October 2, 2025 by Christopher Hooker

Autumn Magic

There’s something truly special about the first days of autumn. For toddlers, it’s a season full of wonder and discovery — crisp air, warm colors, and new celebrations. At Creekside Kids, we love watching our co-learners’ eyes light up and their curiosity when they see the world changing around them. Their interest peaks as the leaves change color and the weather begins to chill.

As autumn settles in, we’re about to hit that hectic time of year, when the holidays seem to come so quickly. Before we know it, the calendar turns, and we’re sorting out what we’ll do in 2026. We hope you and your kids can slow down and take advantage of some of the fun of autumn.

From Green to Gold: Nature’s Little Lessons

One of the most enchanting transformations of fall in Colorado Springs is watching the leaves turn. That deep summer green fades into glowing golds, fiery reds, and amber browns. It’s a perfect opportunity for toddlers to learn new words, explore textures, and notice the changes in their environment.

Don’t miss out on the chance to introduce your child to small leaf walks. They can collect colorful leaves, press them in books, and trace their veins on paper. These simple activities encourage observation, vocabulary, and connection with nature, serving to mark the change in seasons.

Tips for Parents: Making the Most of Autumn

Dress in layers. Colorado’s fall weather can change quickly. Light jackets, hats, and mittens are handy.
Bring a treasure bag. Your toddler will want to gather leaves, acorns, pinecones, and sticks.
Savor snack moments. Think of cider, pumpkin muffins, and crunchy apples — foods that match the season can enhance the sensory experience.
Extend play into the classroom or at home. Use leaf rubbings, shadow tracing, or seasonal books to reinforce what children see outside.
Talk about change. Use simple language to help toddlers understand why leaves fall, why days are shorter, and why the air feels cooler.

Fall Fun Around Colorado Springs

There’s no shortage of family-friendly autumn events where toddlers (ages 3–5) can immerse themselves in the season. Here are a few highlights for this fall:

Event	Date / Time	What to Expect
Boo at the Zoo	Oct. 17th – 19th, Oct. 24th – 26th & Oct. 31st 4 – 8:30 p.m.	Child-friendly trick-or-treating among zoo exhibits
Pumpkins in the Park – Old Colorado City	Sat., Oct. 18th 12 – 4 p.m.	Pumpkin patch, painting, crafts, balloon animals, face painting
Scarecrow Days in Old Colorado City	Oct. 5th – Oct. 31st 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.	Enjoy all the custom scarecrows along the Avenue at Old Colorado City and take pictures with your favorite scarecrow.
Trunk-or-Treat at Royal Gorge Bridge & Park	Oct. 18, 4:30 – 8 p.m.	A scenic, elevated trick-or-treating event with local groups handing out candy

These events are generally safe, well-supervised, and tailored for families with young children. Be sure to check each organizer’s website for ticketing information, age recommendations, and any COVID-19 or safety protocols they may have in place.

Halloween: Magic, Costumes, and Safety

Halloween is often a highlight for toddlers—dressing up, getting a few treats, and playfully exploring a mild scare in a supportive environment. At Creekside Kids, we LOVE Halloween and we’ve previously written several blog posts around Halloween, including:

Trick-or-Treating Safety Tips for Parents — including ideas like using strollers or wagons for little walkers, choosing bright/reflective costumes, and planning routes in advance.
Understanding the Holiday — exploring the roots of Halloween, how children process the spooky aspects, and how to make it meaningful and gentle.
What We Can Learn From Getting Into Costume — the donning of outfits has many benefits for children, and it’s a fun tradition, too!

Is your neighborhood the kind that doesn’t do much for trick-or-treaters? We’ve mentioned it before, but one of the greatest spots for Trick-or-Treating in Colorado Springs is in the Old North End, on N. Tejon Street. Families open their spookily-decorated houses to the public. It’s a great place to go as a family, if your current neighborhood has too much traffic. But be aware that it can be overwhelming to some kids, as the street is bustling with kids and adults having fun.

Here are a few additional Halloween safety pointers especially for toddlers:

Visibility is key — use glow sticks, reflective tape, or LED touches on costumes.
Choose safe costumes — avoid long trailing fabric, sharp props, or masks that impair vision; face paint is often a better alternative.
Stay together — always accompany toddlers, hold hands, and stick to familiar, well-lit neighborhoods.
Inspect treats — check candy wrappers before letting little ones eat anything.
Timing matters — trick-or-treat during early evening hours (when it’s not too dark) to make walking safer.
Set expectations — keep the experience brief, fun, and low-pressure. Not every child will want to collect a lot of candy; being comfortable is more important.

Halloween is a Teaching Opportunity

Research has shown that children can gain valuable insights from exploring concepts of fear and death. According to the Child Mind Institute, Halloween can be a perfect opportunity for children to engage with these themes in a controlled environment. By acknowledging and discussing their fears, parents can help children develop emotional resilience and a better understanding of life’s complexities. This approach enables children to process complex emotions and develop effective coping strategies, which are essential for their social and emotional development.

For younger children, the ability to distinguish between fantasy and reality is still in the process of development. This can make Halloween particularly challenging, as they may struggle to understand that spooky displays and costumes are not real. A study cited by the Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) suggests that parents should acknowledge their child’s fears and explain that these experiences are pretend. By doing so, parents can help their children feel safe while still enjoying the fun aspects of the holiday. This strategy not only calms children’s nerves but also fosters a sense of trust and security.

