A Look Back at an Amazing Year at Love2Learn Early Learning Center

As 2025 comes to a close, we find ourselves reflecting with full hearts on the laughter, milestones, and meaningful moments that made this year so special at Love2Learn. We welcomed new families, celebrated big “firsts,” and continued to build a preschool community grounded in love, learning, and belonging.

Whether your child has been with us since January or joined us just recently, we are so grateful to be part of your family’s journey. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights of this joyful, growth-filled year.

We Grew Our Programs—and Our Little Learners

This year, we expanded to welcome even more curious minds, including the exciting addition of our two-year-old program! We’ve loved watching our youngest students explore their first classroom routines, build friendships, and gain confidence every day.

From scooping rice in sensory bins to painting with pine branches, our teachers provided developmentally rich, play-based experiences that supported every area of early learning.

Whether it was fine motor work during art, language development through story time, or gross motor fun in outdoor play, we honored every milestone—big and small.

We Deepened Our Commitment to the Whole Child

At Love2Learn, we believe emotional development is just as important as academic preparation. This year, we focused even more intentionally on:

• Teaching emotional vocabulary through books and circle time
• Supporting self-regulation with calm corners and mindful moments
• Modeling and guiding peer conflict resolution
• Creating classroom cultures of empathy, kindness, and cooperation

We saw toddlers comfort friends, preschoolers problem-solve with words, and classrooms celebrate each other’s growth. These are the moments that define our work.

We Got Creative—Every Single Day

Creativity flourished in every classroom this year! Some of our favorite themes and activities included:

• Pumpkin patches and leaf piles in dramatic play
• Winter wonderlands, teepees, and even a pretend coffee shop
• Farm animal crafts, zoo habitats, and Dr. Seuss celebrations
• Watercolor resist art, snow-dough sensory trays, and bug hunts in the spring

Our teachers leaned into child-led interests and seasonal inspiration to offer hands-on learning opportunities that kept kids curious and engaged.

We Strengthened Our Values

As we grew, we remained firmly rooted in what makes Love2Learn special:

• We kept class sizes small and ratios low to give every child the attention they deserve
• We prioritized the well-being of our staff, knowing that supported teachers create safe, joyful learning environments
• We accepted Child Care Works (CCW) because we believe all children deserve access to high-quality care, regardless of income
• We remained true to our name: helping children learn through love, connection, and trust

Looking Ahead to 2026

The new year brings fresh possibilities—and we can’t wait to continue growing alongside your children. In 2026, we plan to:

• Expand our Love2Learn family by opening additional classrooms
• Introduce more outdoor learning spaces
• Add new dramatic play themes inspired by student interests
• Deepen our commitment to social-emotional learning
• Host more family events and community partnerships

Whether you’re continuing with us or just starting your Love2Learn journey, we’re honored to be part of your child’s early years.

Thank You for a Wonderful Year

To our families: thank you for trusting us with your most precious people. To our teachers: thank you for your heart, your creativity, and your steady presence. And to our students: thank you for reminding us every day why this work matters so much.

From all of us at Love2Learn—
Happy New Year!
We can’t wait to learn and grow with you in 2026.

Mechanicsburg, PA
(717) 553-0000
Now enrolling ages 2 and up | Child Care Works subsidy accepted

How We Support Emotional Regulation During the Holidays at Love2Learn

At Love2Learn Early Learning Center, we know that winter brings more than chilly mornings and warm mittens—it also brings big feelings. Between holiday excitement, disrupted routines, overstimulation, and less time outdoors, it’s no wonder that toddlers and preschoolers sometimes act out, melt down, or suddenly become clingy.

This time of year is magical—but for young children, it can also feel overwhelming. That’s why we take extra care to support emotional regulation in our classrooms during the winter and holiday season. And with just a little awareness, you can help your child navigate this time of year with confidence, too.

What’s Really Going On: Why Emotions Run High in Winter

Emotional regulation is a developmental skill—not something toddlers are born knowing how to do. It takes years of co-regulation with supportive adults for children to learn how to name their emotions, respond instead of react, and bounce back after a disappointment.

