Marching Into Fun
Hello, Families and Staff! 👋 Can you believe it? March is here, and that means we’re this much closer to spring! 🌸☀️ While we wait for Toronto to decide if it’s winter, spring, or a surprise snowstorm, we’ve got plenty of fun planned at Network!
St. Patrick’s Day Shenanigans!
Get ready for a lucky day full of green outfits, leprechaun hunts, and maybe even a few pots of “gold” (a.k.a. shiny stickers and chocolate coins 😉).
Classrooms all throughout our centres will be creating St. Patricks Day themed crafts and activities, such as sensory bins, green water play and getting creative with green playdough.
Sensory bins are a wonderful way to safely explore textures and work on hand-eye coordination, while using various tools for scooping and pouring. Get inspired to create your own sensory bin at home!
Spring Craft Madness
Tiny hands will be busy creating colorful flowers, rainbows, and all things springy—because if we craft enough sunshine, maybe the weather will take the hint?
March Break Mini-Adventures
Whether you’re traveling or staying in town, we’ll keep the fun rolling with special activities, extra giggles, and energy-burning games. (Yes, we’re on a mission to send them home tired!) Our standalone centers are planning tasty food adventures, exciting family events like story time, colorful face painting, and the always-wild Crazy Hair Day.
Helpful Tips for Our Families!
Reducing Screen Time for Your Child: Encouraging Meaningful Learning Through Play
In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere. It’s no surprise that parents can often feel overwhelmed, and in certain circumstances, turn to screens to settle or entertain their little ones. There is no judgment here—we all turn to screens when needed. While technology has its place, too much screen time can impact a child’s development, sleep, and social skills. At Network Child Care Services, we follow Ontario’s How Does Learning Happen? framework, which emphasizes belonging, well-being, engagement, and expression. By reducing screen time and encouraging hands-on experiences, our educators help children learn and grow in meaningful ways.
Create a Sense of Belonging With Family Time
Children feel safe and valued when they connect with their families/caregivers. Set aside screen-free times, like during meals or bedtime routines, to focus on family conversations and bonding.
Support Well-Being With Active Play
Too much screen time can impact physical health and emotional well-being. Instead, encourage movement! Outdoor play, sensory activities, and hands-on exploration help develop fine and gross motor skills while keeping kids engaged in the world around them. Kids are naturally curious—give them opportunities to explore! Puzzles and building blocks are also great, engaging activities. See our link to a St. Patrick’s day themed sensory bin for a fun idea.
Encourage Engagement Through
Real-World Exploration
Children are natural learners who thrive when they are curious and engaged. Reduce passive screen time by offering open-ended activities like building with blocks, pretend play, and nature walks. These experiences foster problem-solving and creativity—key aspects of learning.
Promote Expression Through Conversations and Creativity
Screen time can limit face-to-face interactions. Help your child develop communication skills by engaging in storytelling, singing songs, and asking open-ended questions. Expressing thoughts and emotions through art, music, or dramatic play builds confidence and social skills. Children also follow by example. Reduce your own screen time when spending time with your child. Reading a book together or doing a craft project can be just as entertaining!
Use Screens With Purpose
When screen time is needed, choose educational programs and watch together. Interactive discussions about what they see can enhance learning rather than making it a passive experience.
At Network’s Centres, we prioritize meaningful interactions and active learning to support each child's development. By following How Does Learning Happen?, we ensure children feel connected, engaged, and inspired in their daily experiences.