Uniting Communities through Parks: Celebrate Park and Recreation Month
Author: Austin Stanfel
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's easy to overlook the importance of green spaces and recreational facilities in our communities. However, every year, July reminds us to appreciate and celebrate these vital resources during Park and Recreation Month. This special occasion serves as an opportunity to recognize the numerous benefits of parks and recreational activities to our physical and
Preparing Children for Life: Why Social-Emotional Learning is a Must in Early Childhood Education
Author:Austin Stanfel
Social-emotional learning (SEL) develops self-awareness, social awareness, self-management, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. It is an essential component of early childhood education that helps young children learn how to manage their emotions, form healthy relationships, and make good choices. A proactive approach to SEL can help children develop the necessary skills and attitudes to thrive in school and life.
In the past, early childhood
The Case for Play-Based Learning: Engaging Students in Hands-On Experiences
Author:Austin Stanfel
For generations, the traditional classroom setup has been the go-to model for teaching and learning. This model typically involves a teacher lecturing at the front of the classroom while students sit passively in their seats, taking notes and listening attentively. While this model has been effective in some ways, it has also been criticized for needing to be more flexible and conducive to
The Playful Ascent: Riding the Trend of Rock Climbing
Author: Austin Stanfel
Rock climbing has emerged as a popular recreational activity, attracting individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Its popularity can be attributed to various factors, including its physical and mental benefits and the sense of adventure and thrill it provides. Rock climbing has even found its way into play and leisure spaces in recent years, adding a new dimension
Promoting Positive Play Experiences: Strategies to Prevent Sensory Overload on the Playground
Author: Austin Stanfel
Playgrounds have long been cherished as vibrant spaces where children can freely explore, engage in imaginative play, and develop physical and cognitive skills. However, for some children, the playground can present overwhelming challenges that lead to sensory overload. Sensory overload occurs when an individual's sensory system becomes inundated with excessive or intense stimuli from the environment, causing feelings of distress, anxiety, and
Sensory Integration Made Fun: Creating Your Own Sensory Path
Author: Austin Stanfel
A sensory path is a fun, interactive, and engaging way to promote physical activity and sensory integration for children. Sensory paths typically consist of physical activities designed to engage different senses and promote sensory processing skills, such as balance, coordination, spatial awareness, and body awareness. Sensory paths can be found in many schools, parks, and playgrounds worldwide, but you can also create