As a mom, I know how challenging it can be to limit screen time when kids love it so much, and sometimes it feels like the easiest way to get a moment’s peace. While I recognize that too much screen time isn’t ideal, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is one option I feel good about recommending to other parents. When I do allow screen time, Daniel Tiger helps ease that “mom guilt” a little, offering children valuable lessons and gentler engagement than most shows out there. Here’s why I love it.

1. Songs That Teach Important Social-Emotional Lessons

One of the best parts of Daniel Tiger is how it uses simple, catchy songs to teach children critical social-emotional skills. Lessons like “When you feel so mad that you want to roar, take a deep breath and count to four” are memorable and easy for young children to understand and apply. Music is a powerful teaching tool because it grabs attention and reinforces messages through repetition and rhythm. For our preschoolers at Love2Learn, these songs make it easier for them to remember and use helpful strategies when they face big emotions.

 

2. A Thoughtful, Slow Pace with a Story Arc

Unlike high-energy shows like Cocomelon or Paw Patrol, Daniel Tiger has a gentler, slower pace. This pacing is intentional; it supports children’s natural attention spans without overstimulation, making it easier for them to process and follow the story. Following a narrative arc from beginning to end helps children develop focus and comprehension skills. Watching a story unfold helps with sequencing, memory, and empathy as they connect with the characters’ emotions, supporting brain development in a way that fast-paced shows often cannot.

 

3. Tackling Practical Life Situations

One of the show’s greatest strengths is how it addresses real-life situations that children may face. Topics range from potty training and going to the dentist to understanding the death of a pet. By gently introducing these themes, Daniel Tiger prepares children for new experiences they may encounter, easing potential anxieties and giving them a framework for how to handle them. This approach allows children to experience these situations with a familiar character, which can help reduce fear and make challenging situations seem more manageable.

 

4. Modeling Gentle Parenting and Sensitive Conversations

Daniel Tiger also shows children—and adults—how to navigate sensitive topics in a thoughtful, nurturing way. The adults in the show, including Daniel’s parents, model patience, empathy, and clear communication. Watching how they respond to Daniel’s questions and emotions has even taught me a lot about engaging with children in a supportive, constructive way. It’s refreshing to see parenting styles that prioritize a child’s emotional needs, and it’s a great model for children to learn healthy communication and respect for others.

 

5. Continuing the Legacy of Fred Rogers

As a fan of Mr. Rogers, I feel a personal connection to Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood. Fred Rogers was a visionary in early childhood education, deeply committed to helping children navigate their emotions and understand the world around them. His show was groundbreaking in its warmth, compassion, and respect for children’s experiences. I love that Daniel Tiger carries forward Mr. Rogers’ legacy by continuing to educate and empower children in a gentle, thoughtful way. His impact is still reaching young minds today, shaping a new generation with his timeless wisdom.

At Love2Learn, we’re selective about the shows we endorse, but Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood is a clear winner. It not only entertains but teaches children essential skills they’ll carry with them for years. For us, this show is about more than screen time—it’s a meaningful tool for growth, learning, and compassion.

At Love2Learn Early Learning Center in Mechanicsburg, PA, we know that play is the foundation for learning in early childhood. One of the most impactful types of play is dramatic play, a form of pretend play where children take on different roles, act out scenarios, and explore their world through imagination. This type of play might look like simple fun, but it’s essential for building key developmental skills that set the stage for a lifetime of learning.

What is Dramatic Play?

Dramatic play is a type of play in which children engage in imaginative role-playing. They might act out scenarios from their everyday lives, such as cooking a meal, going to the store, or running a coffee shop. At Love2Learn, we change our dramatic play themes monthly to align with our curriculum, which keeps things fresh and exciting! This month, our children have loved raking leaf piles and working at our pumpkin patch, while next month, they’ll be exploring a cozy coffee shop and a Native American teepee.

The Developmental Benefits of Dramatic Play

Dramatic play isn’t just about fun—it provides a powerful way for young children to build foundational skills. Here are just a few of the benefits children gain from engaging in dramatic play:

1. Cognitive Development and Problem-Solving Skills

When children pretend to be different characters or scenarios, they engage in problem-solving. For example, figuring out how to “run” a coffee shop teaches them sequencing, planning, and organization—all skills they’ll use throughout their lives.

2. Social and Emotional Growth

Dramatic play encourages children to see the world from others’ perspectives, which nurtures empathy. By acting out roles with friends, they learn cooperation, turn-taking, and communication skills, all of which are crucial for emotional intelligence.

3. Language and Literacy

During dramatic play, children often use language to express ideas, negotiate roles, and communicate scenarios. Whether taking a customer’s “order” or pretending to “rake leaves,” they expand their vocabulary, improve sentence structure, and develop early literacy skills.

4. Creativity and Imagination

Creative thinking is central to dramatic play. Taking on different roles encourages children to think beyond their immediate environment, expanding their creativity in a natural and engaging way.