In the winter months, children face several unique challenges:

• Changes in routine due to holidays, visitors, or travel
• Less outdoor time and fewer opportunities to burn off energy
• Overstimulation from lights, sounds, sugar, and crowded spaces
• Emotional contagion from stressed or busy adults
• Anticipation and uncertainty around gifts, parties, or guests

Even happy events can be hard to process! The result? More tantrums, clinginess, refusal to follow directions, or sleep disruptions.

How We Support Emotional Regulation at Love2Learn

We don’t expect children to “be good” during the holidays—we expect them to need extra support, and we meet that need with love, patience, and practical tools.

Here are some of the ways we help:

Predictable Routines = Emotional Security

We keep our daily schedule as consistent as possible. Children feel safest when they know what’s coming next, even in a season of surprises. If we’re doing something special, we prepare them with visuals and clear language.

Calm Corners & Cozy Spaces

Every classroom has a space where children can go when they feel overwhelmed—a small nook with soft pillows, books, or sensory tools. These areas aren’t punishment—they’re invitations to self-regulate.

Name It to Tame It

We model how to talk about feelings and help children build a vocabulary around emotions. Instead of “stop crying,” you might hear us say, “You’re sad because we had to stop playing. That’s hard.”

Movement & Outdoor Play (Even in the Cold!)

Children need to move their bodies to regulate their brains. We bundle up and go outside when weather allows. Indoors, we incorporate gross motor breaks, yoga, dancing, and sensory play.

Intentional Calm Activities

During December, we incorporate more slow-paced, soothing moments—like candle-free “lights out” story time, simple crafts, and soft music to help children wind down.

What You Can Do at Home

You don’t have to be a teacher or therapist to help your child navigate winter emotions. Try these simple strategies:

• Keep bedtime and meals as consistent as possible, even during busy weeks
• Limit overwhelming environments (like long shopping trips or loud parties)
• Validate feelings instead of dismissing them—“You’re upset we can’t go outside. That makes sense.”
• Offer simple choices to give a sense of control—“Red or green mittens?”
• Model regulation—when you’re frustrated, narrate what you’re doing: “I feel stressed, so I’m going to take three deep breaths.”

When children see the adults around them managing emotions in healthy ways, they learn to do the same.

It’s Okay to Feel Big Feelings

We remind our students (and their parents): It’s okay to be excited. It’s okay to be sad. It’s okay to be tired of the holidays.

All feelings are valid. What matters is that children feel safe, supported, and loved as they move through them.

At Love2Learn, emotional intelligence is just as important to us as academic skills. We want your child to grow up not only school-ready, but also resilient, self-aware, and confident.

Want a Preschool That Supports the Whole Child?

Love2Learn offers a warm, structured, and nurturing environment designed for toddlers and preschoolers to thrive—emotionally, socially, and academically.

Mechanicsburg, PA
Call (717) 553-0000
Now enrolling ages 2 and up | Child Care Works subsidy accepted

References & Further Reading

• Zero to Three. (2021). Understanding and Managing Big Feelings in Toddlers and Preschoolers. https://www.zerotothree.org
• Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. (2011). Building the Brain’s “Air Traffic Control” System. https://developingchild.harvard.edu
• NAEYC. (2019). Supporting Emotional Development in Preschool. https://www.naeyc.org
• Siegel, D. J., & Bryson, T. P. (2011). The Whole-Brain Child: 12 Revolutionary Strategies to Nurture Your Child’s Developing Mind. Delacorte Press.
• American Academy of Pediatrics. (2020). Helping Children Cope With Holiday Stress. https://healthychildren.org

Warm, inclusive stories to spark joy, kindness, and cozy reading this December

December is one of the most magical months at Love2Learn Early Learning Center. The classrooms are full of twinkling lights, mitten crafts, and the smell of cinnamon play-dough—but the quietest, sweetest moments often happen during story time.

Books help toddlers and preschoolers connect to the season, explore traditions, and reflect on big feelings like joy, giving, and gratitude. Whether you’re building a holiday book basket at home or just want to spark meaningful conversations with your child, these stories are teacher-approved favorites in our classrooms.

