Blog
We Think the We Thinkers! Curriculum is Exactly What our Children Need!
At JCC Chicago, we are committed to meeting the unique needs of the children in our programs and ensuring that every child has the resources they need to be successful. As educators, we know that social-emotional competence is one of the most important predictors of children’s academic performance in elementary school. But what is social-emotional […] Learn More ›
Social Emotional Spotlight – Sam’s Tips: Backseat Fighting
“She’s kicking my chair!” “She’s looking at me!” This is not pleasant to listen to and you can only do so much from the front seat. We often get into a cycle of yelling, repeating “stop,” bribery, threatening, or a host of other strategies that aren’t particularly effective. One strategy I’ve found to be the […] Learn More ›
Social Emotional Spotlight–Sam’s Tips: Model By Example
Lately I’ve noticed an uptick in the sassy tone my 3 year old speaks to me. Of course, this is age appropriate in many ways, but I also know that my tone plays a role in this too. When we are running late or I’ve asked her multiple times to do something, my tone instinctively […] Learn More ›
Social Emotional Spotlight – Sam’s Tips: Burning Off Energy
“Go outside, run around, and burn off that energy.” Have you ever said that to your kid? It sounds good, but have you ever noticed they actually seem to become more energized? Sometimes, a free for all can make things much worse. There’s a difference between going outside and running around everywhere, and intentionally running […] Learn More ›
Social Emotional Spotlight – Sam’s Tips: Messy Play
Kids learn through play and most kids love messy play. Messy play is difficult for a lot of adults to tolerate. It isn’t a sensory experience that we particularly enjoy, however it is a phenomenal learning experience for your child. Young children need to see and feel their world to understand it. This helps them […] Learn More ›
Social Emotional Spotlight – Sam’s Tips: Tantrums in Stores
It happens to all of us and it’s never fun. You’re embarrassed, you feel like everyone is judging you, you’re sweating more than you’d like, and you just don’t understand why your kids can’t control themselves for 5 minutes. I thought I could take my girls to Crate & Barrel to ask a salesperson something. […] Learn More ›