference tapping each head in turn and saying “duck.” Eventually, the player picks one child to be the “goose” and runs around the circle to try to take that child’s place before the “goose” catches up with the player. If the player reaches the end without getting tagged, the “goose” returns to their seat and the original player continues around the circle.

This game encourages children to decide how they will choose the “goose”. They will likely tap the child who isn’t paying much attention and offers better chances of reaching their seats without getting tagged. This game teaches children to plan and gives them immediate feedback on the quality of their decisions.

2. Musical Chairs

Conflict resolution is an important part of social skills that children must acquire. This game helps children learn how arguments are resolved peacefully, how to deal with the disappointment of losing, and build their patience. Chairs are placed in a circle, one less than the number of children in the game, and then music is played as kids walk around the circle. Every time the music stops, everyone must be seated. Children who don’t get a chair are out. Then another chair is removed and the game restarts until there is a winner. 

As the game progresses, children learn to deal with the frustration of being out of the game. They practice patience and wait graciously for the game to get over and applaud the winner. During the game, there will be arguments between the players that they must resolve peacefully and kindly. An adult needs to monitor and intervene to help settle the conflicts and keep the morale high for kids who are out of the game. 

3. Simon Says

This game teaches children to focus and pay close attention to instructions. They also get a taste of leadership during this game as they instruct their peers to do silly actions by saying “Simon says tap your head” or “Simon Says jump like frogs.” The other children follow the leader as long as the instruction is preceded by “Simon says”. Children who are distracted end up doing silly actions by themselves. This gives them the impetus to listen closely to the entire set of instructions before getting started.

4. Row Your Boat

Self-awareness is a crucial skill for children to develop as part of the learning process. This game here pairs up children facing one another with knees bent up in front of them and holding hands. They are instructed to rock back and forth in time to the song “Row, Row, Row Your Boat.” This requires them to work as a team and coordinate their movements with each other as well as the music.

5. Hide and Seek

Hide and Seek educates children on problem-solving. Players try to assess the places that will keep them hidden for the longest possible duration. This assessment helps build spatial awareness as children consider visibility from various vantage points. They may also analyze and reject the spots that are most frequently used and discovered during the play.  

6. Hopscotch

Hopscotch is a classic sidewalk game that helps develop critical thinking skills. As children toss a rock underhand at the hopscotch pattern, they learn to navigate the hopscotch course without landing on the square with the rock. As the game gets harder, they may need to hop on one foot and plan the best route to win the game. 

7. Red Light, Green Light

A game of patience, Red Light, Green Light requires one child to stand facing away at the other side of the field. The goal of the other children is to be the first to touch that person, without being caught in motion. When the person is facing away, children can rush forward during the green light. When the leader turns around to face them, that’s a red light when kids must stop moving. If the leader catches anyone in motion, that person will have to go back to the starting line. Children will need to choose a reasonable pace that allows them to stop when the leader turns around. Controlling their impulse to run forward and waiting for the right moment to rush forward helps them learn about patience and good judgment. 

8. Sleeping Lions

Children have a very low attention span and poor focus. This game can help them develop these important skills. During this game, children lie down and pretend to be asleep. Then one person walks among the sleeping group and tries to convince the group into reacting and opening their eyes. The last kid to stick to the enactment of “sleeping” is the winner.

Why Kids ‘R’ Kids?

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

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

The post Kids ‘R’ Kids at Valrico: Life Skills that Classic Preschool Games Teach Children appeared first on Valrico.
















7 ways to boost creativity in kids

Research says that creativity is not an inborn talent but a skill that can be built. Creativity is crucial for young children as it helps them express and cope with their feelings. Moreover, it fosters mental growth in them by providing opportunities to experiment with new ideas, new ways of thinking, and problem-solving. Kids ‘R’ Kids shares a few ways caregivers can help boost this skill in young children.

What is creativity?

Creativity is the process of turning new and imaginative ideas into reality. It is characterized by the ability to perceive the world in new ways, to find hidden patterns, to make connections between seemingly unrelated events, and to generate innovative solutions. Creativity involves two processes – thinking and producing.

Creativity is the key to success in every sphere of life. It plays a crucial role in improving the brain’s cognitive abilities. Moreover, according to research, creative thinking helps the brains develop neural connections and learn new concepts. People with a musical background, for example, tend to have stronger links between the two hemispheres in their brain. Having said that, creativity is not limited to artistic and musical expression only. It is also essential for science, mathematical, linguistic, bodily-kinesthetic, spatial, naturalist, and even social and emotional intelligence. Creativity allows enables an individual to be more flexible and emerge as a better problem solver. 

Here are some ways to help boost creativity in children:

1. Make children question things

Children are naturally inquisitive. By encouraging them to question what they see and hear lays a strong foundation of understanding and critical thinking. Urging kids to wonder and ask questions such as why, how, what if are ways to encourage their curiosity and develop problem-solving skills. Why is the sky blue? How does a bird fly? What if fishes could fly? 

2. Allow them to express their intelligence

Every child is unique. According to the multiple-intelligence theory, every child has a dominant type of intelligence that is used to understand the world and express. The not-so-dominant intelligence in every child can be developed with time. Children must be allowed to express all forms of intelligence and their natural inclination must be encouraged. 

3. Teach multiple ways to solve a problem

From a math problem to a conflict with classmates, a caregiver must introduce children to the concept of multiple solutions to a problem. Giving them an understanding of different perspectives and encouraging empathy helps children develop strong problem-solving skills. It takes a lot of creativity and perspective to find solutions that work for everyone, every time. This is a skill that is extremely useful in personal and professional relationships.

4. Sustain their curiosity 

Creativity is the cornerstone of innovation. Even though children are born curious they need the right environment with a sense of safety and novelty to sustain their curiosity. In the absence of the freedom to ask questions, explore new thoughts, and a rich and novel atmosphere, curiosity can die an early death. Children’s curiosity can be fostered for instance by exposing them to the rich art, culture, and literature of a country and enlightening them of their hidden meanings and implications. Discussions about the environment and the factors that are endangering it. These meaningful conversations expand a child’s knowledge base allowing them to remain curious and continue their learning.

5. Encourage free play

Creative thinking is encouraged in the absence of rules and structure. Free play and the absence of gadgets enable the development of this skill. Not only does free play allow out-of-the-box thinking it also helps in the development of various other skills such as coordination, self-expression, and so on. Handing children a bunch of crayons, encouraging make-believe-play or just some unadulterated time with playdough or sand can do wonders for a child’s creative intelligence.  

6. Foster reading for pleasure 

A creative hobby like reading encourages thought activity which in turn promotes creativity. Reading helps children understand the world at large, builds their vocabulary to express themselves, develops their logical thinking, and imparts new information. Visiting the library, reading to them at bedtime, discussing their favorite books and their characters, and enacting some of the books they love is a great way to build their knowledge base and sustain their curiosity. 

7. Teach creative risk-taking

Children must be encouraged to take creative risks so they can step out of their comfort zones and learn something new, even at the risk of failure. This risk-taking teaches them about their capabilities, encourages them to learn more complicated ideas and skills, and teaches them to be OK with failure. The idea is to teach them to focus more on the creative process than the outcome.

Why Kids ‘R’ Kids?

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

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

The post Kids ‘R’ Kids talks about the importance of creativity and ways to foster it in kids appeared first on Valrico.




















Kids R Kids Of Valrico 20 Years Later

Next Story

from ‘Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop September 2022’

BURGER BOWL

By Taylor Wells

Twenty years ago, in the Eye On Business column on page 17 of our September 2002 FishHawk edition, the Osprey Observer published news about Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico breaking ground later that month, later opening around July 2003. Franchisee co-owners Ben Fernandes and Keith Balot created the academy because they saw a need for quality child care and early education. They later opened a second Circa FishHawk/Lithia location in 2011.

“When we opened up the school, there was absolutely nothing in the Valrico area as far as child care on a big scale like we have,” said Fernandes, adding, “It was a very big investment on our part, we definitely took a risk, and it’s been extremely successful.”

Franchising with Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academies came with its rich curriculum and training for all the staf to ensure they were teaching the curriculum properly, Fernandes said, who added it also started with good security measures and a camera system so parents could check on their children. Plus, the academy is accredited through APPLE and NAEYC.

Nowadays, it also has programs like the Brain Waves®, STEAM Ahead® and ABCmouse®, among others, to foster high-quality early learning. Fernandes believes what makes Kids ‘R’ Kids special is its principle, “Hug First, Then Teach,” and its philosophy of children learning through playing. Kids ‘R’ Kids of Valrico has reached max

Te Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of capacity for 10-15 Valrico building, located at 4321 Lynx Paw years and educated Trl. in Valrico. thousands of children, graduated thousands through its VPK program and employed over 50 staf in its lifetime. Several graduates are employed, like local 17-year-old Troy Gilmore who was in the toddler room and graduated Te Eye On Business column of the Osprey VPK there. Currently,

Observer’s September 2002 FishHawk it has almost 200 kids edition, featuring a story about a Kids ‘R’ and over 25 staf, but Kids Learning Academy location breaking students may still enground in Valrico later that month. roll, and positions are available. It has been going strong since opening, even staying in operation during the pandemic to give kids an education and provide staf and faculty employment, though of course diminished in numbers. In addition, it has been working with Hair We Share for the past five years; helping local elementaries; and afliating with The Grow Group, which helps those with learning disabilities gain meaningful employment. Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico is located at 4321 Lynx Paw Trl. in Valrico. It’s second locaiton in Circa FishHawk across from Stowers Elementary is located at 5815 Kids Crossing Dr, Lithia, FL 33547. For information, visit https://kidsrkids. com/valrico/ or call 813-657-4200.

LA SEPTIMA KEEPS TRADITIONS ALIVE WITH MADE-FROM-SCRATCH CUBAN FARE

By Sharon Still

For nearly three decades, La Septima Cafe has served authentic Cuban fare to the Brandon community. Through a change of location in 2011, having to abruptly shut down due to COVID-19 and struggling to find people who want to work, the restaurant is constantly adapting and continues to attract a crowd daily and nightly. “Without our community support, we would probably not be here today,” proclaimed co-owner Dahlia Fernandez.

She and husband Ronnie have spent a majority of their lives in the restaurant business. “We have never looked back. La Septima is our crown jewel,” she said.

Truly family-owned and operated, daughter Jennifer handles human resources and accounts payable while son RJ is the general manager. Recently, eldest granddaughters Ana and Adriana also joined the team. “Working with family has its challenges, but it has more advantages,” said Dahlia, referring to herself and Ronnie as the ultimate overseers. “It is truly a blessing to have all the watchful eyes on the business.”

Throughout the years, the Fernandez family has remained true to its product and true to its loyal patrons.

La Septima’s tagline, “A Taste of Old Ybor,” is exemplified throughout the menu with items like ropa vieja (flank steak), breaded palomilla steak and pescado a la Rusa (whitefish). Other oferings include soup,

salad, sandwiches and combinations. The Cuban sandwich, devil crabs and Seventh Avenue salad are the most popular and come highly recommended. “Our success comes from our passion to keep every menu item consisLocally owned La Septima was founded tent in flavor and more than 30 years ago by the quality,” remarked

Fernandez family and remains a Dahlia. community favorite. La Septima’s family meals, introduced during the pandemic, also are a big hit and a great bang for your buck with most priced at $39. 95. Suitable for a family of four, guests can choose from a selection of the signature dishes, all of which come with rice, salad, black beans, Cuban bread and a 2-liter bottle of soda At La Septima, everything is made from scratch, including the salad dressing, soup, flan, cheesecake and everything in between. Dahlia stressed the importance of quality food and a friendly staf, noting that the latter proves to be more difcult. “We have made so many friends along the way through these years; we are mostly grateful to this beautiful community for our success,” she added. La Septima Cafe is located in La Viva Plaza at 702 W. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. Dine-in, takeout, delivery and catering are available. Open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., and is closed on Sunday. Visit www.laseptimacafe.com or call 813-685-0502 for further details.

