New Year: New Start of Traditions

As the New Year approaches, this is a perfect time to pause, reflect, and welcome a new start. This is a change for families everywhere to begin reflecting on the past twelve months and imagining what the next year might hold. At Summit Preparatory Academy, we believe this season is more than a date on the calendar. We encourage families to take the opportunity to reconnect with their children, strengthen routines, and create joyful traditions that set the tone for the year ahead.

For many parents, the holiday rush can feel overwhelming. Between gatherings, travel, and last‑minute to‑dos, it’s easy to lose sight of the simple moments that make this time of year special. The New Year offers a natural pause, a chance to slow down and celebrate not just the big milestones but the small victories that made your family stronger. Maybe your child learned to tie their shoes, made a new friend, or discovered a love for story time. These little achievements deserve recognition, and the New Year is the perfect moment to honor them.

One of the most meaningful ways parents can celebrate is by creating family traditions that children can look forward to year after year. These don’t have to be elaborate.

Here is a few ideas to get you started:

1.  “family countdown” before bedtime
2.  a special New Year’s Eve craft- glitter is optional
3. Make a Cake
4.  Play a cozy movie night
5. Play a family game like Keep it Up with a balloon or Twister
6.  Fill up a jar of memories from the year

If you need more ideas, there are plenty of additional activities perfect for your preschooler. 

Children thrive on routine and connection, and these shared experiences help them feel secure and loved. Additionally, some families may choose to set intentions instead of resolutions to focus on values and habits that bring joy. Parents might choose themes like kindness, curiosity, or patience. Meanwhile, children can join in by sharing something they want to learn or try in the coming year. These conversations help little ones build confidence and understand that growth is a lifelong journey. This approach may work especially well for families with a mix of ages and stages.

The New Year is also a wonderful time for parents to reflect on their own well‑being. Caring for young children is rewarding, but it can also be exhausting. Therefore, taking a moment to acknowledge your efforts, celebrate your resilience, and set gentle goals for self‑care can make a big difference. Whether it’s carving out time for a hobby, reconnecting with friends, or simply allowing yourself more rest, nurturing yourself helps you show up as the parent you want to be.

At Summit Preparatory Academy, we witness firsthand how much children benefit when families embrace these moments of connection. When parents feel supported and intentional, children feel it too. That’s why we encourage families to use the New Year as a time to strengthen communication. Ask your child about their favorite memories from the past year. Share stories from your own childhood. Talk about what you’re excited for in the months ahead. Altogether, these conversations build trust and deepen your bond.

As we welcome a brand‑new year, Summit Preparatory Academy is honored to be part of your family’s journey. We look forward to supporting your child’s growth, celebrating their milestones, and partnering with you to create a nurturing environment where they can thrive. From our family to yours, we wish you a joyful, peaceful, and inspiring New Year filled with love, learning, and new beginnings.

Supporting Toddler Development at Home with  Simple Activities That Make a Big Difference  

The toddler years are an exciting time filled with rapid growth, endless curiosity, and the first big steps toward independence. While every child develops at their own pace, parents play a vital role in supporting their toddler’s learning long before preschool begins. The good news? You don’t need expensive toys or complicated setups to help your little one learn. Simple, everyday activities done at home can boost language, motor skills, problem-solving, and emotional development. At Summit Preparatory Academy, we encourage families to embrace playful learning, so here are some engaging ideas you can start using right away.

1. Build Language Through Daily Conversation

   

Language development blossoms when toddlers are spoken to frequently. Narrate your daily routines—describe what you’re cooking, what you see out the window, or what the family pet is doing. Toddlers absorb vocabulary long before they can speak it.
Try creating a “language-rich moment” each day: sit with your child, hold an object such as a cup or toy car, and talk about its color, size, and purpose. Ask simple questions—even if your toddler can’t answer yet—because it helps them learn the rhythm of conversation.

Reading together is another powerful tool. Choose board books with bright pictures, repeat favorite stories, and pause to let your child point at items on the page. Repetition builds understanding and confidence. Find your local library here to discover new books!

