Childcare

Early childhood educator observing children engaged in individualized learning activities showcasing different strengths and interests

How Intentional Teaching Builds On Your Child’s Unique Strengths: A Director’s Guide to Personalised Early Learning

When Unique Children Get Lost in One-Size-Fits-All Systems Last month, a parent approached me about their four-year-old daughter, Maya, who was described by her previous centre as “difficult” and “disruptive.” Within her first week at our centre, we discovered that Maya wasn’t being difficult – she was a natural leader with an intense curiosity about […]

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Children exploring creative materials in a warm, modern early learning environment at True Maple Bilingual Early Learning Centre

How to Foster Your Child’s Creative Potential: A Director’s Guide to Supporting Creativity in Early Childhood

The Problem: Why Traditional Approaches Stifle Creative Development In my 15 years of leading early childhood centres, I’ve watched too many bright, curious children lose their creative spark as they progress through rigid, standardised programs. A question I often get from parents is: “Why does my child seem less imaginative now than when they first

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Parent and preschool child cooking together in warm family kitchen, engaged in natural conversation while preparing a meal

5 Nourishing Ways to Build Your Child’s Conversation Skills (From Our Kitchen to Yours)

As a chef who has nourished hundreds of children over my years in early learning kitchens, I’ve witnessed something magical: the most beautiful conversations often happen over a shared meal. Yet I hear the same concerns from families settling into new areas every day – parents worried their 3-5 year olds struggle with basic conversation

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Toddlers participating in music and movement circle time at True Maple Early Learning Centre

5 Ways Music and Movement Transform Your Child’s Day (From Someone Who Sees It All)

Picture this: it’s 3:30pm, I’ve got twelve energetic toddlers who’ve just woken up from rest time, and the room feels like a ticking time bomb. Then I start our “Wake Up and Wiggle” song, and within thirty seconds, I’ve got cooperative children ready for afternoon activities instead of chaos. Trust me, after five years in

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Child development specialist James Mitchell supporting diverse young children through transition activities in a warm early learning environment

Expert Interview: A Child Development Specialist’s Guide to Helping Children Cope with Major Life Changes

Major life changes can feel overwhelming for parents, especially when you’re watching your little one navigate unfamiliar territory. Whether it’s starting childcare, welcoming a sibling, or moving homes, these transitions often leave parents wondering how to best support their child through the uncertainty. The good news? With the right understanding and approach, you can help

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Child engaged in imaginative play with toys in early learning centre classroom

How Imaginative Play Helps Your Child Navigate Big Emotions: A Director’s Guide to Emotional Development

After 15 years of watching children transform through play, I’ve seen how the right approach to imaginative play in early childhood can turn a struggling child into a confident, emotionally intelligent learner—but only when we honour their individual emotional journey rather than forcing compliance. The Problem: When Big Emotions Overwhelm Little Hearts I see it

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