A message from our founder Sophie: Thirty Years at Ridley When I think about 30 years at Ridley, I don’t really think about 30 years. I think about mornings. I think about little children arriving with sleepy faces and backpacks almost as big as they were. I think about parents saying goodbye at the door, …
If you spend time around toddlers, you’ve probably held up a toy or pointed to an object and said something like: “Can you say it?” It’s such a natural instinct. We want to help our little ones talk, so we prompt them to repeat new words. But here’s the surprising part: prompting a toddler to …
Why Prompting Toddlers to Repeat Words Doesn’t Teach Language Read More »
Effective communication is foundational for the development of children, shaping their ability to express thoughts, emotions, and engage with others. To foster this vital skill and deepen the connection between our classroom activities and your interactions at home, we are providing you with “Engaging Conversations”, designed to encourage meaningful conversations with your child about their …
Avoiding Jealousy and Sibling Rivalry When Growing from One to Two Kids Bringing a second child into the family is an exciting and joyful time, but it also comes with its unique challenges, especially around sibling dynamics. The shift from one to two children can spark feelings of jealousy or rivalry in the older sibling. …
Avoiding Jealousy and Sibling Rivalry When Growing from One to Two Kids Read More »
The “Ongoing Routine” Stage Beyond the First Day: Building Positive School Routines & Happy Reunions The school transition doesn’t end at drop-off. Learn how to establish calming daily routines and make after-school reunions a time for powerful connection. You’ve survived the first day, and the drop-off is getting a little easier. Now what? The long-term …
Building Positive School Routines & Happy Reunions Read More »
The “Drop-Off” Stage Tear-Free Transitions: 6 Secrets to Easier School Drop-Offs Struggling with tearful morning goodbyes at school? Discover six strategies to make drop-offs calmer and more positive for you and your child. The morning drop-off. For many parents, it’s the most emotionally charged moment of the day. You know your child will likely be …
The “Before” Stage 5 Essential Tips to Prepare Your Child for a New School Is your child starting toddler, preschool, or kindergarten? Ease first-day jitters with five tips for a smooth, confident transition to a new school. Starting a new school is a huge milestone for your child and for you! The mix of excitement …
Your child will let you know when they’re ready to potty train. Look for these signs, typically between 18-24 months. Interest: Your child shows curiosity about the toilet or wants to imitate you using it. Communication: Your child expresses the need to go or starts using words related to potty training, it’s a good sign. …
“That’s tricky, but you can do it.” Take a break from Instead Try “That’s easy, you can do it!” But what if the child can’t do it? Then they have just failed to do something ‘easy,’ which is pretty discouraging. And if they do succeed with the task, they don’t feel good about it, because they’ve merely accomplished something …
As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, Nicole reflects on her mother’s legacy and how it has helped raise a generation of adventurers, creators, scientists, artists, and inventors. Twenty-five years ago, my mother, Sophie, opened a 1000sqft school. Her goal was to share her passion for early childhood education and making sure children were validated, seen, …