Our most read blog posts of 2020
It’s been a trying year for families. COVID-19 has led to high unemployment, closures of child care facilities, working/learning at home and a host of new challenges. Southwest Human Development has worked to support Arizona families this year, including by sharing advice and guidance from our early childhood experts.
Here are our top 5 most-viewed blog posts of 2020:
Celebrate tradition and cultural awareness with young children
Cultural awareness and tradition play important roles in helping young children develop a positive sense of identity and build self-esteem. Studies show that cultural appreciation and awareness contribute to building a positive self image. Developing a strong foundation of belonging and acceptance through cultural celebration and education helps children to create… [Read more]
At-home lesson plans for parents and caregivers to use with their young children
Our early childhood education experts on our Head Start and Early Head Start teams have put together lesson plans for young children who are at home due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. These lesson plans include fun and developmentally-appropriate activities for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. We’ve put together sample schedules with a wide variety of activities that will help your child develop and allow families to have quality time together. [Read more]
Tips for keeping your child’s toys clean and sanitized
Young children aren’t usually concerned about where their toys have been. Whether their teething ring is on the floor, their rattler is in the dog’s mouth or their dinosaur is in the dirt outside, babies and toddlers won’t think twice before handling or biting down on their favorite toys when they’re ready to play. Here are some of our tips on how to best keep your child’s toys clean and sanitized: [Read more]
How to teach your child to protect the environment this Earth Day
When children learn to appreciate the world from a young age, they are more likely to help protect our land for future generations to come. Generating a passion for the protecting planet early on makes a big difference in influencing children’s future environmentally friendly habits. Parents can take a number of steps to help their children to learn about the world and caring for our environment. [Read more]
The impact of social distancing on young children
Socializing with peers is an important part of a young child’s development. In addition to the friendships they build, toddlers and young children develop communication skills, emotional self-awareness, empathy and conflict management through their interactions with others their age. [Read more]