Little Gardeners, Big Discoveries: How Gardening Grows Young Minds
At Lyndon Learning Childcare, we believe some of the most meaningful learning happens when children are given the chance to get their hands dirty—literally! That’s why we love introducing our little learners to the wonders of gardening. With just a patch of soil, a few seeds, and plenty of sunshine, children are able to experience hands-on lessons that spark curiosity, build responsibility, and cultivate a deeper connection to the world around them.
Gardening may seem like a simple outdoor activity, but it’s actually a powerful teaching tool that supports growth in all areas of early childhood development.
Hands-On Science in Every Seed
When a child plants a seed and watches it grow, they are witnessing science in action. Gardening introduces young children to important scientific concepts in a natural and age-appropriate way. As they care for their plants, they begin to ask questions like:
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What do plants need to grow?
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Why do some seeds sprout faster than others?
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What happens if we forget to water the plants?
These questions lead to exciting discoveries and foster the early development of scientific thinking—encouraging observation, prediction, and problem-solving. Whether it’s watching roots grow in a clear container or noticing which flowers attract bees and butterflies, our little gardeners become scientists in their own right.
Growing Responsibility and Patience
Gardening also teaches children about responsibility and the importance of consistent care. At Lyndon Learning, children are given age-appropriate gardening tasks—watering plants, gently removing weeds, or checking for changes in growth. These small jobs help build a sense of ownership and pride in their work.
Unlike many activities in a fast-paced world, gardening teaches patience. Plants don’t grow overnight. Children learn that good things take time, and the reward of seeing their very first flower bloom or tomato ripen is always worth the wait.
Math, Literacy, and Motor Skills in the Garden
Did you know gardening also supports early math and literacy development? It’s true!
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Math: Children count seeds, measure water, track plant height, and compare leaf sizes. They begin to understand patterns in nature and notice sequences in growth stages.
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Literacy: We label plant markers, write names on garden charts, and read books about plants and bugs during our outdoor time. These real-life connections reinforce vocabulary and language comprehension.
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Fine and gross motor skills: Digging, scooping, pouring, and pinching help build coordination and strength in little hands—skills that support handwriting and everyday tasks.
A Connection to Nature (and Their Food)
Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of gardening is the sense of connection it builds—to the earth, to the food we eat, and to the cycles of life. Children begin to understand where fruits and vegetables come from, making them more curious and open to trying new foods.
We love seeing the pride on a child’s face when they harvest a carrot or taste a cherry tomato they helped grow. These experiences deepen their appreciation for nature and foster habits of healthy eating.
Planting Seeds for a Lifetime of Learning
At Lyndon Learning Childcare, our garden is more than just a collection of plants—it’s a living classroom where wonder blooms and young minds grow. Whether they’re digging in the dirt, watering with care, or celebrating the first sprout, our little gardeners are building skills that will last a lifetime.
So the next time your child comes home with a bit of soil under their nails and a story about their garden “baby,” know that something beautiful is growing—both in the ground and in their heart.
Popsicles and Patterns: Sneaky Summer Learning Through Play
At Lyndon Learning Childcare, we believe the best kind of learning happens when children don’t even realize it’s happening. During the summer months, we embrace this idea wholeheartedly—turning warm-weather fun into rich, hands-on educational experiences.
One of our favorite approaches? Sneaky summer learning—where popsicles, sidewalk chalk, bubbles, and nature walks all become tools for teaching.
You might be surprised how much a child can learn from a simple summer activity. Let’s take a closer look at how we sneak in learning all season long.
Popsicles: Sweet Treats with a Learning Twist
Who doesn’t love a cold popsicle on a hot summer day? At Lyndon Learning, we turn this classic treat into an opportunity to explore patterns, colors, counting, and even science.
During popsicle-making activities, children can:
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Follow a sequence of steps (hello, early literacy and executive function!),
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Measure and pour ingredients (basic math and motor skills),
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Observe changes in matter as liquids freeze into solids (early science concepts),
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Make predictions about how long it will take to freeze or which flavor will taste the sweetest.