Christmas-Themed Books (That Emphasize Values Over Commercialism)

We choose holiday books that reflect the wonder of Christmas while focusing on love, kindness, and family—not just presents and candy.

1. Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson

In this sweet rhyming story, Bear’s friends keep him awake to celebrate Christmas. Instead of focusing on gifts, the story ends with Bear surprising his friends with homemade treats—highlighting giving from the heart.

Why we love it:

• Gentle language and lovable characters
• Perfect for toddlers with shorter attention spans
• Reinforces generosity and friendship

2. Merry Christmas, Curious George by Margret & H.A. Rey

George’s curiosity gets the best of him as he explores holiday traditions. From wrapping gifts to decorating a tree, children get a playful introduction to Christmas excitement.

Why we love it:

• Relatable to curious preschoolers
• Offers a springboard for talking about holiday routines and traditions
• Familiar character builds connection

3. Llama Llama Holiday Drama by Anna Dewdney

Llama Llama is overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations. This book is a great tool for discussing feelings of overstimulation, anticipation, and emotional regulation—especially relevant for young children during this busy season.

Why we love it:

• Shows it’s okay to feel tired or frustrated during the holidays
• Ends with a reminder that being together is what matters most
• Helps normalize big feelings

Winter-Themed Stories (No Holidays Required)

Not all families celebrate Christmas—and even those who do often enjoy books that focus on seasonal themes like snow, warmth, and nature. These are great additions to home libraries for December and beyond.

4. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats

This timeless classic follows a young boy named Peter as he explores the snow-covered world outside his door. It’s simple, lyrical, and full of childlike wonder.

Why we love it:

• Beautiful illustrations that reflect urban and multicultural experiences
• Encourages observation, imagination, and reflection
• Excellent for language development through repetition and description

5. Goodbye Autumn, Hello Winter by Kenard Pak

This book gently transitions children from fall into winter, with poetic observations and soothing illustrations. Children greet the changing seasons through simple conversations with the natural world.

Why we love it:

• Supports science learning through the senses
• Great for calming moments or nap wind-down
• Helps children notice seasonal changes in their own neighborhood

Stories That Celebrate Giving, Light, and Family

We strive to reflect and honor a range of cultures and traditions at Love2Learn. These books are grounded in universal values like gratitude, sharing, and community.

6. The Mitten by Jan Brett

This Ukrainian folktale tells the story of a lost mitten that becomes a cozy hideout for woodland animals. Children love the repetition and the anticipation as each animal squeezes in.

Why we love it:

• Builds sequencing and prediction skills
• Promotes conversation around sharing and problem-solving
• Gorgeous illustrations full of detail

7. The Biggest Gift of All by Penny Eisler (Usborne)

This gentle story focuses on forest animals preparing for a holiday celebration—only to discover that friendship, not material gifts, is the true reward.

Why we love it:

• Encourages reflection on giving vs. getting
• Simple, cozy language for younger preschoolers
• Reinforces cooperation and kindness

How We Use Holiday Books at Love2Learn

Books are more than just read-alouds in our classrooms—they’re tools for emotional growth, conversation, and connection. Here’s how we extend reading into learning:

• Circle Time Discussions: We ask children to share their thoughts or feelings after the story. “Have you ever made a gift for someone?” or “What does your family do when it gets cold outside?”
• Dramatic Play Tie-Ins: We set up themed play centers based on what we’ve read—like a pretend hot cocoa stand after reading The Mitten.
• Craft Connections: We create ornaments, paint winter scenes, or make kindness chains tied to book themes.

Reading is one of the best ways to teach children about the world—and when combined with rich conversation and play, it becomes a powerful foundation for both language and social-emotional development.

Looking to Build Your Own Holiday Book Basket?

Keep these tips in mind:

• Choose short, engaging texts for toddlers and early preschoolers
• Look for stories that reflect your family’s values and culture
• Include a mix of familiar characters and new perspectives
• Don’t stress about reading the whole book—follow your child’s lead

If you’d like personalized recommendations based on your child’s age and interests, feel free to ask our team—we love talking books!

