Raising Compassionate Children

compassionate child

As a parent, there are so many things we want our children to learn. One of the most important of those lessons is how to be compassionate human beings.

We all know of parents who bring their children to volunteer at the local soup kitchen to expose them to the less fortunate. While this is admirable, it also isn’t always feasible with work, school and sport schedules. Thankfully, teaching your child compassion can take place during the course of a normal day.

What follows are some simple but effective ways you can help your child be more compassionate– at home, at daycare, at school and on the field.

  1. Be a good role model. First and foremost, it is important to understand that your child is always watching you. Therefore, if you want to raise kind and compassionate children, you need to model those behaviors. Speak to others respectfully and apologize if you have been short-tempered.
  2. Provide structure. When children know what behavior is expected of them, they feel more secure. Have a zero tolerance policy for things like hitting other children or name calling. Habits form character and children need to understand from an early age that certain behaviors are unacceptable because they can hurt themselves or others.
  3. Reward compassion. If you see your child helping a friend or picking up his or her toys without being told, tell them that you are proud of them. This teaches your child that this type of behavior is something to be valued.
  4. Teach good manners. Saying please and thank you, writing thank you notes and holding the door for others are all traits that allow children to understand the importance of valuing the feelings of others. It also allows them to understand the power of a small gesture.
  5. Give them the opportunity to make a difference. While it may be unrealistic for you to bring your child to a soup kitchen every week, that doesn’t mean that they can’t help make the world a better place. If you have an elderly neighbor, have your child make them a card on holidays or bring in their trash cans on trash day.

While raising a child who is excels in the classroom or on the field is certainly an accomplishment, nothing compares to the satisfaction that comes from raising a genuinely compassionate human being. Thankfully, that is something you can work on every single day, no matter where your day takes you.

Premier Academy offers affordable childcare in the Omaha/Elkhorn area. To learn more, visit us at premieracademyinc.com.

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Teaching Children the Importance of Being Kind

Raising a child who is kind and compassionate is one of the most important things that you can do as a parent. Children who are kind treat others with care and respect – but that’s not all. Teaching children the importance of being kind can enhance positivity, help children feel better about themselves and be more successful later in life.

Stop Trying to Raise Successful Kids and Start Raising Kind Ones

https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2019/12/stop-trying-to-raise-successful-kids/600751/

The real test of parenting is not what your children achieve, but who they become and how they treat others. If you teach them to be kind, you’re not only setting your kids up for success. You’re setting up the kids around them, too.

13 Ways to Raise a Caring and Compassionate Child

https://www.scholastic.com/parents/family-life/social-emotional-learning/social-skills-for-kids/13-ways-to-raise-caring-and-compassionate-child.html

Like many things, kindness is a quality that children learn over time and through practice. Thankfully, there are many things you can do to encourage your child to be a kinder, gentler person.

Are You Raising Nice Kids? A Harvard Psychologist Gives 5 Ways to Raise Them to be Kind

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/parenting/wp/2014/07/18/are-you-raising-nice-kids-a-harvard-psychologist-gives-5-ways-to-raise-them-to-be-kind/

Children are not born simply good or bad. They need adults who will help them become caring, respectful, and responsible for their communities at every stage of their childhood.

Premier Academy offers affordable childcare in the Omaha/Elkhorn area. To learn more about how we are teaching children the importance of being kind, visit us at premieracademyinc.com.

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Children are Born Compassionate – Make Sure They Remain That Way

Research indicates that most children are born compassionate.  In order to ensure that they remain that way it’s important that parents serve as good role models.

An article on fatherly.com, Compassionate Children Come from Parents Who Do These 8 Things, explains how parents can foster compassion in their children. These include engaging in the following behaviors:

  1. Explaining their actions
  2. Expressing gratitude
  3. Avoid scolding their children in public
  4. Showing empathy
  5. Reading with their children

Parents also need to understand that it is important to be consistent and that it will take a long time for these types of lessons to stick. In other words, slow and steady wins the raise when it comes to raising children who genuinely care about others.

Premier Academy offers affordable childcare in the Omaha/Elkhorn area. To learn more, visit us at premieracademyinc.com.

