”Dads curled up with a young one reading offers a great chance for men to be close to their kids; connected through books to the greater world around them...When a Dad takes the time away from other activities, when we make that special effort to read with just them, we teach them quietly how very important they really are to us."

Click on the link below to read more from LaVar Burton of Reading Rainbow on reading with kids and fatherhood.

http://bit.ly/18omAnT

This week around the country, Teacher's Appreciation Week was celebrated. Teachers are an integral part of shaping the lives and futures of so many children, and our society as a whole. The following poem is a great illustration of how teachers contribute to the development of so many children.  I personally would like to thank teachers especially the teachers at Brockton Day Nursery! 

The Best Teachers

Teachers open up young minds,
showing them the wonders of the intellect
and the miracle
of being able to think for themselves.
A teacher exercises
the mental muscles of students,
stretching and strengthening,
so they can make challenging decisions,
find their way in the world,
and become independent.
The best teachers care enough
To gently push and prod students
to do their best
and fulfill their potential.
You are one of those.
Thank you.

By Joanna Fuchs

     Sunday, April 6, 2014 marked the start of "Week of the Young Child"  which is an annual celebration sponsored by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). The purpose of the Week of the Young Child™ "is to focus public attention on the needs of young children and their families and to recognize the early childhood programs and services that meet those needs" (naeyc.org).

     This week at BDN, we will be one of thousands of early education centers celebrating WOTYC. The Schedule of Events at Brockton Day Nursery are as follows:  

• April 7- BDN Kickoff Celebration: Art Show & Raffle
  
• April 8- BDN Crazy Hat Day & Raffle
  
• April 9- BDN Wacky Tacky Wednesday & Raffle
  
• April 10- BDN Classroom Carnival & Raffle
  
• April 11- BDN Decorate your own Cupcake & Raffle 
  

     In the spirit of "Week of the Young Child," below are play dough recipes for you to try at home with your little ones! 

Ingredients:

·       1/2 cup of salt
·       1 cup of water
·       2 tablespoons of cream of tartar
·       1 cup of flour
·       1 tablespoon of oil
·       Food coloring

Directions:

·       Mix the flour, salt, cream of tartar and oil in a pan.
·       Mix the water with the food coloring.
·       Add the water/color-mix to the other ingredients, stir well.
·       Cook on medium heat for 4-5 minutes, while constantly stirring.
·       When the mixture becomes “doughy”, remove from heat and start kneading. (the dough will be hot, so mind your hands)
·       When desired texture is achieved, the playdough is finished, enjoy!