We also use popsicles as a way to introduce pattern recognition. Think layered popsicles with alternating colors—red, yellow, red, yellow. Children begin to see and describe the pattern, then try to recreate it on paper or with other objects like beads, crayons, or colored blocks.
Sidewalk Chalk: Math, Literacy, and Movement
Sidewalk chalk is a summer staple, but at Lyndon Learning, we use it for more than just colorful art. With a little creativity, chalk becomes a powerful learning tool.
Here’s how:
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Number lines and hopscotch games help children practice counting, sequencing, and simple addition/subtraction.
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Letter tracing and name writing reinforce early literacy skills and fine motor control.
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Pattern drawing (like circles, stars, triangles) boosts shape recognition and critical thinking.
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Story paths turn a chalk-drawn trail into a storytelling adventure, where children walk from one picture to the next and help narrate what happens.
Plus, because it all happens outdoors, kids get fresh air, sunshine, and gross motor movement while they learn!
Water Play and Bubble Science
You don’t need a lab to teach science—you just need water and a few curious minds. During summer, we incorporate water play into our curriculum with simple experiments and observations.
Examples include:
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Making bubbles and testing wand shapes (Which shape makes the biggest bubble? The longest lasting?),
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Floating and sinking experiments with toys in the water table,
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Creating “rain” in a jar with shaving cream and colored water,
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Comparing melting times of ice cubes in sun vs. shade.
Children learn to ask questions, make predictions, and observe outcomes—all core elements of scientific thinking.
Learning Happens Everywhere
The beauty of summer learning is that it doesn’t have to feel like “school.” At Lyndon Learning Childcare, we believe that curiosity should lead the way. Whether we’re building sandcastles, going on a nature walk, or enjoying snack time outdoors, we take every opportunity to nurture early learning in playful, engaging ways.
So when your child comes home chatting about popsicles or showing you a chalk drawing, you can smile knowing they didn’t just play today—they learned, too.
Here’s to a summer full of sunshine, giggles, and learning that sticks—just like a popsicle on a hot day.
Get Ready for Kindergarten: Summer Prep Tips for Parents
The excitement of heading to kindergarten is just around the corner! For both parents and children, this milestone can bring a mix of emotions—nervousness, excitement, and a sense of anticipation. As the summer months unfold, this is the perfect time to prepare your child for the transition to kindergarten and ensure they feel confident and ready when the first day of school arrives.
At Lyndon Learning, we believe that a successful transition to kindergarten starts long before the school year begins. With a little planning and a lot of encouragement, summer can be a great time to set the stage for a smooth and positive start to this next big chapter. Here are some practical tips for parents to help their children get ready for kindergarten in a fun and stress-free way.
1. Establish a Routine
One of the most helpful things you can do for your child during the summer months is to establish a routine. Kindergarten will have set times for school, lunch, nap (if applicable), and play, and starting to practice these routines at home can make the transition smoother.
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Create a Morning Routine: Help your child get used to waking up, getting dressed, and having breakfast at the same time each day. It may seem simple, but this helps children feel more secure and know what to expect, easing anxiety about the school day ahead.
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Bedtime Consistency: Consistent bedtimes are essential. Make sure your child is getting enough sleep, as this will help them stay focused and energized when they start school. Consider winding down with calming activities like reading stories or listening to soft music to signal that bedtime is near.
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Practice Independence: Kindergarten will require children to be more independent, so encourage them to practice tasks like getting dressed, brushing their teeth, and putting away their belongings. These small tasks help boost confidence and prepare them for the responsibilities they’ll have in school.
2. Develop Basic Skills
Kindergarten teachers often look for certain basic skills when students start school. Summer is the perfect time to gently introduce and practice these skills in a relaxed, low-pressure environment. Here are some essential skills to focus on:
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Fine Motor Skills: Encourage activities that develop hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, such as coloring, drawing, cutting with child-safe scissors, and playing with playdough. These activities not only boost dexterity but also help children feel more confident with writing and using classroom tools.