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Why Family Bonding Needs to Extend Beyond the Holiday Season

The holidays are winding down. While most families spent the past few months making special memories and participating in fun and festive activities together, prioritizing family bonding activities isn’t something that ends when the holidays are over.

family bonding by taking a walk in the park together

An article on sheknows.com, Family Time Isn’t Just for Fun – It Also Has Some Serious Benefits, talks about the fact that hanging out together as a family should be a priority, no matter what the season. Specifically, the article talks about the following five ways family-time benefits every member of the family.

  1. It builds self-esteem in children
  2. It strengthens family bonds
  3. It develops positive behaviors
  4. It creates happy memories
  5. It helps parents and children reconnect

No matter how old your children, spending time together is something they crave (even if they don’t like to admit it). That’s why it is so important to keep the warm feelings that come with family bonding alive throughout the New Year!

Premier Academy offers affordable childcare in the Omaha/Elkhorn area. To learn more, visit us at premieracademyinc.com.

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Family-Friendly Holiday Activities In Omaha That Are Sure to Keep Spirits Bright

With the holidays in full swing, many families are looking for festive activities to keep their kids entertained. And since it is the most wonderful time of the year, there is no shortage of family-friendly holiday activities in Omaha.

Here are just a few of the holiday events you can enjoy with children of all ages.* The best part is that many of them are free, so you won’t break the bank, either!

  1. Omaha Gingerbread Festival: Enjoy spectacularly decorated gingerbread displays, holiday performances and more. Ramada Inn, 3321 S. 72nd Free and open until Dec. 15.
  2. Capitol District Ice Rink. Skate while supporting a good cause. A portion of each admission charge is donated to Food Bank for the Heartland. Open until Jan. 21.
  3. A Christmas Carol: The classic story performed at the Omaha Community Playhouse, 6915 Cass Street. Ticket prices vary. Runs until Dec. 23.
  4. Holiday Lights Festival: Construction at the Gene Leahy Mall means that lights now illuminate the Old Market from 10th-13th Streets and from Harney to Jackson. The display also includes 24th Street in North and South Omaha. Free and runs until Jan. 5.
  5. Holiday Poinsettia Show: See thousands of poinsettias with trains, Omaha landmarks and even a 20-foot-tall poinsettia tree. There is even Holiday Poinsettia Show Aglow on special nights. Laurtizen Gardens, 100 Bancroft Street. Open to the public. Free to members, non-members pay regular admission. Runs until Jan. 5.
  6. Santa’s Magic at the Omaha Children’s Museum: An interactive show that includes indoor snow, visits with Santa and more. Located at 500 S. 20th Included with regular museum admission. Runs until Dec. 23.
  7. Christmas at Union Station: View the huge Christmas tree and a variety of other activities. The Durham Museum is located at 801 S. 10th Regular museum admission required. Runs until Jan. 5.
  8. Carriage Ride at Village Pointe: Enjoy horse and carriage rides on Saturdays from 1 to 5 p.m. weather permitting. 17305 Davenport St. Free and runs through Dec. 21.
  9. Season of Lights at Midtown Crossing: Stroll among 10,000 magical white lights strung throughout Turner Park along Farnam Street. Lights turn on daily at dusk through Feb. 14. Free and open to the public.
  10. Omaha Public Library: Kid-friendly holiday events at public libraries throughout the city. Runs through Dec. 31. Free but some events require registration.

This is just a short list of the many happenings in the area this holiday season. From ice skating to story times with Santa, there is more than enough family-friendly holiday activities in Omaha to keep your family in the holiday spirit.

*It is a good idea to call ahead before attending any event to confirm details.

From all of us at Premier Academy, we want to wish you and your little ones a happy holiday! If you are looking for a childcare provider in the new year, please visit us at premieracademyinc.com and schedule a tour!

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Premier Academy’s Top 5 Most Read Articles of 2019

We’ve rounded up the top 5 most read articles from the past year and have brought them together in one place just for you!

#1 7 Play Based Learning Activities to Do With Your Child

Here’s some great things to do with your little ones during the Holidays.

“We here at Premier Academy are big believers in play based learning. We understand that one of the wonderful things about being a parent is that you are your child’s first teacher.  You have the unique opportunity to open the door to the world; introducing your child to words, colors, animals and so much more.  Learning can be weaved into the day naturally as you read, talk, sing, and play together. Mr. Rogers said it best, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood. . .”

