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School is in session for the big kids around here but we’re also back to preschool with our littles! Since we now have three kids under the age of 2, our home has become EXTRA busy. Yep, we recently got placement of our foster son’s baby sister! So now our kids range in ages from 19 (graduated from homeschool and college last year, now working full time as a teacher at a local private school), 17 (dually enrolled in homeschool and PSEO/college this year), 14, 12, 10, 2 1/2, 1 1/2, and newborn! And today, I’ve partnered with some of my favorite brands to share some of our back to preschool favorites.
Back To Preschool – Homeschooling
When someone asks me about our homeschooling programs, curriculums, and techniques; I like to share these homeschooling tips. Along with that, I also LOVE to bust common homeschool myths. As we begin to chat more, I often get asked about how to homeschool the preschooler age group. Honestly, I think it’s pretty easy. We stick to the following.
Reading:
We read TONS of books — literally 1-3 hours of day someone is reading to the toddlers. And it’s so cool to watch them walk around the house saying ‘book’ instead of phone, tablet, tv, etc. As a matter of fact, they never ask for screen time because we keep it so limited for that age group!
Most evenings, I’ll find the toddlers hanging out on the couch, snuggled up with their Little Unicorn Muslin Blankets and a stack of books. These blankets are made from multi-layered 100% cotton muslin, and are just as durable as they are soft! Multi-use, breathable, and featuring hand-painted prints; these blankets are seriously a must have for kids of all ages. They are the best for snuggling, bedtime, or even car rides.
- Buy Little Unicorn Blankets: Amazon.com
Hands On Play:
As I mentioned above, ditch the screens. I like to grab out the play dough, create sensory bins, and build with blocks. Hands on play is so beneficial for all areas of growth. I try to ensure we have lots of hands on play during our days.
Get Outside:
If the weather is nice, it’s a requirement to spend time outdoors. Whether it’s hanging out in the sandbox, using large muscle skills on the playground, going on a nature walk, or doing a scavenger hunt; there is no downside to getting fresh air.
Our favorite shoes for outdoor play are Stonz Cruisers. These shoes are AMAZING! Made from breathable materials, they also feature a nice wide opening so my toddlers can get them on and off by themselves!
The lightweight and flexible sole bends at the 1/3 front of the foot to help with balance and foot movement, while the reinforced heel keeps your little one stable (so less boo-boos from falling.) These fit skinny and wide feet alike (TRULY!) and allow kids to conquer new playground heights. Once you try the Cruisers, you’ll never go back.
- Buy Stonz Cruisers: Amazon.com
Helping Me In The Kitchen:
I know this one isn’t always popular… and I’m not always a great sport myself (especially when I’m in a hurry). But watching my toddlers climb up on their learning tower and safely helping me measure, dump, mix, and create is pretty cool. (Wish I would have had one for all my kids!) They are always SO proud of themselves and gain so many new abilities!
Playing Games:
Finally, one last thing I use often during our preschool years is game play. There are some great cooperative games for young kids available on Amazon. We practice colors, counting, sharing, and the skill of teamwork while playing games and having fun. And if you don’t feel like spending money on games today, family hide and seek is never dull! Just set aside time to play any type of game you want as they are perfect for learning skills of all kinds.
Adequate Sleep:
As my kids near age 3, their afternoon naps start to dissipate. This can leave behind a very cranky kiddo. So making sure they still get adequate sleep is super important. These bedtime tips can help. But lately, we just try to stick to a routine. Bath, comfy Kyte Baby pajamas, more stories, family Bible time, a few minutes (or more) in the rocking chair, and then snuggle up with their Little Unicorn blankets in bed.
Kyte Baby pajamas are seriously amazing. They are made from a super soft, all-natural bamboo rayon everyone loves. Plus, these oh-so-adorable toddler pajamas include a long-sleeved top and matching pants, making them perfect for story-time cuddles as summer fades and the cooler fall weather enters!
- Buy Kyte Baby Pajamas: Amazon.com
Tell me, how old are your kids and how has the transition back to school gone for your family this year?