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Recognizing Letters and Numbers: While formal reading and math instruction will come later, it’s helpful if children can recognize letters and numbers. Use flashcards, puzzles, or even interactive games to help your child learn the alphabet and basic numbers. You can also sing songs, read alphabet books, and practice writing letters to make learning fun.
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Listening and Following Directions: Practice activities that require your child to follow simple instructions, like “Pick up the red block” or “Put your shoes by the door.” These activities will help them get used to listening to teachers and following directions in the classroom.
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Self-Help Skills: Help your child practice personal skills such as zipping their backpack, opening snack wrappers, and washing their hands independently. These skills not only foster independence but also ensure your child can take care of themselves in a busy classroom environment.
3. Foster Social Skills
Kindergarten will be a big social adjustment for your child, as they will meet new friends and learn to interact with a larger group. Use the summer to help your child develop key social skills that will be vital in school:
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Sharing and Taking Turns: Use playdates, parks, or even family games to practice sharing and taking turns. These are essential skills for playing cooperatively with classmates. Encourage sharing toys, playing games, and working together to solve problems.
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Expressing Feelings: Help your child understand and express their emotions by labeling feelings such as happy, sad, angry, or excited. Talk about how to handle different emotions appropriately and how to ask for help when needed. This helps children feel comfortable in expressing themselves in social settings.
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Polite Manners: Encourage your child to practice saying “please,” “thank you,” and “excuse me.” These simple acts of kindness go a long way in helping children build positive relationships with their peers and teachers.
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Group Activities: Arrange opportunities for your child to engage with other children in group activities, such as playdates, classes, or community events. Practicing group participation can help them get used to being in a classroom setting.
4. Visit the School and Meet the Teacher
Familiarity can reduce anxiety. If possible, arrange a visit to your child’s kindergarten classroom before school begins. Many schools have open houses or allow parents and children to tour the school. Here’s what to focus on during the visit:
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Explore the Classroom: Walk around the classroom, looking at where the children will sit, where the toys are, and where important areas like the bathroom and snack areas are located. Let your child ask questions and express their thoughts to make the space feel more familiar and less intimidating.
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Meet the Teacher: If your child’s teacher is available, introduce them to your child. A warm introduction can help reduce any fear your child may have about starting school. If meeting the teacher is not possible before school starts, talk about the teacher’s role and how they will be there to help your child.
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Practice the Drop-Off Routine: If allowed, take your child to the school at the same time the first day will start. This helps your child feel more comfortable with the drop-off routine and gives you a chance to point out familiar faces and places.
5. Make Learning Fun with Educational Activities
Summer doesn’t have to be all about prep work. Keep learning fun by introducing playful, hands-on activities that engage your child’s curiosity while preparing them for kindergarten:
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Science Experiments: Simple science experiments, like making a volcano with baking soda and vinegar or observing plants grow, encourage children to ask questions and explore the world around them.
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Read Together: Reading is one of the most important skills children develop before kindergarten. Choose books with colorful pictures, rhyming words, and simple sentences. Make reading time interactive by asking questions about the story and characters.
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Nature Walks: Take walks in the park, observe the animals, plants, and even insects around you. This encourages curiosity and a love of discovery while practicing vocabulary and listening skills.
6. Prepare for Separation
Starting kindergarten often means spending more time away from parents. To ease the separation anxiety that both children and parents might feel, practice saying goodbye in a positive way.
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Talk About the Transition: Acknowledge the changes ahead and talk about the exciting things your child will experience in kindergarten, like making new friends, learning fun things, and playing new games. Reassure them that you will always be there to pick them up after school.
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Practice Short Separations: If possible, practice brief separations by leaving your child with a trusted family member, friend, or at a summer camp for a few hours. This can help them become more comfortable with the idea of spending time away from you.
Conclusion
Getting ready for kindergarten is an exciting time filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and new experiences. As parents, you can help ease the transition by establishing routines, reinforcing key skills, fostering social development, and introducing fun learning activities during the summer. By preparing your child for kindergarten with love and patience, you are setting them up for success and helping them feel confident and excited to start this next chapter of their educational journey. At Lyndon Learning, we’re here to support both you and your child every step of the way—because every milestone matters!