By Ella Martin

Are you looking for a place where you can drink, dine and shop? If so, a new local restaurant called the White Oak Cottage Bistro is the place for you. Created by Shaunessey Dobish and her business partner, Melanie Bentley-Montanaro, this new restaurant aims to create an immersive experience for all visitors.

Located in Lithia, the White Oak Cottage and White Oak Cottage Bistro has become a one-stop destination that allows customers to eat and drink and shop. It’s perfect for a girls’ day out. The boutique has been around for years, as Dobish pursued her lifelong dream to own a design and home furnishing store. Dobish is also an established interior decorator and wanted to create a boutique shopping experience where she could display and sell many unique decor and furniture pieces that she uses in her design business.

Dobish explained why she wanted to create the bistro, saying, “When I was younger, I would go shopping with my mom and sister and then get food after, which were memorable moments for me.”

However, this restaurant is diferent than others, as it has an executive chef that creates high-end food and features deluxe wines from Idaho. Dobish and her family spend their summers in Idaho since they own a baseball league called the Spuds. This allowed Dobish to have access to many Idaho wineries that other restaurants don’t have. Due to the quality and variety of wines Idaho ofers, Dobish decided to bring them into

Before dining, White Oak the White Cottage has beautiful items for Oak Cottage the home. Bistro. It carries Ste. Chapelle wines from two wineries, Sawtooth and Ste. Chapelle. Guests can sample these premier wines by purchasing wine flights that include four glasses of wine which each have a 2 oz. pour. The bistro ofers red wines, white wines and even fruit wines, which include flavors such as peach. Currently, the White Oak Cottage Bistro is open Wednesday through One of the many wine fights the Sunday from 11 a.m.-7 White Oak Cottage Bistro ofers. p.m. However, sometime in mid-August the bistro is going to expand its hours to include a dinner menu. The expansion of the menu will become a reservation-only dinner experience, as it will showcase elite meal selections. The White Oak Cottage and White Oak Cottage Bistro is definitely a destination that everyone should visit. For more information, visit https://thewhiteoakcottage.com/.

YOUTH ZONE RENOVATION GRANT & MORE AT CAMPO FAMILY YMCA

By Libby Hopkins

Campo Family YMCA was founded based on the core character values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

It continues to flourish because those values are as relevant to today’s world as they were in 1844, when a young drapery clerk named George Williams sought to develop a wholesome place for young people to escape the immorality of the London streets during the Industrial Revolution and founded the first YMCA. “Campo Family YMCA just celebrated more than 20 years in the greater Valrico community,” said Campo Y’s executive director, Robyn Ostrem. “Campo Family YMCA has become stronger because of our community.”

Over the last 20 years, Campo Family YMCA has had a total investment of $214,557 from the community through financial assistance to ensure participation in all programs among individuals facing financial hardship in addition to subsidized programs that fill community voids.

The center has also excelled in youth development. “More than 4,500 kids participated in experiences that cultivated values, skills and relationships that led to positive behaviors, better health and educational achievement,” Ostrem said. “In addition to our youth programs, our healthy living programs have impact — more than 17,000 individuals were impacted by Y programs designed to help them improve their health and well-being and connect to new friends.”

Since 1889, the Tampa YMCA has been responding to critical social needs and positively impacting the lives of children, adults and families across Hillsborough and eastern Pasco counties. “More than 2,500 children learned lifesaving skills through drowning prevention programs while thousands of neighbors were served in other

Te Campo Family YMCA has been mission-based prostrengthening the Greater Valrico com- grams at little or no munity for the past 20 plus years through its many programs. cost thanks to charitable contributions,” Ostrem said. “Focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, the Campo Family YMCA has been strengthening the Greater Valrico community for the past 20-plus years by empowering kids to succeed in school and in life, helping community members get healthier, developing leadership skills in teens and water safety skills for all ages in addition to ensuring seniors have engaging opportunities to mitigate social isolation.” Campo Family YMCA recently received a grant from the GTE Foundation to renovate its Youth Zone. “We can’t thank GTE Foundation [enough] for helping us, and we look forward to opening our new Youth Zone in the winter of 2023,” Ostrem said. “We hope the community will join us for our yearly Halloween Trunk and Treat event on Friday, October 28 from 6 p.m.-8 p.m.” If you would like to learn more about Campo Family YMCA, you can visit its website at www.tampaymca.org/locations/ campo-family-ymca or call 813-684-1371. Campo Family YMCA is located at 3414 Culbreath Rd. in Valrico.

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Kids ‘R’ Kids Childcare and Daycare of Valrico

preschool kidsrkidsvalrico
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Tips to prepare a toddler for preschool

Preschool is an exciting new beginning and a significant milestone in children’s education and development. As children join their peers on this journey of preschool education, they acquire crucial life skills, build their confidence, and become increasingly independent as they progress. The transition may seem difficult but parents can take several steps to prepare their children for preschool, and make this a fun and memorable experience. Kids ‘R’ Kids preschool shares how to make this transition a cakewalk.

  1. Check out the preschool

Visiting the chosen preschool and the classroom, and also making an acquaintance with the teacher can calm a few nerves. A few days before joining, parents and children can visit the preschool and discuss the class schedule, what to expect during the day, and any other necessary information. This will make the preschool and classroom less intimidating for the child on the first school day. 

 

  1. Read books about school

Books that tell stories of children going to school and online videos that showcase the fun at school can help allay the anxiety of this transition for children. Books such as “Maisy Goes to Preschool” by Lucy Cousins, “Llama Llama Misses Mama” by Anna Dewdney, “Little School” by Beth Norling, or “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn are good bets for this purpose.

 

  1. Pretend play

Make-believe or pretend-play is the fastest way children learn real-life situations. Parents can pretend-play going to school with a bag and a lunch box. They can narrate an imaginary situation where kids are sitting in a circle listening to stories and playing. Roleplaying with puppets and toys is also an effective tool to portray school and its activities. Talk to children about various activities that happen at school such as lunchtime, reading, and playing with new friends. 

 

  1. Build self-help skills

Certain skills such as washing hands, using the toilet, putting shoes and socks on, and using utensils at the table can be taught to children at home. These skill-sets offer a sense of independence and confidence that will allow children to adapt swiftly to preschool. 

 

  1. Express and acknowledge feelings

Beginning anything new is always fraught with anxiety. Encouraging children to express their feelings and fears helps them work through these emotions. By constantly nurturing them by offering a listening ear and helping them define their feelings can help avoid any regression in other developmental areas as they take the big step towards preschool. Additionally, parents need to acknowledge and work with their feelings about their children stepping out of their comfort zones. 

 

  1. Alter the schedule

Way before preschool begins, parents and children should alter their schedules to prepare for the upcoming preschool schedule. Make changes in bedtime or dinner routines slowly or gradually change the routines that may interfere with the upcoming school routine. Children thrive with routine as it helps them anticipate and prepare themselves mentally. So parents must ensure that the transition to the school schedule is as smooth as possible. 

 

Why Kids ‘R’ kids?

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

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

Call today at (813) 657-6200 to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids preschool (Kindergarten to Grade 5) or to schedule a visit. 

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The importance of play for preschoolers 

Research has proven that the most important period of human development is from birth to eight years old. Learning during these years happens at a pace that will never be matched. This is when cognitive skills, emotional well-being, social competence, and sound physical and mental health develops, laying a strong foundation for a successful adult. Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico, an educational preschool, shares the importance of structured and unstructured play for preschoolers that helps them prepare for formal school.

Structured and unstructured play

Structured play is also called goal-oriented or guided play. It is an activity that comes with structured instructions and has a specific learning objective for a preschooler. It is composed of planned activities that are supervised by adults – parents and teachers. 

However, organizing every detail for children can hamper the development process. Children need to be allowed to use their imagination and individual creativity to learn and grow. 

Unstructured play or free play is focused on creative, improvised forms of activity. It may involve both outdoor and indoor activities wherein the child can take decisions and solve problems independently. Activities may range from pretend play to building blocks and exploring a garden.  

One major drawback of unstructured play is that the child cannot be left alone even for a moment and should be under the parent’s supervision at all times, especially the younger preschool kids. They must be educated about how to keep themselves safe and to recognize the possible dangers around them.

Benefits of play on a child’s development

1. Fosters effective communication

Play enables a child to develop important speech, language as well as listening skills. During play led by preschool teachers or parents, children need to listen to instructions and follow directions to complete a task. This ability to listen and understand helps build communication skills. During unstructured play and without any company children may narrate their pretend play story and practice the words and expressions learned. An unstructured group play will require the children to communicate, discuss, negotiate, and compromise. All this play leads to the development of effective communication skills and a teamwork spirit.  

2. Develops social skills

Unstructured as well as structured play drives children towards the achievement of a shared goal. The collaboration makes children perceptive of each other’s needs, builds assertiveness, teaches negotiation skills, develops cooperation skills, and reinforces the importance of sharing. Ultimately, this group play fosters social skills and children learn to make friends. Through play, children learn to work through their emotions and learn to recognize non-verbal cues, which are important components of language development and social skills. 

3. Builds critical thinking and motor skills

Critical thinking is the ability to think in an organized and rational manner to understand connections between ideas and/or facts. This skill involves the part of the front part of the brain that manages attention, memory, control, and flexibility. Children are constantly making these connections in their world and expanding their knowledge. For instance, they learn numeracy and literacy skills while playing with various toys and books, or while playing with shapes, or counting the pages in a book. 

Physical play is crucial for the development of important motor skills and emotion regulation. Large motor skills like running, throwing, and pedaling; fine motor skills such as writing, coloring, and buttoning; balancing skills like skipping; strength-building by climbing monkey bars; and coordination through sports are some of the numerous skills that emerge from play. Eventually, children become completely independent as their motor and other body skills develop. 

4. Boosts confidence

Most play requires creativity, but imaginative play, in particular, is great for building confidence. It allows children to practice what they see in real life and work through real-world problems. Play is a safe place to practice decision-making and build confidence. Structured play enables children to participate in risky play and test what they are capable of. This is a test of their limits as they work towards their goals in a safe space. As they succeed in achieving their goals in a safe space, their confidence develops and allows them to step out of their comfort zone to learn more.

5. Inspires creativity

Creativity is the final sum of critical thinking and skill development. Pretend play is one of the foundations in children’s world as it allows them to explore and analyze various scenarios, reactions, and conclusions. It exposes them to cause and effect. As per studies, pretend play leads to more sophisticated levels of interaction and higher cognitive ability. 

In conclusion, children need a mix of both structured and unstructured play during their developing years. Structured play provides rules, discipline, and continuity, while free play balances it out with freedom and imagination. Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico provides the ideal environment for preschoolers to learn through play and grow into creative, confident, and empathetic individuals.

Why Kids ‘R’ kids?

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

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

Call today at (813) 657-6200 to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids preschool (Kindergarten to Grade 5) or to schedule a visit. 

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Educational preschool explains the importance of reading and how to inculcate the habit at an early age

“Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” – Joseph Addison

Language is the most powerful tool human beings possess. And reading is one of the most fulfilling and effective means to master this tool. The habit of reading, if inculcated at an early age, helps in brain development and enhances imagination. It’s never too early to read to a child and to build this habit. It’s a gift for a lifetime.