2. Encourage Fine Motor Practice With Everyday Materials

Fine motor skills—like grasping, pinching, and hand-eye coordination—can be strengthened with items you already have at home. Offer activities such as:

• Sorting dry pasta or cereal into containers
• Peeling stickers and placing them on paper
• Transferring water with cups and spoons in a shallow bin
• Building with blocks or stacking recycled containers

These small movements help prepare toddlers for later skills like drawing, dressing themselves, and eventually writing. Keep activities short and fun, and don’t worry about messes—learning is often a little messy.

3. Support Gross Motor Skills Through Movement Play

Toddlers have a natural desire to move, and movement is essential for muscle development, balance, and coordination. Create simple obstacle courses using pillows, boxes, or painter’s tape on the floor. Encourage your toddler to crawl under chairs, jump over soft items, or walk along a taped line.
Dancing is another wonderful whole-body activity. Put on upbeat music and show your child how to wiggle, stomp, and clap. This builds body awareness and is a joyful way to release energy on rainy days.

4. Explore Sensory Play to Spark Curiosity

Sensory play helps toddlers learn through touch, sight, sound, and even smell. You can keep it simple with materials like:

• Rice or oats in a bin with scoops
• A dish of soapy bubbles
• Play dough (store-bought or homemade)
• Ice cubes or frozen fruit to explore temperature

As your toddler pours, squeezes, and experiments, they’re gaining early science and math concepts such as cause and effect, volume, and texture differences. Always supervise sensory play to keep it safe.

5. Foster Independence With Practical Life Tasks

Toddlers love to help, and involving them in small household tasks builds confidence and responsibility. Invite your child to place napkins on the table, carry socks to the laundry basket, or water a small plant.
These everyday moments teach sequencing, introduce routines, and promote a sense of belonging. It also encourages patience and perseverance—important emotional skills that will support future learning.

6. Use Creative Play to Build Imagination and Social Skills

Creative play doesn’t require fancy art supplies. Offer crayons, large sheets of paper, washable paints, or recycled materials for collages. Check out other online resources like Highlight Parenting for free printable sheets or easy craft ideas. Let your toddler explore without focusing on the final product. Pretend play is equally important. Use stuffed animals to pretend-feed, build a blanket fort, or create a simple tea party. These imaginative moments strengthen social understanding, emotional expression, and problem-solving.

7. Remember That Connection Matters Most

Above all, toddlers thrive when they feel safe, loved, and connected. Any activity becomes a learning opportunity when paired with warm attention. Celebrate small milestones, follow your toddler’s interests, and enjoy the journey of discovery together.

At Summit Preparatory Academy, we believe parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. By weaving these simple activities into your routine, you can nurture your toddler’s growth in joyful, meaningful ways—right from home. We are here to help you and your child as they grow- contact us to learn more.

 

Homemade Gifts from the Heart

At Summit Preparatory Academy, we believe that some of the most meaningful gifts don’t come from a store. The most cherished gifts are those made from the heart. As the holiday season approaches or birthdays roll around, it can be easy to get swept up in the idea that giving means spending money. These events can become stressful for both parents and children who feel pressured to meet high expectations. Instead, we encourage families to focus on the art of gift-giving as a beautiful opportunity to express love, creativity, and thoughtfulness without ever stepping foot in a store.

Homemade Gifts Kids Can Make

Children are natural creators. With a little help from an adult, their imagination can truly shine. They can craft heartfelt gifts that bring joy to family and friends. To get started, here are a few simple, age-appropriate ideas we love at Summit Preparatory Academy:

• Handprint Art: This is a classic keepsake. Kids can dip their hands in paint and press them onto paper or canvas. Then, add a sweet message like “Hands down, you’re the best” for a personal touch.

• Decorated Picture Frames: Using popsicle sticks, cardboard, or inexpensive wooden frames, children can glue on buttons, beads, or dried pasta. Afterward, insert a favorite photo of the person receiving the gift.

• Homemade Coupons: Help your child brainstorm acts of kindness they can offer such as “One big hug,” “Help setting the table,” or “Storytime with me.” Write or draw them on slips of paper and bundle them with ribbon.

• Salt Dough Ornaments: Made with flour, salt, and water, these can be shaped, baked, and painted. They’re perfect for holidays or as year-round decorations.