Celebrating Spring Holidays Around the World
Spring is a season of renewal, light, and joy—and around the world, people celebrate this special time with vibrant traditions, foods, and festivals. At Lyndon Learning Daycare, we believe that learning about different cultures helps children develop empathy, curiosity, and an appreciation for diversity.
That’s why each spring, we take time to explore how families and communities around the globe welcome the season with festivals, colors, songs, and stories. Here’s a look at some of the beautiful spring holidays we introduce to our little learners and the lessons they teach us!
1. Holi – The Festival of Colors (India)
Holi is a joyful Hindu festival celebrated in India and other parts of the world. It marks the arrival of spring and is often called the “Festival of Colors.”
🌈 How we celebrate at daycare:
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We enjoy a “color splash” day with sidewalk chalk, tissue paper crafts, and bright artwork.
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We read simple stories about Holi that explain its message of joy, friendship, and new beginnings.
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We talk about inclusion and kindness—important values that Holi celebrates.
2. Nowruz – Persian New Year (Iran and Central Asia)
Nowruz, meaning “new day,” is the Persian New Year, celebrated on the spring equinox. Families prepare a Haft-Seen table, clean their homes, and enjoy traditional food, dancing, and music.
🌷 How we celebrate at daycare:
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We make our own version of a spring nature table, filled with seeds, flowers, and symbols of new life.
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We talk about the idea of fresh starts and setting intentions—in a way that makes sense for young children.
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We learn greetings in Farsi like “Nowruz Mobarak!” (Happy Nowruz!)
3. Easter – A Celebration of Hope (Various Countries)
Easter is celebrated by many Christians around the world as a time of hope and renewal. While religious observances vary, many families enjoy traditions like egg decorating, special meals, and springtime crafts.
🐣 How we celebrate at daycare:
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We read spring-themed stories about baby animals and blooming gardens.
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We decorate eggs with markers or stickers and go on a spring scavenger hunt.
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We talk about the values of hope, kindness, and family.
4. Songkran – Thai New Year (Thailand)
Songkran, celebrated in April, marks the traditional Thai New Year and is known for its fun water festivals! The celebration includes cleaning homes, visiting family, and splashing water as a symbol of cleansing and renewal.
💧 How we celebrate at daycare:
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On warm days, we do outdoor water play with buckets, sponges, and sprinklers.
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We learn a few Thai words and phrases, and look at pictures of Songkran festivals.
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We talk about how water helps things grow, connecting it to spring gardening.
5. Earth Day – Celebrating Our Planet (Global)
Earth Day, celebrated on April 22, is a worldwide event that teaches us the importance of caring for our environment.
🌎 How we celebrate at daycare:
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We plant seeds and care for classroom plants or our garden.
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We make art from recycled materials and talk about reusing and reducing waste.
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We learn that taking care of nature helps everyone—a simple but powerful message for little ones.
6. Cherry Blossom Festivals (Japan & Worldwide)
In Japan, spring is welcomed with Hanami, the tradition of gathering under blooming cherry trees. It’s a time to appreciate beauty, reflect, and spend time with family.
🌸 How we celebrate at daycare:
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We make cherry blossom art using paint, tissue paper, or cotton balls.
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We learn about the Japanese custom of slowing down and enjoying nature.
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We talk about seasons changing and how each brings something special.
Why We Celebrate Spring Holidays at Lyndon Learning
By learning about spring holidays from around the world, children:
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Develop respect for other cultures and traditions
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Practice kindness, curiosity, and open-mindedness
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Begin to understand that while we may celebrate in different ways, we all share the joy of community, growth, and new beginnings
Through simple activities, stories, music, and art, we help our students connect with the wider world—all while having fun together.