Read the full article here.

#2 Importance of School Readiness

Here are some pointers on getting your child ready for school.

“We here at Premier Academy know the importance of school readiness. The first five years are critical to a child’s lifelong development. Early experiences influence brain development, establishing the neural connections that provide the foundation for language, reasoning, problem solving, social skills, behavior, and emotional intelligence – characteristics that often determine how well a child will do in school and in life. . .”

Read the entire article Here

#3 Tips for a Smooth Morning Routine for Daycare

Mornings can be hectic, this article can help alleviate the stress.

“Why do mornings seem so difficult? For parents, especially working parents that use child care in Omaha Nebraska, there is typically so much to do in a short period of time. We here at Premier Academy agree. . .”

Read the entire article Here.

#4 Choosing Between a Montessori or Play-Based Preschool

Finding the best environment for your child to learn and grow can be tricky, this article explains the differences between Montessori style Learning and Play-Based Learning.

“We here at Premier Academy know that choosing the right type of preschool for your child can be an overwhelming decision. Many parents wonder whether a preschool that uses the Montessori method is the right choice for their child of if a play-based approach is best. . .”

Read the entire article Here.

#5 Fostering Social and Emotional Development in Preschoolers

Preschool is an amazing time for children, it’s also a time for big changes.

“We here at Premiere Academy are big believers in fostering social and emotional development in preschoolers. Social-emotional development affects every aspect of a child’s life, including personal relationships, academic growth, and self-esteem. When children feel good about themselves and have the skills to interact successfully with others, their capacity to achieve skyrockets. . .”

Read entire article Here.

We hoped you enjoyed this look back on 2019’s Top 5 most read articles.
Have a Happy Holidays!
At Premier Academy, the safety of your children comes first. We offer affordable childcare in the Omaha & Elkhorn area, visit us at premieracademyinc.com. 
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How To Deal With Picky Eaters When They Won’t Eat

Dealing with picky eaters is one of the most common struggles parents and teachers at your childcare center have. Does this sound familiar to you? Here are a few tips on how to deal with picky eaters.

Is your child a picky eater?

  • Your toddler takes a few bites of food and says she’s “done”
  • You can stock your fridge and shelves full but your little one will only eat the same 5 things over and over.
  • Your toddler asks for one thing, you make it, then he asks for something else then decides he wants something completely different altogether.
  • Coaxing your children to just take “one more bite” is a constant battle in your home.

Why Won’t They Eat?

First of all – meal times are supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable. You want to avoid these battles every time you sit down at the table. Toddlers ages 1-3 typically have smaller appetites, so if they only eat a little at a time, that’s ok. Their appetites can change on a daily basis and even meal to meal.

If they like carrots, don’t be afraid to throw some in at breakfast. Do they prefer eggs? Who says you can’t have eggs for dinner? At Premier Academy it is our goal to provide quality childcare and lots of healthy and delicious food options.

Dinner time is typically going to be the meal that your toddler feels like eating the least. It’s the end of the day and they are tired. Unless they have been doing physical activity like swimming or playing outside, chances are they aren’t going to be as hungry as they are at other times of the day.

How Do I Get My Picky Kid To Eat?

If you are dealing with preschool or school age children who are picky eaters, you may be able to reason with them and enforce the “one bite rule” Ask them to take at least one bite of every food on their plate. If they don’t like it, they don’t have to eat it again. The best childcare for your kiddo is one that provides a variety of healthy food options.

Here are a few more ideas for dealing with picky eaters:

  • Don’t nag or coax your toddler. Choose your battles. Plain and simply, your child WILL eat when they are hungry.
  • Have realistic portions: Many parents set unrealistic goals for their children when it comes to mealtime. A good rule of thumb to follow: If your child is under the age of 5-6, use a tablespoon per year of age. If they ask for more when they’ve finished, you can always give more.
  • Try to introduce new foods – Even if they disliked a food before, tastes change and you never know when you find something new they like.
  • Avoid too much milk, juice and soda in place of food. Many kids will fill up on sugary drinks and have no room for food.

Mealtime doesn’t have to be miserable any longer! Choose your battles. Don’t get upset with them when they doesn’t like a food. Try to help your child find healthy foods they enjoy.