• Nature Collages: Collect leaves, twigs, and flowers during a walk. Then, glue them onto paper to create a beautiful, earthy design.

These projects don’t require expensive materials. Kids will have fun sharing imagination, time, and love with someone who means the most to them. Need more ideas you can check out these homemade ideas. You can even expand beyond crafty creativity to other homemade ide

as like baking cookies, preparing a simple meal, or helping with a task like raking leaves. At Summit Preparatory Academy, we take pride in encouraging our students to be creative, generous, and thoughtful all year long.

The Importance of Gratitude 

Gratitude is not only about being thankful but recognizing all the blessings in our lives including appreciation and kindness for those around us. It is a moment to pause and recognize what we have and what we sometimes may take for granted. Practicing the art of gratitude has also been found to have health benefits, even for kids John Hopkins Medical reported people who practice gratitude show signs of less stress, better sleep, improved optimism, better relationships, and less reported anxiety and depression. Teaching children to give is about more than the gift itself. More importantly, it’s about cultivating empathy, gratitude, and connection. When kids make something for someone else, they begin to:

•  Think of others: Who would love this? What would make them smile?
• Feel pride in their effort: “I made this just for you”
• Understand emotional value: A handmade card can mean more than a store-bought toy

Ultimately, these are powerful lessons that shape how children relate to the world around them.

Parent Tips: Encouraging the Giving Spirit

Parents play a key role in modeling and supporting the joy of giving. To help nurture this value at home, consider the following tips:

• Talk about it: Share stories of times you gave or received a homemade gift. Emphasize how it made you feel.

• Make it a family activity: Set aside time to craft together. Your involvement shows that giving is important and fun.

• Celebrate the effort: Focus on the thought and care your child put into the gift, not the final product.

• Encourage giving beyond holidays: A “just because” gift can be even more special. For example, a drawing for a neighbor or a thank-you note for a teacher.

Next time a special occasion arises, rather than heading to the store or shopping online for material items, consider gathering some crayons, paper, and glue. Let your child lead the way. You might just discover that the simplest gifts are the ones that last the longest.

A Lasting Lesson

At Summit Preparatory Academy, we see firsthand how proud children are when they present a handmade gift. Their eyes light up not because they bought something shiny, but because they created something meaningful. In the end, these moments teach that love isn’t measured in dollars but in thoughtfulness. We look forward to helping create meaningful gifts your little one can share with you this holiday season. Come set up a tour at Summit Preparatory Academy and see the magic unfold.

The holiday season for many is described as “the most wonderful time of the year,” and for families with young children, it can be truly magical. Starting new traditions of making memories, twinkling lights, festive music, and food. However, it can bring its share of stress and change of routine,  especially for parents of young children. At Summit Preparatory Academy, we understand the ups and downs of the holiday season and are here to support families with practical tips to help you enjoy the festivities while keeping your little ones happy and healthy.

The Joys of the Season

For toddlers and preschoolers, the holidays are full of wonder. They’re experiencing traditions, stories, and celebrations with fresh eyes. Whether it’s decorating cookies, singing songs, or seeing snow for the first time, these moments are rich with learning and joy. At ABC Daycare, we embrace the start of the season with age-appropriate activities that spark creativity and connection. From story times to winter-themed crafts, we help all students explore the holidays in ways that are inclusive, gentle, and fun. If you are looking for new traditions or fun holiday crafts to do together, check out PBS Kids Holiday Crafts. 

The Meltdown Seasons

While the holidays bring joy, they can also be overwhelming for both parents and children at times. Between shopping, travel, family gatherings, and disrupted routines, it’s easy for meltdowns to creep in. Young children are sensitive to changes in schedule, going to new locations, and energy levels. Meltdowns, sleep disruptions, and picky eating are all common for children to experience. 

Holiday Coping Tips for Parents

As parents and caregivers, we pour all our energy, time, and money into making elaborate moments around the holidays. However, it is important to remember that as parents, we do not have to do it all. Remember, your child doesn’t need elaborate moments, toys or constant events. Children need meaningful presence, patience, and love that match your family traditions.