From Our Bookshelf to Yours

At Love2Learn, we believe in the power of books to create connection, calm, and curiosity—especially during the holidays. Whether you’re snuggling up at home or reading together in our classrooms, we hope these stories help bring peace and joy to your season.

Mechanicsburg, PA
Call (717) 553-0000
Now enrolling ages 2 and up | Child Care Works subsidy accepted

References & Further Reading

• NAEYC. (2019). Using Books to Support Social-Emotional Learning in Preschool. https://www.naeyc.org
• Zero to Three. (2022). Reading Aloud with Your Child: Why It Matters. https://www.zerotothree.org
• American Library Association. (2023). Great Books to Share During the Holidays. https://www.ala.org
• Keats, E. J. (1962). The Snowy Day. Viking Press.
• Dewdney, A. (2010). Llama Llama Holiday Drama. Viking Books for Young Readers.

Preschool teacher-approved toys and activities that support real development

Every December, parents ask us the same question:
“What should I get my child that’s fun, but also meaningful?”

At Love2Learn Early Learning Center, we love that question—because the best gifts for toddlers and preschoolers aren’t just entertaining, they’re developmentally enriching. During the holidays, it’s easy to get swept up in flashy gadgets or loud plastic toys that light up and make noise—but most of those lose their appeal (and their batteries!) quickly.

The good news? You don’t need to buy the latest trending toy to make your child happy. Here’s a guide to teacher-approved gifts that promote creativity, independence, motor skills, and joyful learning—all wrapped in fun.

1. Open-Ended Toys = Endless Possibilities

Look for toys that can be used in many different ways, rather than ones that do only one thing. Open-ended toys fuel imagination and problem-solving.

Our favorites include:

• Wooden blocks or foam blocks
• Magna-Tiles or other building sets
• Rainbow stacking arches (like Grimm’s)
• Animal figurines or dollhouse people
• Loose parts play sets (rocks, rings, scarves)

Why they’re great:
These toys grow with your child and can be used in pretend play, construction, storytelling, or sorting. No screens, no rules—just creativity.

2. Art Supplies That Encourage Expression

You can’t go wrong with a well-stocked art basket. Toddlers and preschoolers love to create, and the process is far more important than the product.

Try gifting:

• Washable paint or dot markers
• Jumbo crayons and triangle pencils
• Play dough and cookie cutters
• Safety scissors and glue sticks
• Blank sketchpads or drawing journals

Why they’re great:
Art builds fine motor skills, encourages self-expression, and gives kids the freedom to explore colors, shapes, and textures. Add an apron and a tablecloth, and you’ve got hours of play.

3. Games and Puzzles for Early Thinking Skills

Simple games and puzzles help children build memory, focus, and cooperation. Even toddlers can enjoy beginner options with adult support.

Our favorites include:

• Large wooden knob puzzles
• Matching or memory card games
• First board games (like First Orchard, Zingo, or Sneaky Snacky Squirrel)
• Lacing cards or shape sorters

Why they’re great:
Games teach turn-taking, patience, and flexible thinking—all important school readiness skills.

4. Books That Become Traditions

A beautiful picture book can become a treasured part of your family’s holiday season. Choose stories with warmth, heart, and messages about kindness, gratitude, and wonder.

Holiday favorites include:

• Bear Stays Up for Christmas by Karma Wilson
• The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats
• The Mitten by Jan Brett
• Little Blue Truck’s Christmas by Alice Schertle
• Snowmen at Night by Caralyn Buehner

Why they’re great:
Books support language development, attention span, and emotional growth—and reading together strengthens your connection.

5. Toys That Build Real-World Skills

Children love to mimic grown-ups. Tools, cooking sets, and cleaning toys give them the chance to build independence and feel capable.

Great choices include:

• Toddler-sized brooms, dustpans, or kitchen tools
• Play food and market baskets
• Pretend toolkits
• Dress-up clothes and dramatic play props

Why they’re great:
These toys support practical life skills, self-help confidence, and imaginative role-play—a vital part of early development.

