Supporting Early Childhood Development: A Guide for Parents
Raising young children offers the opportunity to shape not only their minds but also the foundation of their lifelong learning and well-being. For parents homeschooling preschool or who are newer parents, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start, especially with the temptation to use screens as an easy distraction. However, the best way to support your child's development involves being present, creating meaningful experiences, and nurturing their natural curiosity. Below is a guide to help parents foster healthy development through daily activities, books, nature, and play.
The Power of Presence and Connection while Homeschooling Preschool
Your relationship with your child is the cornerstone of both their personal development and academic success. Building a foundation based on love, trust, and respect will help your children feel safe and open to learning. This relationship extends far beyond academics—it lays the groundwork for their confidence and ability to navigate life.
Being present in your child’s life means engaging with them throughout the day, offering both structure and spontaneity. Whether it’s cuddling during storytime or sharing simple activities, your presence reinforces their sense of security and belonging.
Use Books as a Foundation for Learning
Books can serve as a powerful tool to support early learning. Even with toddlers, reading together creates opportunities to bond and learn naturally. Board books, picture books, or even bath-safe books engage your child in sensory ways, making reading a joyful experience. Rather than worrying about formal curriculum at this stage, think of books as your "curriculum."
For example, a book like Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? introduces children to colors, animals, and patterns. Through repetition, children develop memory skills and anticipation. If a particular subject like horses catches your child's interest, build on that by visiting a farm or finding more books about animals. Follow their curiosity—it becomes the spark for deeper learning.
Hands-on Learning Through Play
Play is essential for children’s development. As the psychologist Jean Piaget said, “Play is the work of children.” Similarly, Maria Montessori emphasized the importance of allowing children to engage in uninterrupted play to develop concentration and creativity. Through both structured and unstructured play, children explore the world around them, solve problems, and exercise their imagination.
Simple activities such as building with blocks, creating with craft materials, or using toy tools can mimic real-world tasks and allow children to practice essential life skills. Play also fosters independence, especially when children are given choices about how they want to play or what activities they prefer.
Exploring Nature Together
Spending time outdoors offers countless benefits for children’s mental and physical health. Nature is a natural classroom—children learn through what they touch, see, and hear. Whether you take a nature walk to look for leaves and bugs or simply explore rocks near your house, these activities spark curiosity.
Outdoor play can also nurture your relationship with your child. Walking side-by-side on a trail or engaging in scavenger hunts fosters conversation and builds connection. Additionally, being in nature allows parents to step away from distractions like household chores, helping you be more fully present with your child.
Encouraging Independence with Gentle Guidance
It is important to support your child’s growing independence by giving them opportunities to make choices. Offering simple options—such as which book to read or which snack to eat—helps children develop decision-making skills. Allowing them to pursue their interests, whether it’s rockets or toy cars, also gives them a sense of autonomy and ownership over their learning.
At the same time, setting boundaries teaches children the importance of limits and responsibility. Loving authority, combined with respectful guidance, establishes the kind of structure that will benefit them in school and life.
Building Relationships Through Routine and Playtime
Daily routines, such as shared meals and snack times, are valuable opportunities for connection. They not only provide nourishment for your child’s growing body and brain but also create consistent moments to engage and communicate. Simple conversations at the table, along with hugs and playful exchanges, show your child that they are respected and valued.
Children thrive on love and respect, and when parents honor their child’s need for attention, children learn to extend that same respect to others. These moments, no matter how small, build the foundation for healthy relationships in the future.
Embrace the Wonder of Childhood
Young children live in the moment and find joy in simple things. As parents, slowing down and sharing in that wonder can be a gift for both you and your child. Instead of rushing through tasks, try to appreciate the world through their eyes. Whether it's spending twenty minutes looking at rocks or reading the same book for the tenth time, these moments of exploration and joy are valuable for their development—and a reminder to savor the beauty of childhood.
Letting Go of Perfection and Screen Dependency
It’s natural to feel the need to keep your child entertained or to default to screens when unsure what to do. However, children need far more than screen time—they need real experiences, exploration, and interaction with their caregivers. When you engage with them meaningfully through books, play, and nature, you support their development in ways that screens cannot.
It’s also okay if you feel bored or uninspired during playtime—your child’s enthusiasm will carry them forward. You don’t need to lead every activity. Sometimes, simply being present is enough. Give yourself permission to enjoy the slower pace of life with young children, and trust that these small, meaningful moments will help them grow into confident, curious, and capable learners.
Final Thoughts
The early years are an incredible time for children to learn, explore, and bond with their caregivers. By focusing on presence, books, play, and nature, parents can nurture their child’s curiosity and development in simple yet powerful ways. There is no need to rush or rely on screens—children thrive when given time, attention, and opportunities to learn at their own pace.
Every child is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Embrace the process of learning alongside your child and remember that homeschooling—and parenting—are journeys of discovery for both of you. With patience, love, and a little creativity, you can create a meaningful early learning experience that sets the stage for a lifetime of growth.