A Gift for Families with Young Children

For the past few months, I have had a growing concern for families with young children in their home for long periods of time. I have watched as parents and caregivers have been spending more and more time sitting in front of screens and directing their child’s actions. Having been a working mother of two for most of my professional life, I feel for the difficulties that parents and caregivers are encountering and the stress they are feeling to do the right thing. All this is complicated by the pandemic and the changes this virus has caused to our home life and families.

How could I help, as an early childhood educator? After much brainstorming, I have decided to provide a free gift to families of young children. I have just completed the series of Home Spaces for Learning that families can provide for their young children in their home. The focus is on providing a place where their child or children can play and learn independently. These home spaces will allow the caregiver to do other essential tasks while their children are engaged in joyful learning.