Here are a few ways to help slow down and make the season smoother for you and your little ones:

1. Stick to Routines When Possible

Children thrive on predictability. Try to maintain regular meal times, naps, and bedtime routines—even during travel or busy days. Familiar structure helps reduce anxiety and overstimulation.

2. Simplify Your Schedule

It’s okay to say no to events that feel too hectic. Choose a few meaningful activities and make sure your schedule in downtime on the calendar. Quiet mornings or pajama days can be just as special as big outings.

3. Create Kid-Friendly Traditions

Let your child help participate in holiday traditions like decorating the house, baking food, or wrapping gifts. Simple rituals like reading a holiday book each night or making homemade ornaments give them a sense of involvement, joy, and connections.

4. Prepare for Transitions

Talk to your child about what to expect from the next activity or event. It provides a child with a sense of safety to help them feel ready.

5. Practice Self-Care

Your well-being matters. Take breaks, ask for help, and carve out moments to recharge. A calm parent helps create a calm environment.

If you are looking for additional tips to managing during the holiday season, check out these tips from Children’s Health Fund

 Let’s Make the Season Bright

The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. With a little planning, a lot of patience, and support from your childcare community, you can create a season filled with warmth and connection.

Summit Preparatory Academy is here to help you navigate the ups and downs with confidence. Contact us to learn more about our winter programs, family resources, and how we make every season a celebration of learning and love.  Summit Prep would like to wish you and your little ones a joyful, peaceful holiday season!

 

Halloween is a magical time for toddlers—full of imagination, dress-up fun, and sweet memories.  At Summit Preparatory Academy, we love seeing our little learners light up in their costumes, whether they’re roaring like lions or twirling ballerinas. The best costume ideas come from kids’ imaginations. Costumes do not have to be over the top, expensive, or scary! Simple, fun, comfortable, and practical will make great memories.

Creative Costume Ideas- Safe & Adorable

At Summit Preparatory Academy, we have compiled the top costume ideas from our kids and staff! Need some ideas? Check this out: Here are 10 fun and imaginative costume ideas that preschoolers and their families can enjoy together—perfect for daycare parades, trick-or-treating, or themed parties!

1. Festive Fall: Classic fall favorites like orange pumpkin, white ghost, or skeleton.
2. Favorite Storybook Characters: Dress up as Little Red Riding Hood, and parents can be Grandma and the Big Bad Wolf. It’s a classic tale with fun charm.
3. Busy Bees:  Black shirt and yellow tights with little wings can make a cute buzzing bee.
4. Pizza Party: Everyone loves pizza! dress as a slice of pizza or even a delivery box!
5. Wizarding Family: Transform your little one into a tiny wizard or witch, and parents can be professors from a magical academy. Add wands, robes, and spell books for flair.
6. Zoo Crew: Let your child pick their favorite animal—like a lion or panda—and parents can be zookeepers or other animals. Everyone in the family can join in!
7. Crayon Box: Each family member wears a solid color with a “Crayola” label. Your preschooler can be their favorite color, and together you’re a full box of creativity.
8. Sweet Treats: Your little one can be a cupcake, donut, or candy corn. It’s sugar-coated fun without the sugar rush.
9. Dino Family: Let your preschooler stomp around as a dinosaur.
10. Future Career: Ask your child what they would like to become when they grow up police officer, a nurse, a vet, or a librarian. The options are endless!

Need more ideas? Check out these DIY costumes for kids!

Comfort Comes First

Preschoolers are active, curious, and sensitive to how things feel. A great costume should allow them to move freely, stay warm, and feel good all day. Look for:

• Soft, breathable fabrics like cotton or fleece
• Costumes that fit well—not too tight, not too loose
• Easy on/off designs for quick diaper changes or bathroom breaks
• Flat, sturdy shoes instead of costume heels or slippery soles

Avoid masks that cover the face or restrict breathing. Instead, face paint or headbands with ears or antennae.  At Summit Preparatory Academy, we celebrate Halloween with indoor parades, themed crafts, and lots of giggles. We encourage families to choose costumes that allow children to play, move, and enjoy the festivities safely. For more safety tips, check out Safe Kids Worldwide for a fun and safe holiday!

