Jumpin Jax Kids

Kids   can experience stress for the same reasons that adults do, including a change in routine, family tensions, and inadequate sleep or nutrition. While some children keep their stress hidden, others display clear symptoms that should be noted and addressed. Unplanned Circumstances Many things can cause young children to become more fearful. Enrolling in a new daycare center, for example, places the child in a new environment where everything seems strange or unusual. A parent who is chronically or acutely ill can increase a child’s stress. Caregivers can do several things to help a child overcome a sense of fear. Offer reassurance that the situation is safe, and that noting bad will happen. Talk quietly and comfortingly about the situation, and let the child ask questions. Be honest about potential or real difficulties while providing assurance that everything is under control. Change of Environment Children who are adopted or placed in foster care as well as those who move to a...

Have you ever had a hard time guessing what your toddler draws? As adults, we tend to focus on what the drawing means, instead of seeing the bigger picture.  Children use art as a newfound way to express what they like, who they are, and how they see the world around them. It goes beyond replicating a flower or cat shape, which is very important in itself, but instead by creating an art piece they are learning to be themselves.  Being able to express his or her feelings, thoughts, and wishes equals freedom and safety. What are the benefits of art education in early childhood? According to Kimberly Sheridan, Ed.D., coauthor of Studio Thinking: The Real Benefits of Visual Arts Education , “It’s not as easy to test the skills that children learn from the arts, but that doesn’t make them any less important”.  She noted though that participating in a school arts program increases a child’s ability to: Observe the world carefully and discard preconceptions in order to envision ...