It takes a village

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There is an ancient proverb that “it takes a village to raise a child.”  During a recent parent meet up one got defensive saying only parents should do the “raising.”  Not debating politics or worldly influences – we simply then conversed about the benefits of involving POSITIVE family, friends, teachers, coaches, church groups and other support systems in our children’s lives.

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Watching the news can lead to debates of negative influences and confirm worldly fears, but avoiding the “village” doesn’t teach a child how to survive in it. Bubble-wrapping a child and never letting them explore their village may avoid some bruises, but it may also avoid teachable skills, even motor development. Research proves adventures are important for a child’s body and brain.

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Adventures teach kids how to play safely.  Adventures to a park to run and climb are as important as adventures to a park to play with others.  Playing with others doesn’t mean having to find similar playmates. Playmates don’t have to be the same age or look the same … Playmates help us learn how to interact.

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Mi Families teaches through interaction.  During provider trainings, parent workshops and youth services there are times to simply interact with each other through conversation and hands on activities. Mi Families facilitates programs for specific ages, but also in multi age/stage classrooms. I hope those who participate feel we are a positive part of their village!

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We only have a couple weeks left of our spring programs – which included soccer, tutoring, multi-age child care, parent and me preschool, elementary art courses and a child development class.  It’s time to prepare for summer adventures! I hope you consider enrolling your child in our part time camp or summer school options.  1-on-1 and small group options are available.

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Next week’s article will include our summer theme plan.  This weeks theme was transitioning from Mother Goose Time’s “Growing Gardens” to “Alphabet House” curriculums.  We are transitioning by learning about garden visitors and other spring animals and learning about their habitats and how animals help their own “villages”/communities.

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If your child participated this week ask them about ways they helped their community while playing and learning in our programs.  If you’d like your child to participate email Christi@MiFamilies.com or visit www.MiFamilies.com for for more information.  You can also network with us on LinkedIN, Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, etc 🙂

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