Kids ‘R’ Kids, a preschool learning center, shares some of the amazing benefits of reading for young children:

1. Cognitive development

Children acquire a deep understanding of their world and receive background knowledge. This helps them make sense of what they see, hear, and read, which aids their cognitive development.

2. Better vocabulary

Reading at an early age not only helps children learn new words and new ways to express themselves, but it also improves their grammar and teaches new concepts. 

 3. Enhanced empathy

Reading allows children to understand various emotions. This helps in their emotional and social development since they learn to associate their feelings with words and find a way to express themselves better. Books showcase various characters and perspectives which allows children to be more empathetic. The cause and effect concept in stories helps develop their analytical skills besides encouraging curiosity, which is crucial to learning. 

4. Bonding between parent and child

Reading time is a beautiful ritual that allows parents and children to connect and unwind. Children love to hear stories from parents while parents find it relaxing to be in a space of fantasy and wonder. Stories trigger conversations and questions that help a child learn and express. Not only is this ritual enjoyable but it also triggers a positive association in a child’s mind. 

5. Sparks curiosity

Only a curious mind attempts to learn. Stories are an insight into parts of the world that are yet unknown to children. A variety of topics present possibilities to children and intrigues them. A book on famous artists, butterflies across the world or the universe may inspire children to explore further and learn more. It also allows children to learn about different cultures and people.

6. Develops concentration

Regular and consistent reading helps to improve children’s concentration abilities. As they sit still and listen for long periods, it builds patience that benefits them at school.

7. Creativity

Reading a book encourages the use of imagination. Characters, costumes, buildings, situations, and dialogues create a visual impression while reading. This imagination sparks further creativity that may help build other life skills.  

8. Reduced screen time

Children’s brains need stimulation to learn and grow. In times of gadgets and games, children have become addicted to screen time that hampers their brain development. They tend to stay home and not interact with their peers. They become physically unhealthy as they spend hours on screen. On the other hand, books inspire children to learn and develop, and explore the world around them.

How to build this wonderful habit at an early age?

At Kids ‘R’ Kids, the curriculum for all age groups (infants to grade 5) revolves around cognitive, physical, literacy, language, social, and emotional development. And story-telling and books are an inherent part of its preschool culture. Here are a few tips on how parents and teachers can build a reading habit in children:

1. Start early

Reading to a young infant may seem like a futile exercise but really isn’t. Children love to hear their parents’ soothing voices and watch their expressions for cues. This habit creates a sense of routine and security for them, which will ensure they continue enjoying reading as they grow older. Investing in some cloth books, touch-and-feel books, puppet books, and board books with ample illustrations would be a good place to start.

2. It’s all in the picture

Young children respond well to pictures and colors. Books with rich illustrations such as pop-up books or books with 3D images are an ideal buy. The association children will make between visuals and the limited text would help them learn new words and expressions during the reading time. 

3. Let them choose

Allowing children to pick up books of their choice will always ensure more interest. This ability to choose gives them a sense of power and makes them stick to their decisions.

4. Once more

All children have their favorites and will, without a doubt, ask for the same story repeatedly. This indicates an understanding of the story and the desire to learn more about the story. There is an invisible connection they are making between words and real situations. 

5. Set an example

Children learn by imitation. When they see their parents read, they will be curious and will want to imitate. Habits and enthusiasm are always contagious.

6. Learn how kids read

Knowing about the reading skills that a child must possess at a certain age helps a parent choose the right books. This knowledge enables parents to keep track of their children’s development and make amends if the need be. The team at Kids ‘R’ kids would be delighted to make suggestions and provide information on this.

Why Kids ‘R’ kids?

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

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

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

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Kids ‘R’ Kids is a unique childcare facility in Valrico, Florida. They offer an exclusive package with renowned VPK programs to emphasize what children are already learning in Pre-K schools and reinforcing these developmental skills. One of the most common questions these educational professionals receive is whether a child is ready for a summer camp program and all the Pre-K activities involved.

Five Signs That a Pre-K Age Child is Ready For a Summer Camp Program

#1 Does the Child Want to Make New Friends?

Summer camp programs are an excellent way to practice people skills and foster new friendships. While shy kids may find it difficult at first, all children benefit from new and interesting conversations with others who share their interests. If a child is interested in the idea of making new friends, it may be time to enroll them in a summer camp program.

#2 Is the Child Eager to Try New Activities?

If a child is fairly confident in new situations or eager to try Pre-K games with their age group, it’s a good sign they are ready for a day camp. A setting like Kids ‘R’ Kids does wonders for positive learning, including an adaptable Pre-K lesson plan, highly educated staff, and the latest technology inside and outside the classroom. 

Summer day camps offer a wide range of activities and programs. The children who attend them have the chance to try new activities that may be inaccessible in regular classrooms, including sports, art, music, dancing, and STEAM-focused childcare programs. There are so many engaging educational activities available through summer day camps, and children can explore their interests in a safe, fun environment.

#3 How Comfortable and Independent Are They with Everyday Tasks?

Children need to be somewhat independent to attend a summer camp. It might be tasks like feeding themselves, taking care of basic hygiene, and displaying confidence when faced with new experiences. All these aspects are essential indicators that a child is almost ready for summer camp interactions.

A younger child should also be familiar with Pre-K basics before attending a summer camp program, including pre-k sight words needed for instructional content.

#4 Can the Child Follow Directions and Receive Feedback?

If the child listens well and can follow directions, a summer camp program will be beneficial. Whether they are playing sports, tackling a nature adventure, or performing in a recital, following directions is a meaningful sign that summer camp will be an enjoyable experience.

The child’s ability to listen to adults and teachers who give them feedback is just as important. Camp counselors will be leading them in activities and teaching them new skills, so the child must be able to handle regular constructive criticism.

#5 Summer Camps or childcare facilities Near Me

The most important sign that a child is ready for a summer camp program is that they are interested in attending one. If they show signs of excitement when the idea comes up, take the opportunity to discuss it and apply it together. Summer camps and summer childcare programs are very popular and fill up fast, so enrolling as soon as possible is the key to grabbing a spot.

Kids ‘R’ Kids provides childcare and after-school programs and summer day camp options in Valrico, Florida, including the communities of Brandon and the Greater Tampa area. For more information about their Pre-K facilities and educational philosophy, contact their educators at (813) 657-6200 or visit the premises by appointment at Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico, FL 33596.

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After school programs offer a variety of benefits for children and parents alike. Working parents leverage extracurricular programs to allow a little more time to travel from the office to the school and flexibility with traffic peaks. The arrangement might also be a convenient alternative for responsible childcare options on longer days with looming deadlines. 

For the children, these interactive programs offer a wide range of opportunities for growth and development as academic students and as impressionable young people. 

Four Tips for Effective After School Programs for Pre-K Age Children

Pre-K schools and daycare programs offer a plethora of activities after the school day finishes. These care programs provide attendees with an established time for homework and playtime in a safe learning environment. VPK programs also allow children to participate in Pre-K activities that prepare them to take the next step toward kindergarten. 

When paired with educational games or constructive activities, Pre-K lessons foster discovery and a sense of wonder. A Pre-K lesson plan should be both effective and enjoyable, and after-school programs particularly aim to achieve this balance with their Pre-K participants. The best approach is through fairness, participation, connection, and organization.

1. Fairness First

In after-school programs for any age group, it is important to practice fairness toward every student. There will be occasions where an educator will need to make exceptions, but clear explanations will help establish trust between the children and the educators within the program. Even the slightest hint of bias is unpalatable for the children attending, and it quickly leads to problems for the educator in maintaining control and connection.

Educators should be aware of distributing resources and individual attention equitably at every opportunity.

2. Encourage Participation

A primary benefit of after-school programs is that they help children develop stronger social skills with their peers. Shy children will often actively participate in activities, and the educator can encourage this behavior by emphasizing a particular lesson rather than a win-lose environment. 

Educators should let the children ask questions about the rules and discuss the expectations of the program’s leaders from the beginning of the year. It is also important to limit access to distractions during instruction.

3. Communication Matters

Effective communication is a vital part of social development in a child. Teachers should be aware of their communication style and use simple language. When students communicate feelings through positive behaviors, it is right to reward them as a form of encouragement. 

A positive attitude is an excellent antidote to deviant behavior. Calm and reasonable responses from an educator demonstrate the behavior the children should display. Adults leading the program can also participate in certain activities or Pre-K games to foster a sense of fun that encourages open communication in a safe environment.

4. More Organization, Less Stress

An orderly space is beneficial for everyone. Educators should: 

  • Divide the area into workstations and keep everything consolidated
  • Arrange materials beforehand to avoid unnecessary downtime to regroup after each activity

Teaching the students to clean and organize the area after activities also helps foster a sense of ownership for the after-school learning program.

Daycares Near Me in Valrico, FL After School Programs

A fun and safe learning environment is of utmost importance in Pre-K after-school programs. It should teach valuable skills, like Pre-K sight words, and provide a safe environment for children to learn and grow.

The Kids ‘R’ Kids program provides after-school programs in Valrico, Florida, from Pre-K to 5th Grade. Contact the Kids ‘R’ Kids staff today to learn more about the enrollment process or make an appointment to visit their facility at 4321 Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico, FL 33596.

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Choosing the right VPK program and school is essential to building a child’s educational foundation. Parents here in Valrico, Florida, often have questions about what their child will be learning in Pre-K and how these lesson plans prepare them for school in the future.

When enrolling in an accredited school like Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy, here is what families and children can expect from a VPK program:

What Kids Learn in VPK Programs

#1: Emergent Literacy Skills

VPK programs are responsible for giving children the tools they need to become strong readers and writers. As they learn and grow, children learn the most important literacy skills needed to prepare them for school in the future. 

Several foundations of these skills include:

  • Alphabet knowledge – Children will learn all the alphabet letters and the most common sounds associated with them.
  • Phonological awareness – Phonological awareness is the ability to recognize and work with sounds in the spoken language. Pre-K age children will learn about compound words, syllables, and rhyming.
  • Pre-K sight words – Children learn to memorize the most common words found in children’s books, including “service words” (such as ‘a,’ ‘the,’ ‘and’) and other high-frequency words. This memorization makes reading easier and allows them to focus on other words while reading new material.

Great VPK programs also promote independent reading and help children develop a love for books.

#2: Vocabulary Development

Children will be exposed to new vocabulary words throughout the year, both written and spoken. Learning new words will build the foundation children need to become better speakers, readers, and writers.

#3: Mathematical Thinking Skills

Children are introduced to important mathematical thinking skills related to number sense and operations. These lessons are taught alongside other important mathematical skills, including geometry, pattern recognition, and measurement.

#4: Language and Communication Skills

Fostering a language-rich environment is important for any child in VPK. Children will have the opportunity to tell stories, ask questions, participate in discussions with their teachers and classmates, explain their ways of thinking, and much more. 

#5: Social and Emotional Development

The benefits of enrolling a child in a VPK program go beyond what they might expect to learn in school. Highly-skilled teachers focus on equally important social and emotional skills throughout the year.

Children are taught how to nurture relationships with adults and their peers, learn about self-control and expression, and develop critical thinking strategies.

Humanity and compassion are also important for social and emotional development. Kids will learn how to recognize others’ feelings, sympathize with those feelings, and consider needs outside of their own.

#6: Pre-K Games and Activities

Learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom. Good teachers encourage learning through games and activities. In addition to growing their minds, these activities help develop motor skills while encouraging safe and healthy playtime. Children also participate in these games and activities to learn how to work together with their classmates.