How We Bring Dramatic Play to Life at Love2Learn

Our changing themes at Love2Learn are designed to immerse children in a new, imaginative environment every month. By offering different play scenarios, such as our seasonal pumpkin patches or upcoming coffee shop and teepee setup, we encourage curiosity and excitement in learning. These setups tie into our monthly curriculum themes, allowing children to explore and deepen their understanding of the world around them.

Dramatic play at Love2Learn Early Learning Center is more than just make-believe—it’s a journey of discovery, skill-building, and, most importantly, joy! By cultivating these rich, imaginative play experiences, we help children build the confidence and competence they need to thrive.

At Love2Learn Early Learning Center in Mechanicsburg, PA, I often notice the direct impact that children’s lunches and snacks have on their behavior throughout the day. A well-balanced meal can keep kids focused, calm, and energized, while some common lunchbox foods lead to energy crashes, mood swings, or hyperactivity. Below are the top five foods I frequently see in my students’ lunches that make me cringe—and healthier swaps that I recommend for better behavior and overall well-being.

1. Children’s Yogurt

Why it makes me cringe: Many children’s yogurts are loaded with unnecessary sugars, which can cause energy spikes and crashes, leading to mood swings and poor focus.

Healthier swap: Try a low-sugar option like Oikos Triple Zero Greek yogurt. It’s high in protein and has no added sugars. For an extra treat, add fresh fruit like blueberries or strawberries to boost flavor naturally.

2. Chips (Doritos, Cheetos, Goldfish)

Why it makes me cringe: Chips like Doritos, Cheetos, or even Goldfish are full of unhealthy fats, salt, and artificial additives that may contribute to hyperactivity and make it hard for kids to stay focused.

Healthier swap: Swap these with whole wheat crackers such as Back to Nature Stoneground Wheat Crackers, which are made with whole grains and provide a healthier crunch. Pair them with hummus or guacamole for added flavor and nutrition.

3. Juice Boxes

Why it makes me cringe: Most juice boxes are packed with sugar and provide little in terms of real nutrition, leading to energy crashes that affect mood and concentration.

Healthier swap: Replace juice boxes with water or flavored water infused with real fruit (like lemon, berries, or orange slices) for a refreshing, hydrating option. You could also opt for milk or a low-sugar dairy-free milk alternative like unsweetened almond milk, which provides hydration without the sugar spike.

4. Packaged Cookies and Snack Cakes

Why it makes me cringe: Packaged cookies and snack cakes contain high amounts of sugar, preservatives, and unhealthy fats, which contribute to hyperactivity and energy crashes, affecting behavior throughout the day.

Healthier swap: Opt for fresh fruit like berries, apple slices, or orange segments. These natural alternatives are sweet, provide a boost of vitamins, and deliver sustained energy without the crash. You can also try homemade trail mix with dried fruit and seeds as a nut-free, healthy snack.

5. Processed Lunch Meat (Ham, Bologna)

Why it makes me cringe: Processed meats like ham or bologna are often loaded with sodium and nitrates, which can make kids feel lethargic or irritable and don’t offer the healthiest nutrition.

Healthier swap: Swap processed lunch meats with grilled chicken, turkey slices, or plant-based proteins like veggie wraps or falafel. These options are higher in nutrients, providing protein and healthy fats to help children stay energized and focused.

The Takeaway

The foods we give our children have a direct impact on their ability to stay calm, focused, and engaged. By making these simple swaps, you can help ensure that your child has a productive, happy day at school. At Love2Learn, we’re committed to helping our families find nutritious solutions that benefit children’s learning and overall well-being.

Have more questions about healthy lunches? Feel free to reach out—we’re always here to help!

Bibliography

1. Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. “Added Sugar in the Diet.” The Nutrition Source. Accessed October 23, 2024. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/carbohydrates/added-sugar-in-the-diet/.
2. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Processed Foods: What You Should Know.” Mayo Clinic. Accessed October 23, 2024. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/processed-foods/art-20043941.
3. Nemours KidsHealth. “Sugary Drinks and Your Child.” Nemours Foundation. Accessed October 23, 2024. https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/sugary-drinks.html.
4. American Heart Association. “Healthy Alternatives to Snack Foods.” Accessed October 23, 2024. https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/healthy-snacking-tips.
5. Children’s Health. “How Does Nutrition Affect Children’s Behavior?” Accessed October 23, 2024. https://www.childrens.com/health-wellness/how-does-nutrition-affect-childrens-behavior.

At Love2Learn Preschool in Mechanicsburg, PA, we believe that before children can fully thrive in an academic environment, they must first feel a deep sense of love, safety, and belonging. This philosophy is rooted in attachment theory, which is essential to understanding how children learn and develop. Inspired by the principles outlined in Gabor Maté’s book Hold Onto Your Kids, we focus on building strong, meaningful connections with each child to support their emotional and cognitive growth.