Bonus Tip: Think Experiences, Not Just Stuff

Consider experience-based gifts, like:

• A “coupon” for a day out with mom or dad
• A music or dance class
• A visit to a zoo, museum, or local play place
• A DIY craft or baking kit to use together

These gifts build memories, strengthen relationships, and teach children that time spent together is just as valuable as physical items.

What We Tell Our Love2Learn Families

When it comes to gift-giving, simpler is often better. Focus on:

• Toys that grow with your child
• Materials that invite curiosity and creativity
• Activities you can do together

At Love2Learn, we use toys and tools every day that support learning through play—and the same principles apply at home. If you’re ever unsure, we’re happy to offer suggestions based on your child’s age and interests!

Happy Holidays from Love2Learn!

We’re proud to support your child’s growth not just in the classroom, but at home too. If you’re looking for a preschool that honors play, development, and joy, we’d love to meet you.

Mechanicsburg, PA
Call (717) 553-0000
Now enrolling ages 2 and up | Child Care Works subsidy accepted

References & Further Reading

• Zero to Three. (2021). Choosing Toys for Toddlers. https://www.zerotothree.org
• NAEYC. (2019). 12 Tips for Choosing Good Toys for Young Children. https://www.naeyc.org
• American Academy of Pediatrics. (2020). Toy Safety and Developmental Appropriateness. https://healthychildren.org
• Miller, E., & Almon, J. (2009). Crisis in the Kindergarten: Why Children Need to Play in School. Alliance for Childhood.
• Mayo Clinic. (2022). Benefits of Play in Child Development. https://www.mayoclinic.org

At Love2Learn Early Learning Center, we know that toddlers love to help—especially when they feel like their job really matters. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to get your little one involved in family traditions in ways that build confidence, teach responsibility, and create special memories.

Here are some fun and simple jobs even the tiniest family members can take on:

1. Make Decorations

Toddlers can help create homemade Thanksgiving decor with finger painting, handprint turkeys, or coloring placemats. Their creations may not be Pinterest-perfect—but they’ll be full of love and pride.

2. Set the Table

Let your toddler place napkins or plastic utensils at each place setting. You can even draw a little guide to show them where things go. They’ll beam with pride when guests compliment their hard work.

3. Mash the Potatoes

Under adult supervision, toddlers can help mash soft potatoes with a masher. It’s messy, sensory fun—and a great way to feel part of the cooking process.

4. Tear Bread for Stuffing

This one’s easy and safe! Give your child a bowl of bread slices and let them tear it into little pieces. It’s a great fine motor skill activity, too.

5. Serve Rolls or Napkins

With clean hands and a little direction, toddlers can help deliver rolls to the table or pass out napkins to guests. Assigning them a “real” job builds independence.

6. Help Bake (Sort Of)

Let them pour pre-measured ingredients, stir batter, or decorate cookies with sprinkles. They’ll love putting on an apron and being your sous chef!

7. Welcome Guests

Practice greetings with your child beforehand so they can help welcome friends and family. A cheerful “Happy Thanksgiving!” from your toddler will warm every heart.

8. Say What They’re Thankful For

Even young children can practice gratitude! Go around the table and let your toddler share something simple—like “my stuffed bear” or “mommy’s hugs.”

Final Thought:

At Love2Learn, we believe that even our littlest learners have big contributions to make. Giving your toddler a role in Thanksgiving isn’t just adorable—it’s a chance to build confidence, responsibility, and a sense of belonging in family traditions.

Let’s make this holiday one they’ll be proud to say they helped create!

References & Further Reading

1. National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
   NAEYC (2019). 10 Tips to Involve Young Children in Household Responsibilities.
   https://www.naeyc.org/our-work/families/10-tips-children-household-responsibilities
2. Zero to Three.
   ZERO TO THREE (2022). Helping Toddlers Learn to Be Helpful.
   https://www.zerotothree.org/resource/helping-toddlers-learn-to-be-helpful/
3. American Academy of Pediatrics.
   AAP (2023). The Importance of Participation in Family Activities for Young Children.
   https://healthychildren.org/English/family-life/family-dynamics/Pages/Why-Family-Meals-Matter.aspx
4. PBS Kids for Parents.
   PBS Kids. (n.d.). Thanksgiving Activities for Kids.
   https://www.pbs.org/parents/thrive/thanksgiving-activities-for-kids
5. Bright Horizons.
   Bright Horizons. (n.d.). Teaching Toddlers Responsibility Through Chores.
   https://www.brighthorizons.com/resources/article/teaching-toddlers-responsibility-through-chores

At Love2Learn Early Learning Center, we love everything about fall—cooler weather, colorful leaves, cozy books, and of course, all the sensory-rich learning opportunities this season brings!