About Kids ‘R’ Learning Academy

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy offers accredited VPK programs, after-school programs, summer programs, and more in Valrico, FL. Their thoughtful curriculums and highly-skilled teachers create an environment to help children succeed in Pre-K, kindergarten, and beyond. To start your child on the road to success, contact Kids ‘R’ Kids today by filling out a simple enrollment inquiry form.

Contact Information:

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Circa / FishHawk

5815 Kids Crossing Dr

Lithia, FL 33547

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Preparing your child for preschool means more than teaching them the alphabet and how to count. Social skills development is necessary for their future academic success, and it helps them become effective communicators as they grow into adulthood. Engaging your child in pre-k activities is not only a way for them to have fun, but it also helps them develop these vital skills.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico has accredited daycare programs for preschoolers. Their pre-k lesson plan includes small group instruction and social-emotional activities to prepare them for kindergarten. Below, these professionals discuss several pre-k games and activities to help your little one improve their social awareness and communication skills.

Pre-K Activities to Improve Your Child’s Social Skills

Arrange Playdates

When your child attends kindergarten, they will be around other children their age. For some children, this environmental change can be an overwhelming ordeal, especially if they’re not used to being around other children. 

Before it’s time for your child to attend school, consider arranging playdates with other kids at or near their age. Playdates will acclimate them to interactions with other children. You can allow them to make up their own games or organize different pre-k activities like finger painting or block building. 

Regular social interaction can lead to:

  • Improved creativity
  • Better language and communication skills
  • Understanding teamwork
  • A boost in self-confidence

Role Play

Role-playing is an interactive game you can use to engage your child’s imagination. You can take turns acting out different emotions like happiness, sadness, excitement, and anger. This step can help your child learn about different emotions and how to detect them in themselves and other people. 

You can even use puppets to act out different roles or scenarios with your child and teach them:

  • The importance of sharing and how to include others in play
  • How to respectfully disagree 
  • How to give compliments
  • How to have empathy 
  • How to listen and take turns talking

Play Board Games

Board games are an excellent way to teach your three- or four-year-old how to follow the rules while achieving a goal. When they play with your or another child, they can learn how to deal with friendly competition. It also teaches them how to wait their turn, solve problems, and cope with loss. 

Simple board games like Chutes and Ladders and Candyland don’t require skill, and they are effective tools for showing young children that luck can change fast. These games can teach them how to deal with change while enjoying time with family and friends.

Read Books to Your Child

Reading to your preschooler offers many developmental benefits like recognizing words and language and distinguishing reality from fantasy. Books can also build social skills because they will learn about different characters, their emotions, and their interactions within the story. 

Books provide plenty of topics for you and your child to discuss. By taking the opportunity to encourage discussion, you can help your child develop logic, reasoning, and communication skills.

About Kids ‘R’ Kids of Valrico

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico, Florida, offers before and after school programs, VPK programs, and age-appropriate curriculum to pre-k age children. As one of the area’s leading pre-k schools, their experienced staff will help your child prepare for elementary school and assist with their social skills development. 

For more details about their preschool childcare program, call (813) 657-6200. You can also receive up-to-date news about their offerings and activities by following them on Facebook.

Contact Information:

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico

4321 Lynx Paw Trail

Valrico, FL, 33596

(813) 657-6200

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In the United States, 1 in 5 children is unsupervised from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. A quality after school program can turn those hours into a constructive learning opportunity. According to the Afterschool Alliance, a nonprofit organization, 94% of parents report that after school programs help their kids get excited about learning, which leads to improved school performance.

Before and after school programs are especially beneficial in strengthening the social, intellectual, emotional, and physical skills of Pre-K-age students. Florida recognizes the benefits of VPK programs (voluntary Pre-Kindergarten) by providing them to 4- and 5-year-olds at no cost, regardless of family income. When evaluating VPK programs, a family should choose a respected preschool like Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy in Valrico, Florida, which offers much more than daycare programs.

Top Benefits of Before and After School Programs

Children who attend Pre-K programs are more likely to arrive at kindergarten with the skills needed for long-term academic and social achievement. Studies show that after-school programs support everything from increasing a child’s future earning potential to reducing delinquency.  Pre-K schools like Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy put young students on the path to success through an evidence-based curriculum that incorporates Pre-K games with Pre-K activities.

The top three benefits of Pre-K programs include:

1. Helps prepare children for kindergarten and later academic success

A child’s brain grows exponentially in the years before kindergarten. A good Pre-K program relies on a Pre-K lesson plan that focuses on essential skills through hands-on learning. A program might combine a Pre-K sight words lesson with a game or art activity to engage a young child fully. Research shows that children who attended high-quality Pre-K programs are:

  • More likely to score higher in math and reading tests
  • More likely to graduate from high school
  • More likely to find employment at well-paying jobs after high school
  • Less likely to be arrested or struggle with substance abuse

2. Supports emotional and social development

A child’s emotional and social health is essential for development and learning. Research shows that children with good mental health are more motivated to learn, make stronger friendships, and achieve higher academic performance as they age. A curriculum-based Pre-K program supports social and emotional growth through teaching children to:

  • Take turns and share
  • Show empathy to classmates
  • Regulate strong emotions
  • Improve self-confidence

3. Encourages physical development

Physical development also is key to a child’s learning ability. Pre-K programs support the development of fine motor skills that help children write, draw, and type. Learning through play supports whole-body movement to improve coordination and balance. Also, regular exercise through a Pre-K program can:

  • Strengthen the brain center that regulates memory
  • Improve a child’s test-taking performance
  • Boost reading, math, and spelling scores
  • Help develop healthy physical and nutritional habits

Looking for a Pre-K Program in Valrico, FL?

Hillsborough County residents who search for “daycares near me” should make sure to select a Pre-K program that focuses on encouraging academic, social, and physical growth through curriculum-based activities and games. Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy, located at 4321 Lynx Paw Trail, Valrico, FL 33596, has years of experience, giving parents confidence that the program will prepare their children for kindergarten and future success.

Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy offers a safe and secure environment that provides:

  • Online video monitoring of classrooms
  • Innovative and fun accredited programs
  • Nutritious meals and snacks

Interested parents should call Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy today at 813-657-6200 or contact the academy online to plan a visit.

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Avoiding close contact with others is one of the first protective measures that societies worldwide implemented to prevent COVID-19 transmission. To cope with the health crisis, educators resorted to online platforms, which have proved highly successful in purely academic settings.

However, in pre-k schools, learning is about more than receiving the delivered curriculum. In these schools, children learn through play and social interaction with classmates and teachers. Like higher-level schools, preschools with after-school programs have frequently needed to use virtual platforms such as virtual VPK programs to provide small children with engaging jobs to help them learn remotely.

Following are some tips and insights you can follow to improve your child’s virtual preschool experience.

Maintain Normal Routines

The sudden transition from a regular school routine to learning from home can be highly disruptive, especially to young children. One of the most effective ways to ensure familiarity with virtual learning is to stick to daily routines.

The Online Learning Academy Program from Kids ‘R’ Kids implements fixed virtual class times on weekdays, making it simple to maintain regular routines. The pre-k lesson plan for ages four and five has two different classes per day – one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Manage Your Expectations

If you don’t have a background in early childhood development, you may fall into the trap of expecting too much from your child. As a facilitator of the Online Academy Program, be sure to realize that each child will learn at his or her own pace.

The Online Academy Program from Kids ‘R’ Kids offers various high-value features, including a subscription to abcmouse.com, educational pre-k games, music and movement, and pre-k sight words. A visual schedule with each week’s objectives can be of substantial value in managing your child’s expectations.

Incorporate Home Extension Activities

Just as adults do, your child will start experiencing screen fatigue at some point. Staring at a screen will also not give your child the sensory stimulation and personal interaction they need to learn and develop.

Kids ‘R’ Kids has home extension activities and downloadable class materials available for you as a parent to use to promote learning in a real-world setting after the virtual screen session ends. Extension activities help children apply the information they learned to everyday situations and interactions with both people and objects.

Participate and Show Enthusiasm

Small children often don’t know how to respond to their virtual lessons. An integral part of a parent’s facilitating these programs is demonstrating to your child what she or he should do when taking part in the Online Learning Academy.

Enthusiastically answering the teachers’ questions, singing along, and dancing—all will help your child feel comfortable participating and having fun in front of the computer screen. Afterward, ask your child questions about the class to promote engagement and interest.

About the Company

Kids ‘R’ Kids is a family-owned learning academy offering a wide range of innovative learning programs. The curriculum focuses on five core areas of education: technology, science, engineering, math, and art. Kids ‘R’ Kids understands the importance of providing parents with complete access to and information about their children’s progress.

Please be sure to contact Kids ‘R’ Kids today to find out how you and your child might benefit from the Online Learning Academy’s curriculum.

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Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico, FL, aims for all the children enrolled at the educational preschool to have the opportunity to grow physically, emotionally, socially, and intellectually by playing, exploring, and learning with others in a fun, safe, and healthy environment. The staff and teachers, working in conjunction with the parents and caregivers, fulfill this mission by addressing the whole child.

Studies confirm that children benefit from exposure to outdoor levels of illumination which far exceed the lighting level in a typical classroom. Bright light, which improves mood and concentration, may help prevent disease, circadian rhythm disorders, and nearsightedness. Breaking research indicates that bright light has a significant effect on the brain and may foster the formation of new nerve endings and improve learning.

Comparison of outdoor daylight and artificial indoor lighting

Sunlight:

  • Sunny day: 100,000 lux (A unit for measuring light)
  • Cloudy: 10,000-40,000 lux
  • Overcast and gloomy: 1,000 lux

Artificial Lighting:

  • Brightly lit classroom: 500 lux
  • Watching TV in the den: 50 lux

Indoor lighting is dramatically less than outdoor sunlight, which is disconcerting. The bright light levels found outside benefit children. Consider the following benefits of sunlight and bright light.

Benefit: Bright light offers positive effects on mood.

Bright light has an animating effect on people. The mood is elevated by bright light, and bright light therapy can effectively provide some relief for depression.

Benefit: Daily exposure to bright light of 15,000 lux or higher may protect children from developing myopia.

According to research on the matter, outdoor playtime decreases the risk of developing nearsightedness. Reasons are not entirely understood for the decrease, but the effects of exposure to light seem to be the source of the improved eyesight.

Benefit: Sunlight helps children generate good levels of vitamin D.

Sufficient amounts of vitamin D helps protect children from a wide range of unwanted health conditions. Low levels of vitamin D can put children at increased risk for cardiovascular disease, poor bone health, and a reduction in the function of the muscles. Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to a decrease in mental planning skills or brain fog.

Benefit: Sunlight may keep children from having multiple sclerosis (MS) when they grow up.

Numerous studies link high levels of sunlight exposure during childhood to a reduced risk of MS. Sunlight, apart from vitamin D, maybe the agent that helps stave off MS.

Benefit: Exposure to bright morning sunlight can help prevent delayed bedtimes.

Children who have been out in the sunlight seem to be more prone to go to sleep earlier and less prone to experience sleep-related behavior problems. Parents should be aware that delayed bedtimes may not have a negative impact as long as wake-up times are later. However, when children must rise early for school, delayed bedtimes and the corresponding lack of sleep can negatively impact children. Research seems to suggest that delayed bedtimes and lack of sleep are linked with poor academic performance and behavior problems. Catch up sleep, such as a nap, can help to overcome the effects of a sleep deficit.

Why do kids fail to go to sleep on schedule? Part of the problem stems from lighting. There is exposure to too little sunlight during the day and exposure to excessive amounts of artificial lighting at night. Children’s circadian rhythms are out of rhythm with a twenty-four-hour day.

Some practical and easy solutions that can be implemented include:

  • Avoiding artificial lighting at night.
  • Stopping the use of electronic devices an hour before bedtime.
  • Getting a dose of bright morning light helps kids with chronic bedtime problems get back on track.

