Parent Resources

Physical behaviours such as hitting, pushing, grabbing, or pulling are common in early childhood. Young children are still learning how to manage big emotions, communicate their needs, and interact with others. With consistency between home and daycare, we can help them develop safer and more respectful ways to express themselves.

Why These Behaviours Happen

Children may use physical actions when they don’t yet have the skills to express themselves with words. Reasons include:

Frustration, anger, or excitement
Difficulty sharing or waiting
Overstimulation
Seeking attention
Developing impulse control

How We Respond at the Daycare

To provide calm, consistent guidance, our educators use clear, positive language instead of trigger words like “no” or “stop.” These phrases help children understand what to do, not only what not to do.

“Keep your hands to yourself.”

This is one of the key phrases we use daily. It’s simple, direct, and helps children understand boundaries during play and transitions.

“Red light.”

This quick cue helps children pause immediately and gives them a moment to reset.

Positive redirection

We guide children toward safer choices:

“Let’s use gentle hands.”
“You can say ‘I don’t like that.’”
“Let’s take a break together.”
"You can always ask for teacher's turn"

How Families Can Support This at Home

Using the same phrases at home can make a big difference. Consistency helps children understand expectations across environments.

Here are simple ways families can support:

Use positive language

Try:
- “Hands down.”
- “Keep your hands to yourself.”
- “Let’s calm our bodies.”
Help name emotions
“You’re feeling upset. Let’s breathe together.”
Offer choices
“Do you want space or a hug?”
Stay calm and consistent

Working Together

When families and educators use the same words and strategies, children receive clear, predictable guidance. This helps them develop self-control, build emotional understanding, and learn safer ways to express themselves.
If you would like support or tips for home, we’re always here to help!

How to Dress for the Weather Guide

Outdoor play is great way to support healthy growth and development. Opening the door to the outdoor play in all kinds of weather provides children and adults with opportunities to spark their curiosity, leading to wonder, exploration, and learning. When children have the right clothing for the season it contributes to them having positive, rich, outdoor play experiences that just can't happen indoors. Get outside, be curious, let children lead and have fun!

Support outdoor play year round by bringing these items daily for the Summer Season:

Sweater
T-Shirts
Shorts/Long Pants
Socks/Shoes
Hats/Bucket Hat
BPA-Free Water Bottle
Swimsuit/Swim Trunks/Water Shoes (if you have)/Towel
Extra Change of Clothing, including Socks and Underwear (if needed)

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