Why We Practice Natural Gross Motor Development
The question is not how we can “teach” an infant to move well and correctly, using cleverly thought up, artificially constructed, complicated measures, using exercises and gymnastics. It is simply a matter of offering an infant the opportunity – or, more precisely, not to deprive him of…
The Most Practical Step Towards a More Peaceful Home with Young Children
Being a mom to two little boys has definitely brought out the worst in me. One moment everything is fine, and the next I am harried, overwhelmed, covered in food and taking my frustration out on my kids. I’m just not…
Why I am Loving the Terrific Twos
Toddler N. will be two years and six months old in less than two weeks. Two year olds, in my opinion, get a pretty bad rap. The age is associated with temper tantrums, willful disobedience and getting into all sorts of…
The Most Important Skill You Can Develop to Help Your Kids Learn
Life with young kids gets intense. Some mornings pass in a blur of crumbs and diaper changes. Last Thursday I was apparently so busy that I walked right out the door carrying a sippy cup, which I didn’t notice until…
Book Review: Risk and Adventure in Early Years Outdoor Play
Taking risks is a key part of growing up, one that many kids these days are missing out on. They are never out of sight from an adult, they are plucked from the top of playground equipment before they have…
Five Reasons to Stop Making Excuses, Bundle Up, and Get Outside with the Kids
My relationship with the outdoors is mixed. I remember enjoying some outside activities when I was growing up in Indiana (hiking in state parks, wandering to the creek near our house, sneaking my brothers’ My First Sony out of the house…
Welcome to Around the Thicket
Hi, I’m Amy, and I have seen one too many pins on Pinterest with home-school curriculums for preschoolers that center on worksheets, complicated activities, and parent-directed teaching. Learning in the early years is near and dear to my heart. My husband,…