Does daylight make children smarter?

Consider the following research:

  • Vitamin D is beneficial for mental planning skills.
  • Late bedtimes resulting from too little bright sunlight can increase attention problems.
  • Exposure to bright light might improve mental performance.
  • Bright lights elevate mood, which could be an important motivator at school.
  • Children involved in a recent study preferred brightly lit classrooms (1,300 to 4,400 lux) to poorly lit classrooms (250-740 lux).

Bright lighting has additional benefits:

  • Children read more fluently in classrooms that have very bright lighting.
  • Recent experiments suggest that bright light may have a direct effect on the ability to learn. Removing bright light and keeping children indoors in dimly lit rooms might lead to learning deficits.

It is important that children be exposed to bright sunlight and bright artificial lighting in the classroom. Parents, preschool teachers, and caregivers have something to gain by going the extra mile to ensure that every child receives his or her time in the sun.

Precautions do need to be taken against harmful UVB rays. Hats and sunscreen are vital protective gear when sunlight is intense. Children need daylight for their health and overall well-being because research suggests that enjoying nature and being outdoors is intrinsically beneficial.

For more information about the Valrico, FL, preschool, contact Kids ‘R’ Kids Learning Academy of Valrico, FL, by phone at (813) 657-6200.

The post Preschool Learning Center Highlights the Benefits of Sunlight for Children appeared first on Valrico.

Published First on: Blog – Valrico https://kidsrkids.com/valrico/preschool/preschool-learning-center-highlights-the-benefits-of-sunlight-for-children/

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Kids ‘R’ Kids, Valrico shares how to impart financial literacy to kids

Raising financial-wise children

It is never too early to teach a child the value of money. It is an education that can begin with a simple introduction and graduate to more advanced concepts. This financial literacy for kids is crucial towards building a responsible adult. Kids ‘R’ Kids Valrico shares some interesting activities that can help build financial wisdom in children in a fun, engaging, and age-appropriate manner. 

What is financial literacy?

Financial literacy is a set of skills that allows people to make smart decisions about their money. It allows people to have an understanding of making, saving, spending (including donating), and investing money. Financial literacy for kids can begin by creating a basic foundation of money management. This may include how to earn money and make minor decisions around it. 

 

Financial literacy activities for kids

Learning is most effective with experience. Educational activities allow kids to learn about numbers and finances as well as develop a responsible attitude towards money. Here are some activities to begin with. 

1. Learning numerical value: The first step is to teach young kids the numerical value of coins. For instance, teaching them that a nickel equals 5 and a quarter is 25. Holding and observing the coins of different sizes, shapes, weights, and colors allows them to learn. Once the basics are clear, kids can be taught how to combine currencies to reach a certain amount. This numerical literacy is the base for financial education.  

2. Money transactions: The concept that money is transactional can be taught with real-life experience. When visiting a store to purchase a toy or other items, allow the child to pay cash or the credit card to the cashier. This experience will clarify the concept of money.

3. Make-believe play: Pretend play has a high success rate when teaching concepts to children. Set up a pretend farmer’s market or pizza shop where selling and buying of items can be practiced. This activity also allows children to experience different roles and jobs. 

4. Needs vs wants: The line between need and wants is often a blurry one. Helping a child create a list of things they need and want can highlight what is important and what isn’t. Cutting pictures from magazines and creating a list is a fun way to do this activity. Using practical examples, parents and teachers can talk about needs such as food, water, shelter, and clothing vis a vis wants such as toys and candies.  

5. Age-appropriate books: Reading is a wonderful virtue that allows children to learn concepts with illustrations and creativity. Here are some finance-related books that can help: 

  • Coat of Many Colors by Dolly Parton (Preschool – Gr. 2)
  • Bunny Money by Rosemary Wells (Ages 3-5)
  • The Money We’ll Save by Brock Cole (Ages 4-8)
  • Arthur’s Funny Money by Lillian Hoban (Gr. 1-3)
  • How Much Is That Doggie in the Window? by Iza Trapani (Ages 2-5)
  • Aida’s Violin by Susan Hood (Gr. 2-5)

 

6. Chores to earn money: As children comprehend the basics of money and its transactional nature, household chores are another way of teaching them the value and nature of money. This may or may not be every parent’s choice though. Children may choose to do small tasks in exchange for a payment. These jobs may include walking the neighbor’s pet or watering plants – whatever is age-appropriate.

 

7. Money instead of gifts: Managing one’s own money is a crucial step to financial literacy. Encourage family and friends to give children money instead of toys for birthdays and milestones. Children can save this money in a piggy bank or a savings account.

8. Budgeting: Once children have learned to save, they can learn to budget the money to achieve certain goals. For instance, opening a lemonade stand. This is a very educational and fun way to teach kids about creating a budget – buy supplies, understand supply and demand cycle, follow work ethics, and set goals. The end goal for the lemonade stand could be to save more money for a bigger task, donate to charity, or buy a long-awaited toy. 

9. Discuss financial decisions: The way a parent saves and spends money influences a child’s values and choices, going forward. Discussing with children the financial decisions parents make is a crucial step to helping them understand the array of spending and saving choices that exist. A young child may be able to understand why a parent let go of a fancy car to plan a vacation for the family instead. Or why a parent chose to invest money in mending the old car instead of buying a new one. Let children be witnesses to these decisions and discussions.

These activities and experiences may seem uncomfortable at first and even too complex. However, children learn from experience, repetition, and imitation. As they are regularly exposed to financial concepts and decisions, they will slowly and steadily acquire financial wisdom.

Why Kids ‘R’ kids?

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

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

Call today at (813) 657-6200 to learn more about Kids ‘R’ Kids preschool (Kindergarten to Grade 5) or to schedule a visit. 

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Testimonials – Kois Center

“John has an amazing ability to help shape a new paradigm in how we think and evaluate critically. He is an incredibly effective educator and mentor. John’s abilities have not only positively changed my dental practice, but have also contributed to a significant change in my personal life. Do it, you won’t regret it!”.

Dr. John W. Buzza

Santa Rosa, CA

Kois Center Director Dr. John Kois works with students


“There are few people in life who can change an industry one person at a time; even fewer who has the integrity, passion, and leadership of Dr. Kois My time in the clinical programs of the Kois Center has laid a solid foundation of predictable systems that we use daily with our clients in pursuit of “restorative excellence” I recommend these programs for all members of the profession who wish to treat their patients in a holistic way to understand how and where to control risk and ensure consistent and predictable results.”

Mr. Leon Hermanides

Redmond, WA

Kois Center Director Dr. John Kois – Learning by Doing


I will look at my teeth the way I used to. I learned more about occlusion in one hour than I did in four years of dental school.Dr. Kois was so passionate about the material that I was hooked and couldn’t wait to learn more.He is a natural teacher Kois courses are an investment in your future Each course pays off time and time again Dr. Kois presents systems that simplify your practice and are easy to implement Dr. Kois uses the most up-to-date research from the literature in his teaching activities This is a scientifically based management system for each patient.Dr. Kois understands that each patient is different, requires a different level of treatment, and that not everyone should receive the same treatment. The Kois Center will help you learn how to satisfy your patients and reduce stress in your practice.”

Dr. Michael Young

Troy, Michigan

Kois Center Director Dr. John Kois demonstrates a bite registration exercise.


“In a dental world full of deceit and confusion, it’s great to find a true teacher in John Coyce. He offers literature and systematic approaches to all aspects of dentistry, from planning, dental procedures, to laboratory and staff management. I learned why I had difficulty with certain cases, why I had failures and why I had successes After attending Dr. Kois’ seminars I learned more about dentistry, life, people and most importantly about myself than in any other course advanced training combined. I have been with Dawson, Strupp, Speer and Christensen. I have learned a lot from them all and am grateful for the experience, but Kois’ practical and intelligent teaching has helped me become the most confident, consistent and successful.”

Dr. Jeff Bynum

Valrico, FL

Kois Center Director Dr. John Kois and Kois Center instructor Dr. Doug Thompson demonstrate during class.


“The Kois Center is by far the most advanced and well-organized center I have ever seen. The wealth of information I have learned is invaluable, and this is from the point of view of a laboratory assistant. The courses I have taken bring communication between patient, clinician and laboratory to the next level.Each course develops a comprehensive system for each phase of dentistry and is backed by research, not opinion.Any doctor in dentistry or laboratory will benefit tremendously from these courses and gain a new level of confidence in patient care and risk management.This the center has raised the bar for advanced education to a whole new level! Everyone who attends one course will definitely sign up for others.”

Mr. Colin Gibb

Mesa, AZ

Kois Center Director Dr. John Kois explains real-time patient examination results.


“Dr. John Kois and the Kois Center continue to be an inspiration and support in my life. Dr. Kois is one of the best teachers I have ever met. He uses an evidence-based approach and specific systems to ensure that any student has a great opportunity for growth. “This clarity makes it easy to put what he has learned into practice. His patience, knowledge of dentistry and concern for his students and their patients is unmatched in my experience. I cannot recommend Dr. Kois and the Kois Center highly enough.”

Dr. Mark J Bechard

New York, NY

Kois Center Director Dr. John Kois works with students


“I really must say that with the help of Dr. Kois I was able to apply systems and knowledge that I’ve accumulated over the years and sort out the oddities that have eluded me over the years Dr. Kois helps sort out the mumbo jumbo producers and lecturers by examining the scientific evidence that either confirms or refutes their claims while keeping it fresh , relevance and most importantly, lack of indulgence.The center is designed to encourage learning and discussion in a safe environment, so that different opinions can be discussed and consensus can be reached without getting in the way of the ego.I consider Dr. Kois an excellent teacher, organizer and keeper of useful information that is practical and useful for daily work at the forefront of dentistry, in the dental office. He has given me the tools I need to be profitable, successful, happy in my job, allowing me to enjoy dentistry, my patients, my staff and my family. I highly recommend his courses.”

Dr. Jeffrey E. Hallstead

Canandaigua, NY

Weather in Valrico for 3 days, weather forecast for Valrico for the next 3 days, Florida, USA.

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Child care costs near me: This is how much child care costs in 2022

Опубликовано: May 30, 2021 в 11:12 am

Автор:

Категории: Child

This is how much child care costs in 2022

More than half — 59% — of parents say they’re more concerned about child care costs now than in years prior. That’s just one finding of many in the Care.com 2022 Cost of Care Survey that illustrate the uphill battle parents are facing when it comes to affording and accessing quality child care.

The world has changed immeasurably over the last two years due to the pandemic and economic struggles, and families have certainly felt the shift when it comes to the cost of child care. Making matters worse: Nearly 9,000 day cares closed in 37 states between December 2019 to March 2021, according to findings from a new 2022 survey by ChildCare Aware. 

“When it comes to child care, there are three critical criteria – cost, quality and availability – and based on our research findings, we’ve not only failed to make progress as a country, we’ve actually gone backwards,” said Natalie Mayslich, President, Consumer, Care.com. “Costs are growing while availability is shrinking and that’s having a profound impact on the workforce and consumer spending. We’ve all seen what happens when parents can’t work; making child care more affordable and accessible has to be a priority for all.”

New data from the ninth annual Care.com 2022 Cost of Care Survey reveals:

  • The cost of child care is higher for families in 2022. 51% of parents say they spend more than 20% of their household income on child care, and 72% of parents report spending 10% or more. This is up from 70%, according to Care.com data from pre-pandemic 2019, the most recent year that mirrors parents’ options today. 
  • Quality child care continues to be tough for parents to find. In fact, 43% of parents say it’s much harder to find child care over the past year.
  • Parents continue to struggle to pay for child care. In fact, 59% are more concerned about child care costs now than in years prior, which is driving significant changes, such as taking on a second job (31%), reducing hours at work (26%), changing jobs (25%), and leaving the workforce entirely (21%), to foot the bill. ​​

How much does child care cost?