Why Attachment Matters in Early Childhood

According to Gabor Maté, children are naturally inclined to look to their caregivers for guidance, security, and love. When children feel secure in their relationships, they are more likely to respond positively to discipline, structure, and learning opportunities. However, when that sense of attachment is weak or missing, children may struggle to follow directions, manage their emotions, or engage in the learning process. This is why it’s crucial to establish a nurturing environment where children can build trusting relationships before expecting them to absorb new information.

At Love2Learn, our team is committed to fostering these essential bonds. We know that children who feel connected and supported are more likely to excel not only socially but also academically. This core belief drives everything we do—from the design of our classrooms to the way we interact with each child and their family.

Creating a Loving Environment for Growth

At our preschool, we prioritize creating a loving atmosphere that promotes attachment and emotional well-being. Here’s how we incorporate attachment-based practices into our daily routines:

1. Responsive Caregiving: Our teachers are trained to be responsive to each child’s unique emotional needs. We observe, listen, and respond with care and empathy, ensuring every child feels seen and heard.
2. Individualized Attention: By maintaining small class sizes, we can give each child the attention they need to feel connected. This one-on-one interaction helps children feel secure and builds trust.
3. Consistent Routines: Routine and consistency are key to helping children feel safe. When they know what to expect, they are more likely to feel calm and ready to learn.
4. Family Partnerships: We collaborate closely with families to strengthen the child’s sense of security both at school and at home. This partnership creates a cohesive support system that reinforces positive attachment.

The Impact of Love and Belonging on Learning

Research shows that children learn best when they feel emotionally safe. At Love2Learn, we believe that when children feel loved and supported, their brains are primed for learning new skills and concepts. Our curriculum is designed to engage children in meaningful, hands-on activities that stimulate curiosity while also providing the comfort of a secure, loving environment.

We help children navigate their emotions, build healthy relationships with peers, and develop the social-emotional skills needed for future academic success. By focusing on attachment and emotional well-being, we ensure that our students are ready to take on new challenges with confidence and joy.

Love2Learn: Where Children Grow Through Connection

Choosing a preschool is an important decision, and at Love2Learn, we prioritize your child’s emotional and academic success. Our focus on love, attachment, and learning creates a nurturing environment where your child can thrive. We invite families in Mechanicsburg and surrounding areas to experience the Love2Learn difference, where your child will feel a strong sense of belonging and be set on the path to lifelong learning.

Ready to learn more about how Love2Learn can support your child’s development? Contact us today or schedule a tour to see how we can partner with you in providing your child with the love and guidance they need to grow.

Bibliography

Maté, Gabor, and Gordon Neufeld. Hold Onto Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers. Vintage Canada, 2005.

National Scientific Council on the Developing Child. “The Science of Early Childhood Development.” Harvard University, Center on the Developing Child, 2007, https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/inbrief-science-of-ecd/.

Shonkoff, Jack P., and Deborah A. Phillips, eds. From Neurons to Neighborhoods: The Science of Early Childhood Development. National Academy Press, 2000.

Swim, Terri Jo. Infants, Toddlers, and Caregivers: Caregiving and Responsive Curriculum Development. Cengage Learning, 2019.

At Love2Learn Preschool in Mechanicsburg, PA, we believe that every child deserves access to a quality education, regardless of their family’s financial situation. That’s why we proudly accept the Child Care Works subsidy program, a Pennsylvania initiative that helps families afford childcare and early education.

What is the Child Care Works Program?

Child Care Works is a program designed to assist low-income families by providing financial support for childcare services. This initiative, funded by the state of Pennsylvania, ensures that parents can work or attend school while their children receive the nurturing care and education they need to thrive.

Eligible families can receive subsidized childcare at approved providers, such as Love2Learn Preschool. The amount of the subsidy is based on income, family size, and the cost of care, making it an invaluable resource for many families.

Why We Accept Child Care Works at Love2Learn

At Love2Learn, we are committed to providing a nurturing and enriching environment where all children can learn, grow, and become the best versions of themselves. We understand that financial barriers can make it difficult for some families to access high-quality early education. By accepting the Child Care Works subsidy, we ensure that our preschool remains accessible to a diverse community of children.

Our program is designed to offer a holistic approach to early childhood education, focusing on social, emotional, and academic development. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to explore, discover, and develop their unique talents in a safe and supportive environment.

How to Apply for the Child Care Works Subsidy

If you’re interested in enrolling your child at Love2Learn Preschool and think you might qualify for the Child Care Works subsidy, the application process is straightforward. You can apply through the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) in your county. The ELRC will determine your eligibility based on your income and family size, and if you qualify, they will work with you to find an approved childcare provider—like Love2Learn.

To learn more about the program, you can visit the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website or contact the ELRC in Cumberland County.

Join Us at Love2Learn Preschool

At Love2Learn, we’re more than just a preschool—we’re a community. We welcome families from all walks of life and are committed to making early education accessible to everyone. By partnering with the Child Care Works program, we’re ensuring that every child in Mechanicsburg has the opportunity to receive the quality education they deserve.