Final Thoughts
Spring is a time of celebration, and at Lyndon Learning Daycare, we honor that joy by learning about how different cultures welcome the season with hope, love, and togetherness. By sharing global traditions with young children, we’re planting seeds of understanding that will grow with them for years to come.
Want to learn more about how we weave culture and creativity into our curriculum? Contact Lyndon Learning Daycare today—we’d love to welcome you to our community! 🌍🌸🥚
Springtime Science: Discovering Weather Patterns
Spring is an exciting time of year when nature begins to wake up from its winter nap. Flowers bloom, birds return, and the weather becomes a fascinating mix of sunshine, showers, wind, and everything in between! At Lyndon Learning Daycare, we use this lively season as an opportunity to introduce our little learners to the wonderful world of weather through hands-on science activities and playful exploration.
From observing clouds to creating their own “rain,” children begin to understand that the changing sky tells a story—and they love being the scientists who get to investigate it!
Why Teach Weather Science in Early Childhood?
Learning about weather isn’t just fun—it’s foundational. Springtime science introduces children to basic concepts in:
☁️ Observation and prediction – What do clouds mean? Will it rain?
🌦️ Patterns and changes – Why is it sunny one day and stormy the next?
🌡 Measurement and tools – How do we know how warm or windy it is?
🌀 Cause and effect – What makes wind blow or rain fall?
Through age-appropriate weather science, we help kids develop critical thinking, vocabulary, and curiosity about the natural world—all while getting outside and having fun!
Spring Weather Activities at Lyndon Learning
We bring weather science to life through playful, sensory-rich activities that allow children to see, feel, and experience weather firsthand. Here are some of our favorite springtime science experiences:
1. Cloud Watching & Charting
Children lay on the grass and watch clouds drift by, learning about shapes and types like cumulus (fluffy) and stratus (flat).
🖍 They draw what they see and chart the weather each day—sunny, cloudy, windy, or rainy—building early graphing and recording skills.
2. DIY Rain Clouds in a Jar
Using shaving cream and colored water, children make their own “rain clouds” in a clear jar to simulate how clouds become heavy and release rain.
🌧 This visual science experiment teaches concepts like absorption and precipitation in a way that’s magical and easy to understand.
3. Weather Station Play
Our pretend-play area includes weather tools like thermometers, wind socks, and rain gauges (many handmade by the children themselves!).
🌡 Kids act as weather reporters, learning new vocabulary like temperature, forecast, and humidity while practicing storytelling and communication skills.
4. Rainbow Science
Spring showers often bring rainbows, and we explore the science behind them with light refraction experiments using spray bottles and sunlight.
🌈 We also create rainbows with prisms and art supplies—linking science with creative expression.
5. Windy Day Fun
On breezy spring days, we bring out streamers, pinwheels, and paper kites to observe how the wind moves.
🌀 We ask questions like, “Which direction is the wind blowing?” and “What makes it go faster?”—prompting simple hypothesis-making and observation.
Building Weather Vocabulary & Scientific Thinking
Alongside each activity, we introduce age-appropriate weather words like:
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Storm
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Breeze
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Thunder
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Lightning
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Forecast
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Cloudy
By hearing, seeing, and using these words in context, children develop strong language skills and early scientific thinking, such as making predictions and comparing outcomes.
Connecting Science to Everyday Life
One of the best parts of learning about spring weather is that it’s something children can observe every day—on the playground, on the way to daycare, or looking out their window at home.
We encourage families to ask their child questions like:
👀 “What kind of clouds do you see today?”
🎒 “What do you think we should wear if it’s windy?”
🌧 “Do you think it will rain later?”
These simple conversations help children connect what they learn in daycare to the world around them, reinforcing their curiosity and confidence.
Final Thoughts
At Lyndon Learning Daycare, we believe that science begins with wonder—and springtime is full of wonders just waiting to be explored. By helping children observe, ask questions, and explore the changing weather, we’re planting the seeds for a lifelong love of learning and discovery.
Want to learn more about how we bring science and play together every day? Contact Lyndon Learning Daycare to schedule a visit or join our spring adventures! 🌤🌈🌦