The cost of child care is on the rise

Based on the 2022 Cost of Care Survey, child care is not in the affordable range for most families. Of parents surveyed, 72% say they are spending 10% or more of their household income on child care, with a majority (51%) spending more than 20% or more. Yet according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), child care is considered affordable when it costs families no more than 7% of their household income. 

According to survey data, 63% report that child care is more expensive over the past year. The reasons parents say prices are skyrocketing include:

  • Child care centers increased costs (46%).
  • Inflation (41%).
  • Child care centers taking fewer children (36%).

Interactive: Check out our Cost Calculator to figure out how much child care costs in your area.

The cost of child care can exceed that of a college education

The survey also finds that more than half of families (58%) plan to spend more than $10,000 on child care this year, which is more than the average annual cost of in-state college tuition ($9,349) per EducationData. org.

Every type of child care is pricier than it was pre-pandemic

Overall, the average child care cost for one child in 2021 was $694/week for a nanny (up from $565/week in 2019), $226/week for a child care or day care center (up from $182/week) and $221/week for a family care center (up from $177/week).

Below are the 2021 national averages of weekly child care costs for each type of care, compared to costs in 2019.

National average weekly child care rates

  2021 2019 2021 2019
  One child One child Two children Two children
Nanny* $694  $565  $715  $585
Child care center (toddler) $226  $215  $429**  $409**
Family care center* $221  $201  $420**  $382**
After-school sitter $261  $243  $269  $246

*Rates for infant children.
**Rates for two children calculated by adding the weekly rate for one child and the weekly rate for the second child with a national average sibling discount of 10%.

What’s the impact of rising child care costs on parents? 

More than half — 59% — of parents say they’re more concerned about child care costs now than in years prior. The good news is that the majority (68%) budget for child care costs and nearly two-thirds (65%) say they will stay within or under budget.

Parents are cutting back on essentials

In turn, parents are making sacrifices to afford care and cutting back on budgets for:

  • Vacations and travel (51%).
  • Leisure activities (51%).
  • Food, dining (45%).
  • Clothing (41%).
  • Extracurriculars (37%).

They’re also overhauling their work — and personal — lives

Many also plan to make the following work changes to adhere to rising care costs: 

  • 31% are considering taking on a second job.
  • 26% are reducing hours at work.
  • 25% are changing jobs.
  • 21% leaving the workforce entirely.

Survey respondents are also adjusting their family plans to stay on track financially. 35% say they’re less likely to have more children with 43% listing the rising cost of child care as a major reason why.

How accessible is quality child care?

Parents say it’s harder to find child care providers than it was last year

Almost half of parents surveyed — 43% —  say it’s much harder to find child care providers over the past year. According to our survey:

  • 40% are having trouble finding a nanny.
  • 39% are struggling to get care through a family care center.
  • 37% find it challenging to book a babysitter.
  • 36% are facing an uphill battle with finding a quality day care.

Child care providers are pricier to come by in some areas

Depending on where families live, the cost of hiring a nanny or paying for a day care can well exceed the national average. For example, in the District of Columbia, the cost of a nanny  ($855 a week) is 23% above the national average, and the cost of day care ($419 a week) is 85% above the national average. 

These are the priciest places to live if you’re hiring a nanny or sending kids to day care:

State Weekly Rate $ Above National Avg % Above National Avg
1. District of Columbia $855 $161 23%
2. Washington $840 $146 21%
3. Massachusetts $834 $140 20%
4. California $829 $135 19%
5. Colorado $763 $69 10%
6. Oregon $741 $47 7%
7. New York $736 $42 6%
8. Connecticut $734 $40 6%
9. New Jersey $715 $21 3%
10.  Vermont $706 $12 2%
State Weekly Rate $ Above National Avg % Above National Avg
1. District of Columbia $419 $193 85%
2. Massachusetts $324 $98 44%
3. Washington $304 $78 34%
4. California $286 $60 26%
5. Connecticut $258 $33 14%
6. New York $258 $32 14%
7. Arkansas $255 $29 13%
8. Maryland $254 $28 12%
9. Colorado $254 $28 12%
10.  Oregon $249 $23 10%

How can you save money on child care?

As the cost of child care continues to rise, consider these steps to make the expense more affordable.

Find the best care for your budget

Once you’re clear on what you can afford, you can steer toward the child care option that’s the best fit for your family. The first step: Research current rates in your area. Care.com has free interactive tools you can use to identify the average costs of full-time child care, nanny and babysitter rates and nanny taxes in your region. 

Discuss care benefits with your employer

Whether you’re hoping to find backup child or adult care or utilize paid family leave, it can pay to investigate whether or not your employer offers family care benefits. And if they don’t, ask for them.

It’s quite possible that they’ll be open to the idea now more than ever. Due to the pandemic, 57% of employers are prioritizing child care benefits more this year, and 63% said they plan to increase their company’s already existing child care benefits, according to Care.com’s 2021 Future of Benefits Report. 

Set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for care

Talk to your workplace Human Resources department to see if a Dependent Care Account (a type of flexible spending account, or FSA) is available to you and how you can get started. With this account, you can put aside up to $5,000 in pre-tax dollars in your Dependent Care Account to pay for dependent care expenses. (Generally, only one spouse can enroll.) 

The savings you will ultimately see varies depending on what your marginal tax rate is. A good approximation is around $2,000 in tax savings, assuming the family uses the full $5,000.

Make the most of tax breaks and credits

By paying your caregiver on the books, you can take advantage of tax breaks and credits. For example, by itemizing care-related expenses on your federal income return, you could receive a Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit on up to $600 of care-related expenses if you have one child, or $1,200 of care-related expenses if you have two or more children. 

This year’s Cost of Care survey concluded that just over 1/3 of parents (34%) did not claim the expanded child care tax credit on their 2021 taxes, and 43% say that’s because they were unaware of it. 

In addition, parents can save $2,000 per child using the Child Tax Credit.  

Research child care subsidies and programs

Depending on your income, employee benefits and other factors, your family might qualify for a variety of cost-cutting child care subsidies. We’ve rounded up various programs, resources and other options that could reduce how much you’re paying for quality care.

__________________________

2022 Cost of Care Survey methodology

This scientific sample of 3,003 US adults (18 years or older) who are all parents paying for professional child care was surveyed between March 24, 2022, and March 30, 2022. All respondents are parents of children 14 years or younger and currently pay for professional child care, confirmed by both consumer-matched data and self-confirmation. DKC Analytics conducted and analyzed this survey with a sample procured using the Pollfish survey delivery platform, which delivers online surveys globally through mobile apps and the mobile web along with the desktop web. No post-stratification has been applied to the results.

  • The Care.com Cost of Child Care Survey: 2021 Report
  • The Care.com Cost of Child Care and COVID-19 Child Care Surveys: 2020 Report
  • The Care.com Cost of Child Care Survey: 2019 Report
  • The Care.com Cost of Child Care Survey: 2018 Report 
  • The Care.com Cost of Child Care Survey: 2017 Report
  • The Care.com Cost of Child Care Survey: 2016 Report
  • The Care.com Cost of Child Care Survey: 2015 Report
  • The Care.com Cost of Child Care Survey: 2014 Report

Annual Cost of Child Care, by Age Group and Facility Type

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Years
20182016201420122009


Type of Facility

Child Care CenterFamily Child Care Home


Age Group

InfantPreschooler

















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 Definition, Source & Notes

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  • Definition: Estimated annual cost of full-time licensed child care, by age group and type of facility (e. g., in 2018, full-time licensed child care for an infant in a child care center cost $17,384 annually in California).

  • Data Source: California Child Care Resource and Referral Network, California Child Care Portfolio (Feb. 2020).
  • Footnote: These estimates are based on data from the California Dept. of Education’s Regional Market Rate Survey of California Child Care Providers. Infants are children ages 0-2; preschoolers are children ages 3-5. Full-time care is 30 hours or more per week. Child care centers are facilities that provide care for infants, preschoolers, and/or school-age children during all or part of the day. These facilities may be large or small and can be operated independently by nonprofit organizations or by churches, school districts, or other organizations. Most child care centers are licensed by the California Dept. of Social Services (CDSS). In family child care homes, care for up to 14 children is offered in the home of the provider, often a parent; care is typically provided for children of a variety of ages. Family child care homes also are licensed by CDSS.


Learn More About Early Care and Education

Measures of Early Care and Education on Kidsdata.org


On kidsdata.org, indicators of early childhood care and education include:

  • The percentage of children ages 0-5 whose parents read with them, by weekly frequency
  • Single-year estimates of the percentage of children ages 3-5 enrolled in preschool or kindergarten, by county and county group, and, for the U.S. and California, by age and by race/ethnicity; also available are five-year estimates for cities, school districts, and counties with 10,000+ residents and legislative districts

Kidsdata.org also provides the following measures of licensed child care in California:*

  • The annual cost of child care for infants and preschoolers in child care centers and family child care homes
  • The percentage of children in working families for whom child care spaces are available
  • The number of child care spaces in licensed facilities and the percentage of full-time and part-time spaces available
  • The number of licensed child care facilities and the percentage of facilities offering evening, weekend or overnight care
  • The percentage of child care requests by age group and the percentage of requests for evening, weekend or overnight care


*The California Child Care Resource and Referral Network tracks licensed facilities (child care centers and family child care homes) providing care for infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and/or school-age children during all or part of the day. Data are available only for licensed facilities. Many families use license-exempt care, such as child care provided by relatives or friends.




Early Care and Education

  • Young Children Whose Parents Read with Them, by Frequency
  • Children Ages 3-5 Enrolled in Preschool or Kindergarten
    • by Age (California & U.S. Only)
    • by Race/Ethnicity (California & U.S. Only)
  • Children Ages 3-5 Enrolled in Preschool or Kindergarten (Regions of 10,000 Residents or More)
    • by Legislative District
  • Annual Cost of Child Care, by Age Group and Facility Type
  • Availability of Child Care for Working Families
  • Child Care Spaces in Licensed Facilities, by Facility Type
    • by Facility’s Schedule
  • Licensed Child Care Facilities, by Type
  • Licensed Child Care Facilities Offering Evening, Weekend or Overnight Care, by Facility Type
  • Requests for Child Care, by Age Group
  • Requests for Evening, Weekend or Overnight Child Care



Family Income and Poverty

  • Median Family Income, by Family Type
    • by City, School District and County (Regions of 10,000 Residents or More)
    • by Legislative District
  • Children Living in Low-Income Working Families
    • by City, School District and County (Regions of 10,000 Residents or More)
    • by Legislative District
  • Poverty Thresholds – California Poverty Measure, by Family Composition and Housing Tenure
    • by Legislative District
  • Self-Sufficiency Standard, by Family Composition


Unemployment

  • Children without Secure Parental Employment
    • by City, School District and County (Regions of 10,000 Residents or More)
    • by Legislative District

Why This Topic Is Important


Experiences during early childhood lay the foundation for future health and well being, and the quality of children’s early care and education (ECE) can have significant, lasting effects (1, 2). High-quality ECE programs deliver consistent, developmentally sound, and emotionally supportive care and education (1, 3). This type of care before age 5 is associated with improved cognitive, social-emotional, behavioral, and physical health, as well as increased school readiness, academic achievement, and earnings in adulthood (1, 2). Positive outcomes are particularly pronounced for children from low-income families, children of color, and those at risk for academic problems (1, 3, 4). A critically important ECE need for many families is child care; reliable child care can help families move out of poverty and achieve financial stability by enabling parents to work or pursue education and job training (2, 3).