Join the Fun at Summit Preparatory Academy!

Halloween is more than just costumes—it’s a chance to spark creativity, build confidence, and make joyful memories. We invite families to share their costume ideas and join us for our upcoming fall events. Whether your toddler is a tiny tiger or a pint-sized pumpkin, we can’t wait to celebrate with you!  Contact Summit Prep Academy to learn more about our seasonal activities and how we make every holiday safe, inclusive, and full of fun.

Preschool Dental Health

When it comes to raising healthy, happy preschoolers, teaching good dental habits is just as essential as providing nutritious meals and ensuring plenty of sleep. At Summit Preparatory Academy, we believe that caring for little teeth lays the foundation for a lifetime of bright, confident smiles. For children under five, dental care goes beyond brushing; it is about building self-care routines, making hygiene fun, and helping kids feel proud of taking care of themselves.

Why Early Dental Care Matters

Baby teeth may be temporary, but they play a big role in your child’s development. They help with chewing, speech, and holding space for adult teeth. Cavities in baby teeth can lead to pain, infections, and even trouble eating or sleeping. That’s why starting dental care early is key.

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should visit a dentist by their first birthday. These early visits help spot any issues, get kids comfortable with dental checkups, and give parents personalized guidance.

Brushing Basics for Preschoolers

Preschoolers thrive on routine, and brushing teeth should be part of their daily rhythm in the morning and night.

• Use a soft-bristled, child-sized toothbrush and a smear of toothpaste (about the size of a grain of rice for kids under 3, and a pea-sized amount for kids 3–5).
• Brush for two minutes, gently cleaning all surfaces of the teeth and gums.
• Make it playful: Use songs, timers, or apps that turn brushing into a game. Let your child pick their toothbrush or toothpaste flavor to boost excitement.
• Supervise brushing until your child has the coordination to do it well—usually around age 7.

At Summit Preparatory Academy, we reinforce brushing habits through story time, songs, and role-play. When kids see brushing as part of their daily routine, both at home, they’re more likely to stick with it.

Nutrition for Healthy Teeth

What your child eats affects their dental health. Sugary snacks and drinks can lead to cavities, while nutrient-rich foods help strengthen teeth and gums. Here are some tooth-friendly tips:

• Limit juice and sugary snacks. Offer water as the main drink and save sweets for occasional treats.
• Serve crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery—they help clean teeth naturally.
• Include calcium-rich foods like yogurt, cheese, and leafy greens to support strong enamel on the teeth
• Avoid sticky snacks like gummies or dried fruit, which cling to teeth and feed cavity-causing bacteria.

At Summit Preparatory Academy, we serve balanced meals and snacks that support growing bodies and healthy smiles. We also encourage water breaks throughout the day to keep kids hydrated and rinse away food particles.

Making Dental Care Magical

Preschoolers love stories, characters, and imagination, even when it comes to their teeth!  Here are a few creative ways to make oral hygiene exciting:

• Introduce a “tooth fairy” routine: Celebrate lost teeth with small notes or tokens.
• Use books and cartoons about brushing and visiting the dentist to normalize the experience. Check out PBS Kids for games and videos to reinforce good dental care.
• Create a brushing chart with stickers or rewards for consistent brushing habits. When kids feel proud of their dental habits, they’re more likely to keep them up.

When to See the Dentist

Regular dental checkups are essential, even for young children. Most dentists recommend visits every six months. If your child complains of tooth pain, has bleeding gums, or you notice discoloration or spots on their teeth, don’t wait—schedule a visit.

Parents Make the Difference

Children learn best by watching the adults around them. When parents model good dental habits—brushing, flossing, and visiting the dentist—kids are more likely to follow suit. Make brushing a family activity, talk positively about dental care, and celebrate small wins.

At Summit Preparatory Academy, we believe that strong partnerships with families lead to healthy, thriving children. That’s why we’re committed to supporting wellness in every form—from nutrition and hygiene to emotional development and learning.

Join the Summit Preparatory Academy Smile Squad

Want to learn more about how we support healthy habits at Summit Preparatory Academy? Contact us today to schedule a tour or ask about our upcoming family-focused events.  Let’s make dental care something they will smile about!