Sensory play is much more than just messy fun. It supports brain development, emotional regulation, language skills, and motor coordination—all essential building blocks for early learning. And the best part? Many of our favorite fall-themed activities are easy to recreate at home with simple materials.

Here are a few of the sensory activities our toddlers and preschoolers are loving this season—plus tips so you can try them at home too!

1. Leaf Crunch Sensory Bin

We collect fallen leaves, break them into small pieces, and add them to a large sensory tub with scoops, cups, and mini fall-themed toys (like acorns or plastic pumpkins). Children love the sound and texture of crunching the leaves!

Supports:

• Tactile exploration
• Fine motor skills
• Language development (“crunchy,” “dry,” “colorful”)

Try it at home:
Collect clean, dry leaves from your yard and add measuring cups or tongs for extra fun!

2. Pumpkin Guts Play

This one’s a classic! Let your child scoop out the insides of a pumpkin and explore the slimy texture. Add spoons, muffin tins, or cups to extend the play.

Supports:

• Sensory processing
• Vocabulary development
• Courage to try new textures

Try it at home:
Not every child loves the slimy feel—offering gloves or letting them explore with a spoon can help ease them in.

3. Cinnamon & Clove Play Dough

Add fall spices like cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg to homemade or store-bought play dough. Set out cookie cutters, rolling pins, and small plastic leaves for a full fall experience.

Supports:

• Smell and touch sensory integration
• Creativity and pretend play
• Fine motor strengthening

Try it at home:
Make your own play dough with flour, salt, cream of tartar, water, and food coloring—or ask us for our favorite recipe!

4. Dried Corn Bin

Fill a large container with dried corn kernels and add small containers, measuring cups, and funnels. The sound, weight, and flow of the kernels are deeply satisfying for little ones.

Supports:

• Math and measurement concepts
• Hand-eye coordination
• Focus and calm

Try it at home:
Look for feed corn or popcorn kernels at grocery or farm supply stores. Store the bin with a lid for multiple uses.

5. Apple Scent Exploration

Slice apples and add them to a basket with whole cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg for a simple scent-based activity. Children can sort, smell, and describe the items.

Supports:

• Olfactory development (sense of smell)
• Descriptive language
• Scientific observation

Try it at home:
Turn it into a game—ask your child to describe which scent they like best or guess the spice while blindfolded.

Why Sensory Play Matters

Sensory activities are developmentally appropriate for toddlers and preschoolers because they allow children to learn through hands-on exploration. These types of play help with:

• Brain development and neural connections
• Regulation of big feelings
• Language growth and new vocabulary
• Foundational math and science skills

At Love2Learn, we build sensory play into our day because we know it’s how young children learn best—through movement, touch, smell, and active discovery.

Want to Learn More?

Our classrooms are full of sensory-rich, seasonal experiences that support every area of development. Come see how Love2Learn combines developmentally appropriate learning with child-led fun!

• Mechanicsburg, PA
• Call (717) 123-4567
• Now enrolling ages 2 and up | Child Care Works subsidy accepted

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References & Further Reading

• Zero to Three. (2020). The Power of Sensory Play. https://www.zerotothree.org
• NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children). (2019). Why Sensory Play Is Important in Early Childhood. https://www.naeyc.org
• Casey, T. (2011). Sensory Play: Play in the Early Years. Routledge.
• American Academy of Pediatrics. (2018). Developmental Benefits of Sensory Play for Young Children. https://healthychildren.org

Gascoyne, S. (2012). Sensory Play: Supporting the Very Young. Andrews UK Limited.