However, finding affordable, high-quality ECE is a major challenge for many families, especially in California, and access differs based on geography, race/ethnicity, and income (2, 3, 4). In 2018, California was ranked the least affordable state for center-based infant care in the nation (2). For example, costs for center-based infant care in California made up an estimated 18% of the median annual income for married couples and 56% for single parents in 2018 (2).

For more information, see kidsdata.org’s Research & Links section.

Sources for this narrative:

1.  National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2019). Vibrant and healthy kids: Aligning science, practice, and policy to advance health equity. National Academies Press. Retrieved from: https://www.nap.edu/catalog/25466/vibrant-and-healthy-kids-aligning-science-practice-and-policy-to

2.  Child Care Aware of America. (2019). The U.S. and the high price of child care: An examination of a broken system. Retrieved from: https://www.childcareaware.org/our-issues/research/the-us-and-the-high-price-of-child-care-2019

3.  California Assembly Blue Ribbon Commission on Early Childhood Education. (2019). California Assembly Blue Ribbon Commission on Early Childhood Education: Final report. Retrieved from: https://speaker.asmdc.org/sites/speaker.asmdc.org/files/pdf/BRC-Final-Report.pdf

4.  Friedman-Krauss, A., & Barnett, S. (2020). Access to high-quality early education and racial equity. National Institute for Early Education Research. Retrieved from: https://nieer.org/policy-issue/special-report-access-to-high-quality-early-education-and-racial-equity



How Children Are Faring


In 2018, an estimated 61% of California children ages 3-5 were enrolled in preschool or kindergarten, similar to percentages from previous years. An estimated 55% of Hispanic/Latino 3- to 5-year-olds were enrolled in pre-primary programs, compared with more than two-thirds of their African American/black, Asian American, white, and multiracial peers. Across counties with data in 2014-2018, the percentage of children in this age group enrolled in preschool or kindergarten ranged from less than 50% (Kern, Tulare) to more than 75% (Marin, San Francisco).

California’s 36,827 licensed child care centers and family child care homes provided 976,835 child care spaces in 2019. Overall, the number of licensed facilities and spaces have been on the decline since 2008. According to 2019 estimates, there was one licensed child care space available for every four California children ages 0-12 with working parents; in some counties, availability was as low as one in six.

The average annual cost of licensed infant care exceeded $17,000 in child care centers and approached $12,000 in family child care homes in 2018. Care for preschool-age children was less expensive, but still more than $12,000 in child care centers and nearly $11,000 in family child care homes.


Policy Implications


Early childhood is a critical period of biological, cognitive, and social-emotional development (1). The quality of children’s environments and experiences during these years has lasting effects (1). High-quality early care and education (ECE), in particular, can have positive and long-term impacts on children ranging from improved cognitive, emotional, and behavioral functioning to better health, educational attainment, and earnings later in life (1, 2). Without access to high-quality early learning opportunities, children can fall behind their peers, creating an academic achievement gap that has been shown to widen with age (1, 3). Leaders increasingly see investments in ECE as a way to reduce educational and health inequities by income and race/ethnicity (1, 4, 5). And research shows these investments pay off; for example, it is estimated that every $1 invested in high-quality preschool yields a return of up to $17 in social benefits (4). ECE also plays a critical role in family financial stability, as many parents need child care in order to work or go to school (4).

However, a significant number of families have difficulty accessing quality ECE, especially in California, due to a lack of program availability and affordability (3, 4). California was ranked the least affordable state for center-based infant care in the nation in 2018, and just 14% of the state’s eligible infants and toddlers have access to subsidized child care (2, 3). Although the state has made some progress, California’s ECE system remains underfunded and will need additional efforts and investments in order to build a comprehensive, high-quality system that is accessible and affordable to all, while ensuring a skilled and adequately compensated workforce (3, 4).

Policy and program options that could improve ECE include:

  • Increasing state funding for ECE, tying funding to program quality and prioritizing care for infants, toddlers, and children with the greatest needs; in particular, substantially expanding child care subsidies and spaces for income-eligible infants and toddlers (3, 4)
  • Creating adequate capacity for high-quality, universal preschool for all children ages 3-4, ensuring access for the most vulnerable children; also, ensuring that these programs meet established quality benchmarks, such as student-teacher ratios and professional standards (3, 4)
  • Reducing system fragmentation by working toward a streamlined, inclusive state ECE governance body to provide overall leadership, improve program coordination and accountability, and integrate data and funding streams (4)
  • Continuing to strengthen California’s ECE quality improvement and standards systems, and making sure that all publicly-funded programs participate in a continuous improvement process and have access to coaching or other program support (4)
  • Strengthening the state’s ECE workforce infrastructure to elevate the profession, provide clear pathways for career advancement, improve reimbursement rates to increase wages, and ensure that all providers receive coordinated, standardized, high-quality professional training and support (3, 4)
  • Ensuring that all California children receive a developmental screening and have access to quality early intervention services or other support services as needed; also, improving alignment and transitions between systems for infants and toddlers, preschoolers, and K-12 students, especially for students with special needs (3, 4)

For more information, see kidsdata. org’s Research & Links section or visit the California Child Care Resource and Referral Network. Also see Policy Implications under Family Economics and Education topics on kidsdata.org.

Sources for this narrative:

1.  National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. (2019). Vibrant and healthy kids: Aligning science, practice, and policy to advance health equity. National Academies Press. Retrieved from: https://www.nap.edu/catalog/25466/vibrant-and-healthy-kids-aligning-science-practice-and-policy-to

2.  Child Care Aware of America. (2019). The U.S. and the high price of child care: An examination of a broken system. Retrieved from: https://www.childcareaware.org/our-issues/research/the-us-and-the-high-price-of-child-care-2019

3.  Children Now. (2020). 2020 California children’s report card: A survey of kids’ well-being and a roadmap for the future. Retrieved from: https://www.childrennow.org/portfolio-posts/20-report-card

4.   California Assembly Blue Ribbon Commission on Early Childhood Education. (2019). California Assembly Blue Ribbon Commission on Early Childhood Education: Final report. Retrieved from: https://speaker.asmdc.org/sites/speaker.asmdc.org/files/pdf/BRC-Final-Report.pdf

5.  Friedman-Krauss, A., & Barnett, S. (2020). Access to high-quality early education and racial equity. National Institute for Early Education Research. Retrieved from: https://nieer.org/policy-issue/special-report-access-to-high-quality-early-education-and-racial-equity


Research & Links

Websites with Related Information


  • California Budget and Policy Center: Child Care and Preschool

  • California Child Care Resource and Referral Network

  • California Education GPS. Alliance for Continuous Improvement.

  • California School Boards Association: Governance and Policy Resources

  • Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP): Child Care and Early Education

  • Center for the Study of Child Care Employment. UC Berkeley Institute for Research on Labor and Employment.

  • Child Trends: Early Childhood

  • IssueLab: Children and Youth. Foundation Center.

  • MDRC: Child Care and Early Education

  • National Association for the Education of Young Children

  • National Center for Children in Poverty. Bank Street Graduate School of Education.

  • National Institute for Early Education Research. Rutgers Graduate School of Education.

  • Stanford Center for Education Policy Analysis

  • The Early Learning Lab

  • U. S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families: Office of Child Care

  • Zero to Three

Key Reports and Research


  • 2022 California Children’s Report Card. Children Now.

  • Access to High-Quality Early Education and Racial Equity. (2020). National Institute for Early Education Research. Friedman-Krauss, A., & Barnett, S.

  • An Update on the Portrait of Promise: Demographic Report on Health and Mental Health Equity in California. (2020). California Dept. of Public Health, Office of Health Equity.

  • Building an Early Learning System that Works: Next Steps for California. (2018). Learning Policy Institute. Melnick, H., et al.

  • California Assembly Blue Ribbon Commission on Early Childhood Education: Final Report. (2019).

  • Early Childhood Education in California. (2018). Getting Down to Facts II. Stipek, D.

  • Equity in Early Childhood Systems: A Community Action Brief. (2019). Center for the Study of Social Policy & National Collaborative for Infants and Toddlers.

  • Kids’ Share: Analyzing Federal Expenditures on Children. Urban Institute.

  • Mitigating the Effects of Trauma Among Young Children of Immigrants and Refugees: The Role of Early Childhood Programs. (2019). Migration Policy Institute. Park, M., & Katsiaficas, C.

  • Quality Early Education and Child Care from Birth to Kindergarten. (2017). Pediatrics. Donoghue, E. A., & American Academy of Pediatrics Council on Early Childhood.

  • School Readiness. (2019). Pediatrics Williams, P. G., et al.

  • Starting Early: Education from Prekindergarten to Third Grade. (2016). The Future of Children.

  • State Preschool Yearbook. National Institute for Early Education Research.

  • The High Cost of Child Care Underscores the Need for Supporting Families With Children of All Ages. (2019). California Budget and Policy Center. Schumacher, K.

  • Transforming the Financing of Early Care and Education. (2018). National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

  • Using Data to Support a Comprehensive System of Early Learning and Care in California. (2020). SRI International. Coffey, M., et al.

  • Vibrant and Healthy Kids: Aligning Science, Practice, and Policy to Advance Health Equity. (2019). National Academies Press. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

County/Regional Reports


  • 2020-21 California County Scorecard of Children’s Well-Being. Children Now.

  • Annual Report on the Conditions of Children in Orange County. Orange County Children’s Partnership.

  • Community Health Improvement Plan for Los Angeles County. Los Angeles County Dept. of Public Health.

  • Early Care and Education: A Vital Resource for Strengthening Families. Connecting the Dots: Snapshots of Child Well-Being in Los Angeles County. Children’s Data Network.

  • Key Indicators of Health by Service Planning Area. (2017). Los Angeles County Dept. of Public Health.

  • Live Well San Diego Report Card on Children, Families, and Community. San Diego Children’s Initiative.

  • Pathway to Progress: Indicators of Young Child Well-Being in Los Angeles County. First 5 LA.

  • Santa Monica Youth Wellbeing Report Card. Santa Monica Cradle to Career.

  • School Readiness in Alameda County. (2015). First 5 Alameda County & Interagency Children’s Policy Council. Applied Survey Research.

  • School Readiness in San Francisco, 2015-16. First 5 San Francisco & San Francisco Unified School District. Applied Survey Research.

More Data Sources For Early Care and Education


  • 2022 KIDS COUNT Data Book: State Trends in Child Well-Being. Annie E. Casey Foundation.

  • California Child Care Portfolio. California Child Care Resource and Referral Network.

  • California Health Interview Survey. UCLA Center for Health Policy Research.

  • National Center for Education Statistics: Data Tools. U.S. Dept. of Education, Institute of Education Sciences.

  • National Survey of Children’s Health. Child and Adolescent Health Measurement Initiative.

  • The U.S. and the High Price of Child Care: An Examination of a Broken System. (2019). Child Care Aware of America.



  • State Assembly Districts
  • State Senate Districts
  • U.S. Congressional Districts


Note: These data represent the most recent legislative district boundaries.


© 2022 Population Reference Bureau. (800) 877-9881

Child Care Costs – CCR&R

Child Care Costs

Child care costs are a major expense for most families. Surprisingly, although costs are high, many times child care providers are not earning much more than minimum wage. Reasons why child care can be so expensive include the following:

  • Low  ratios of children to adults in programs for infants and toddlers
  • Qualifications of the provider or teachers
  • Geographic location
  • Insurance costs  
  • Age and developmentally appropriate equipment and supplies
  • Healthy and nutritious food
  • Type of child care (Center or Home)
  • Operational expenses such as, employee, rent, utilities, etc.