At Premier Academy, the safety of your children comes first. We offer affordable childcare in the Omaha & Elkhorn area, visit us at premieracademyinc.com. 

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Tips On Preparing Your Home For A New Baby From Premier Academy

Bringing home a new baby is an exciting event for any family. Preparing your home for a new baby is the first step in creating a safe environment for them to grow and learn.

happy baby

There are a range of safety products on the market that can make parent’s life easier. However, there are also some simple and traditional safety practices that will keep your infant out of harm’s way.

Here are some tips for preparing your home for a new baby:

  • Add safety latches on all drawers and cabinets in kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and storage areas.
  • Check all electrical cords and remove any that dangle or hang down.
  • Cover all electrical outlets with spring loaded covers that automatically close when the cord is removed.
  • Roll all cords for blinds or drapes above the height that a crawling baby, toddler or infant can reach.
  • Have a new crib and mattress for the baby that is designed to prevent the baby from getting hands or limbs lodged between the posts. The mattress should fit correctly and extend to the frame on all sides.
  • Limit items in and around the crib and ensure any mobiles or hanging items on the crib are safe and secure and approved for use for a baby.
  • Always have the correctly sized, approved car safety seat for your baby and do not travel with the baby in a vehicle when the child is not secured in the baby car seat.
  • Avoid using air fresheners or air treatment products as an infant may be extremely sensitive to these products.

Most importantly, never leave your baby unattended unless they are in a secure location such as their crib. This will ensure that they can’t get into anything dangerous if you step away for a minute.

At Premier Academy, the safety of your children comes first. We offer affordable childcare in the Omaha & Elkhorn area, visit us at premieracademyinc.com. 

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What to Look For in a Daycare Provider When You Visit

It is difficult to know what to look for in a daycare provider, when it comes to your children. As a parent, you want to give your child the best start in life.  Carefully choosing a high quality child care center is the first step.

Why Early Learning is Important

Kids need to socialize with other children from a very young age. It allows them to become familiar to social interaction, sharing and good manners. Not only will they learn how to act and behave around others, they will learn valuable reading and writing skills.

Statistics show that kids who don’t attend preschools and head straight into schools have a much harder time learning than the children who did attend preschools.

How Teachers Interact With Children

When choosing a preschool for your child, you need to note everything you see when you are taken around the preschools:

  • How the teachers and teachers look after children
  • How do they react to children
  • How do they treat children

Another important thing to watch out for is the way teachers greet children. Do the teachers come down to kids’ eye levels to address them and talk with them? You can usually tell if a teacher has a genuine love and passion for young toddlers when you first meet them.

You want to find a preschool that shows a love for kids and their development. Teachers should address kids in a grown up manner, but take time to acknowledge each child

Observe Your Surroundings

The most important job of a daycare center is to make sure your child is safe. Be sure to confirm that they are a licensed daycare before any consideration. When you visit the facility it should be clean and free of any safety hazards to your young child.

Note how you feel when you visit. Is it bright and pleasant or depressing and dull? Does it make you happy, do you hear sounds of laughter and fun, or silence? How you feel is important when determining what to look for in a daycare provider.

We invite you to schedule a tour with Premier Academy and see the difference a quality daycare center can make. We offer affordable childcare in the Omaha & Elkhorn area, visit us at premieracademyinc.com. 

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Outdoor Play for Children During the Winter is Important

The benefits of outdoor play for children during the winter are significant in any season. Even winter. Even in Nebraska! Unfortunately, the average child spends fewer than 15 minutes each day in outdoor activity and that number drops even lower in the winter.

Outdoor Play for Children During the Winter

An article from Business Insider, Why Our Kids are Going to Play Outside This Winter, and Yours Should Too, According to Science, talks about the importance of outdoor play for children during the winter and all year. While it’s true that it takes more effort to get outside in winter, it’s just as Important. It also offers many benefits.

Experts agree that unless there are howling winds, driving snow or subzero temperatures, children benefit from playing outdoors in winter. That’s because they get the opportunity to explore, create and meet new challenges.

At Premier Academy we find ways to keep your child engaged in learning, all year. We offer affordable childcare in the Omaha/Elkhorn area, visit us at premieracademyinc.com. 

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