Generally speaking, hiring an in-home caregiver (nanny) tends to be the most expensive form of care, followed by child care centers and family child care homes. Cost of school age programs and camps varies according to the type of program. You may want to plan for additional fees such as registration, activity, transportation, meals, or even a late payment or late pick-up fee. If you receive financial assistance you may have to pay a co-pay in addition the any fees a program may charge above the weekly or monthly tuition.  

 

DES Child Care Market Rate Survey
Listed below are the average (median) weekly full time costs of child care. Rates are based on the 2018 DES Market Rate Survey. These are averages only. The cost of child care varies from county to county and within individual communities. Each provider sets their own rates.

DES District 1 Maricopa County

Ages

Child Care Centers

Approved Homes*

Certified Group Homes

Unregulated Homes

Under 1 year

$225. 00

$100.00

$150.00

$150.00

1 & 2 years

$200.00

$100.00

$140.00

$150.00

3, 4 & 5 years

$170.00

$100.00

$140.00

$122.50

School Age

$150.00

$96. 45

$125.00

$108.55

DES District 2 Pima County

Ages

Child Care Centers

Approved Homes*

Certified Group Homes

Unregulated Homes

Under 1 year

$216.50

$125.00

$150.00

$125. 00

1 & 2 years

$191.25

$125.00

$140.00

$125.00

3, 4 & 5 years

$167.35

$125.00

$140.00

$125.00

School Age

$125.00

$114.30

$135.00

$125. 00

DES District 3 Apache, Coconino, Navajo & Yavapai Counties

Ages

Child Care Centers

Approved Homes*

Certified Group Homes

Unregulated Homes

Under 1 year

$180.00

$125.00

$142.50

$127.50

1 & 2 years

$167. 35

$125.00

$132.50

$125.00

3, 4 & 5 years

$151.80

$125.00

$127.50

$125.00

School Age

$140.00

$125.00

$125.00

$125.00

DES District 4 La Paz, Mohave & Yuma Counties

Ages

Child Care Centers

Approved Homes*

Certified Group Homes

Unregulated Homes

Under 1 year

$150. 00

$100.00

$140.00

$125.00

1 & 2 years

$140.00

$100.00

$131.80

$125.00

3, 4 & 5 years

$125.00

$75.00

$130.00

$125.00

School Age

$122.50

$75.00

$131. 80

$125.00

DES District 5 Gila & Pinal Counties

Ages

Child Care Centers

Approved Homes*

Certified Group Homes

Unregulated Homes

Under 1 year

$175.00

$135.00

$160.00

$150.00

1 & 2 years

$160. 00

$135.00

$150.00

$150.00

3, 4 & 5 years

$142.50

$120.00

$150.00

$127.50

School Age

$125.00

$100.00

$150.00

$127.50

DES District 6 Cochise, Graham, Greenlee & Santa Cruz Counties

Ages

Child Care Centers

Approved Homes*

Certified Group Homes

Unregulated Homes

Under 1 year

$177. 50

$100.00

$150.00

$125.00

1 & 2 years

$137.75

$100.00

$120.00

$125.00

3, 4 & 5 years

$125.00

$100.00

$115.00

$125.00

School Age

$125.00

$100.00

$115. 00

$125.00

* Approved homes include all DES Certified Family Child Care Homes 
N/A = Not Applicable due to type of care not available. 

For Some D.C. Parents, It’s Too Expensive To Work : NPR

Eliza Berkon

From

D.C. has the highest cost of infant childcare in the nation, making it difficult for some parents to justify returning to work.

Yunyi Dai/For WAMU


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Yunyi Dai/For WAMU

Alex, a consultant and former Marine living in Alexandria, learned she was pregnant with her first child last year. She and her husband had been planning to start a family for some time, making spreadsheets of all the expenses that might come with caring for an infant. But their plans were scuttled at an early doctor’s visit.

“It hit the fan the minute he was like, ‘Oh, there’s two heartbeats,'” says Alex, who asked that WAMU use only her first name as she considers whether to return to her current employer.

Not only was their first family addition now two, the twins were sharing the same amniotic sac — a risky complication to the pregnancy. Alex required regular monitoring. She spent five weeks on bed rest before delivering her daughters at 32 weeks in September. The twins spent their first couple months in the neonatal intensive care unit.

Alex’s military-provided healthcare covered her medical expenses, and her employer paid for several months of leave. But her workplace will not pay for child care once Alex returns to work in a few weeks — expenses that could total as much as $4,000 per month, unrelated to any medical issues.

“My net income would be so minimal that it doesn’t make a lot of sense to even work anymore,” she says.

Alex isn’t alone. As D.C.-area parents contend with some of the highest child care costs in the country — annual fees in the District average about $24,000 for infant care and $19,000 for toddler care — some are deciding to opt out of the workforce, forgoing a salary and avoiding high child care costs.

The Cost Of Child Care

Families in the region have several options when it comes to child care, but none come cheap. Lower-cost options include home-based centers (about $17,000 annually) and nanny shares ($20-$25 an hour, divided among participating families). On the higher end are au pairs (about $20,000 per year) and child care centers ($24,243 annually in D.C., $19,632 in Montgomery County and $24,390 in Arlington County). The cost is enough to make some couples rethink having children.

Kimberly Perry, executive director of DC Action for Children, says the cost of care has risen sharply in recent years, due in part to the increasingly recognized need for quality early education.

“This is a relatively newer industry — as more women started to enter the workforce over the last 50 years, the work of caring for young children has essentially moved from the unpaid stay-at-home parents to salaried labor,” Perry says. “This period of birth to age 3 is really critical for social, emotional and cognitive development. So the need for credentialed, trained and degreed professionals is really critical.”

The cost of childcare in the District exceeds in-state tuition at a four-year public college.

Screenshot/Courtesy of Economic Policy Institute


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Screenshot/Courtesy of Economic Policy Institute

Other reasons for high costs include the materials and facilities needed to care for kids, and even parking.

In a recent Atlantic article, staff writer Derek Thompson points to three reasons for the high cost of child care in the United States: salaries, regulation and rent. Spending on child care, he says, increased more than 40% between 1990 and 2011, while middle-class wages remained roughly the same.

To learn more about the cost of daycare in the region, check out this episode of WAMU’s podcast, What’s With Washington.

“Pick whatever source and statistic you like, because they all point to the same conclusion: Child care in America has become ludicrously expensive,” Thompson writes.

And despite the high costs to parents, many workers at D.C. centers are not well-compensated, reflective of a larger trend nationwide.

Leaving Work To Afford Children

For Alex, her husband and their infant twins, none of the available child care options are ideal: The daycare in their neighborhood charges $1998 a month per child. An au pair would cost more than $2,000 per month and necessitate overhauling the first floor of their home and adjusting to an additional resident.

And while they could place their twins in a center at a nearby military base where rates are closer to $700 per month per child, that would require Alex’s husband to stay in the military for longer than he had intended — plus it would expose the twins to other children during RSV season, which Alex says could be life-threatening to her prematurely born infants.

For now, Alex plans to pay for a nanny share two days a week and have her mom — who lives nearby and works full-time — watch the children three days a week. Alex has to return to work for a short period or be required to pay back some of the medical and leave-related expenses her employer has paid, she says. But after that, she may decide to leave.

“I’m going to have to see what happens when I’m back at work,” Alex says. “If it’s not manageable, and [if] now we’re looking at this and it’s just not looking like it’s fiscally sound any longer, then I’m going to have to re-evaluate my career. My husband’s going to have to re-evaluate his career.”

The Toll Of Taking Time Away

In any family where the cost of child care equals or exceeds one earner’s net wages, parents need to crunch the numbers to determine the viability of both partners working.

Mary Ann Bronson, an assistant professor in economics at Georgetown University, describes the conversation this way: “‘If I have a primary earner that brings home a certain income, and I’m a secondary earner, and now we have to pay for child care if I’m going to work as well, does it make sense financially for our household to do that?'”

“That calculus is actually even worse when you look at very low-income households,” Bronson adds.

And it’s not just an immediate change in income that parents experience. For heterosexual couples, mothers tend to take a career hit when care is hard to find. A study on child care and the workforce found that 95% of fathers in couples who could not find care continued to work, compared to 77% of mothers.

The disparities between mothers and fathers continue when both are working. In a Pew Research study, half of working mothers said being a working parent is an obstacle to their career advancement, while only 39% of working fathers said the same. A 2018 study found that women who take longer maternity leaves can sometimes be seen as less dedicated to their work, eroding “perceptions of women’s agency, job commitment and perceived suitability for leadership roles.”

Bronson says taking one or two years out of the workforce can mean a 10 to 20% wage cut when parents return, and a lengthier break (as some decide to stay at home with their children until one or all are in grade school) may further lower wages. Parents taking extended leaves may also not be up-to-date on their field or eligible for the promotions they might otherwise have received in that time, Bronson says.

So while staying at work could mean taking a short-term financial loss on child care, Bronson says it could also be a wise investment in a parent’s long-term career.

“If you’re in a career where promotion rates are high [and] wage trajectories are steep, staying in is going to have a long-term payoff,” Bronson says.

Dustin Fisher, a stay-at-home dad in New Carrollton, decided to leave his job in collegiate recreation seven years ago, after the birth of his daughter. He says the decision made financial sense, given his wife’s career. He also didn’t want to leave his then-infant daughter with a stranger.

Dustin Fisher has been a stay-at-home father for seven years. With his children now in elementary school, he is deciding on his next steps.

Eliza Berkon/WAMU


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Eliza Berkon/WAMU

“Why bother leaving her so I could go to a different job? To me, that says I don’t want to be there with my kids,” Fisher says.

While navigating parenthood with one and then two children at home, Fisher started a blog (Daddy Needs a Nap, now Quote of the Dad) and wrote a memoir-ish book called Daddy Issues. But with both of his children, ages 5 and 7, now in elementary school, he’s contemplating his next move.

“I’ve been out of the workforce so long, there’s just such a huge hole in my resume that I haven’t really tested with employers,” Fisher says. “I’m just dabbling in things that I know that I would like to do.”

Finding Affordable Solutions

D.C., Maryland and Virginia all offer child care subsidies to families with qualifying incomes. Some counties offer additional programs, including Montgomery County, where the Working Parents Assistance Program provides supplementary subsidies to eligible residents. Arlington County, which established a child care task force in 2017, is also working with the Arlington Community Foundation to provide scholarships to low-income families.

In 2018, the District passed the Birth to 3 For All DC act, whose components include raising teacher pay, providing pediatric support and broadening eligibility for child care subsidies.

Perry, whose organization has pushed for funding for the Birth to 3 act, says local parents are thankful to have a solution for the “really complex challenge” of child care in the District. “Parents want relief as soon as possible,” she says.

Since 2009, D.C. has also offered free preschool to 3 and 4-year-olds, which had a positive impact on mothers in the local workforce. In the first decade of the program, the number of mothers in the workforce increased by 12%, “with 10 percentage points attributable to preschool expansion.”

The financial burdens of child care are on the national stage this year as Democratic presidential candidates debate which proposals, including universal child care and tax credits for child care, are most viable.

But for the time being, families who are struggling to afford it are left with only the available options, many of which are not affordable. It can be a shock to couples that have been careful with their money up until parenthood. Both Alex and her husband made sure their bachelor’s and master’s degrees were paid for and that they were debt-free before starting a family.

“Up until this point, we’d been doing the standard American Dream-type thing where you go to school, you get a good job, you buy a house and then you have kids,” she says.

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