It’s essential for parents to remember that Halloween is meant to be fun, but it doesn’t have to be mandatory. Some children may prefer to avoid the spookier aspects of the holiday, and that’s perfectly okay. The focus should always be on the child’s comfort and joy. Parents can create alternative activities that celebrate the season without the scary elements, such as carving pumpkins or baking Halloween-themed treats, allowing children to participate in the festivities without feeling overwhelmed. For parents looking to ease their children into the spooky season, the CHOC suggests acknowledging and naming children’s fears, explaining that it’s okay to be scared, and emphasizing the pretend nature of the experiences. Additionally, parents can involve their children in the planning process, allowing them to choose activities and costumes that make them feel comfortable and excited.

Autumn is a beautiful bridge between warm summer days and cozy winter-time comforts. At Creekside Kids, we delight in each golden leaf, each costume, each little hand reaching out exploring the crisp air. We look forward to sharing these moments with your family. If you’d like to discuss a place at Creekside Kids for your kids, we invite you to click this embedded link to schedule an appointment. Let’s get to know each other! Like us on Facebook to follow our stories for news and updates. We’re located at 1201 W Cheyenne Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, and we can be reached at (719) 635-9111. Our new hours of operation are 6:45 a.m. until 5:45 p.m., Monday through Friday.

September 1, 2025 by Christopher Hooker

Why Reading to Your Preschooler Every Night is a Game-Changer

In the hustle of everyday life—between work, activities, and trying to maintain friendships, it’s easy to let reading to your child slip through the cracks. But those 20 minutes before lights out? They might be the most powerful minutes of your child’s day. Over half of today’s parents of young children are missing the boat on this critical activity. Screen time and devices do not compare to the power of regularly reading with a loved one.

The Million-Word Advantage

Did you know that research shows that children whose parents read to them regularly hear up to one million more words by age three compared to kids whose parents aren’t reading to them? It’s true– that’s from a study at Wake Forest Pediatrics. That extra exposure builds a stronger vocabulary, sharper listening skills, and more confidence once they start preschool or kindergarten. In the words of Dr. Monica Alvarez, Early Literacy Specialist: “Books are like little word machines. They give kids three times more new words than everyday conversation.” So, yes, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” really is changing your child’s brain, and quite possibly, an appetite for communication.

Building Brains, Not Just Bedtime Routines

When you sit with your child and read, you’re doing more than storytelling. Brain scans of preschoolers reveal that hearing stories activates both language and imagination centers of the brain (Time Magazine). That means they’re not just listening—they’re picturing, problem-solving, and connecting words to ideas. It’s like a workout for their developing mind.

Emotional Bonding That Lasts

Life with little ones can be chaotic. Reading each night is a chance to slow down, snuggle in, and remind your child that they’re safe and loved. It’s not just about the book—it’s about connection. Bedtime stories aren’t just words on a page, says the Child Mind Institute; they’re glue for families. The physical connection of snuggling and reading together wires your child’s brain to associate being together and doing positive things with their parents as a way to express and receive love. The regular rhythm of reading with a parent at night creates strong connections.

School Readiness Starts Here

Programs like Reach Out and Read, used by pediatricians nationwide, have demonstrated that children who read to their parents at home arrive at school with stronger vocabulary, better focus, and increased confidence (Reach Out and Read). Teachers notice the difference quickly. Skipping bedtime reading, on the other hand, can leave kids behind. Without that exposure to language, some children start school already struggling to keep up.

What Happens When We Skip It?

It might not feel like a big deal to miss storytime once or twice—but over time, those missed nights add up.

Fewer words heard → smaller vocabulary
Less bonding time → weaker parent-child connection
More challenging transition to school → less confidence in the classroom

A recent survey found that only 41% of young parents read regularly to their kids, down from 64% a decade ago (Parents.com). Experts worry this trend could leave children less prepared for school and less motivated to read.

How to Make It Stick

Create a ritual — pair storytime with brushing teeth so it becomes automatic.
Use the library — the Pikes Peak Library District offers free story times, book bundles, and even curbside pickup, making it an excellent resource for fresh reads.
Keep it short — even 5–10 minutes makes a difference.
Let kids choose — empowering them to pick a book makes reading feel fun, not forced. The best book to read to your child is the one they’re excited about—even if it’s the same one for the tenth night in a row.

The Takeaway

Every bedtime story is more than just a cute tradition—it’s brain fuel, emotional bonding, and future school success all wrapped up in one. By reading each night, you’re giving your child the gift of words, imagination, and love. So tonight, before you turn off the lights in your Colorado Springs home, grab a book, cuddle up, and read. Ten minutes could change their tomorrow.

If you’d like to discuss a place at Creekside Kids for your kids, we invite you to click this embedded link to schedule an appointment. Let’s get to know each other! Like us on Facebook to follow our stories for news and updates. We’re located at 1201 W Cheyenne Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, and we can be reached at (719) 635-9111. Our new hours of operation are 6:45 a.m. until 5:45 p.m., Monday through Friday.

July 1, 2025 by Christopher Hooker

Teaching Kids About the Fourth of July, Patriotism, and Everyday Courage

Image created by ImageAI

As a child, did you ever experience an injustice or had someone use their size, age, or status to take something from you, or prevent you from taking your fair turn?

Fairness is an issue our co-learners at Creekside Kids protect as we work to ensure that all our kids know they have received fairness and, in turn, treat others with the same ethics and kindness.

As fireworks light up the sky this Fourth of July, we celebrate more than just a birthday. Independence Day is a chance to talk with our children about bravery, sacrifice, and the people who helped shape our nation—not just the names in history books but the everyday heroes walking among us.

From Capes to Courage: Superheroes and Real-Life Heroes

Kids love superheroes. From Spider-Man to Wonder Woman, these characters show courage, kindness, and a willingness to stand up for what’s right. But before there were superheroes in comics, there were real people who did heroic things—and they didn’t wear capes.

We’re living in an age where superheroes are celebrated and a massive part of our culture. On September 11th, 2001, Americans witnessed something so horrible and senseless, that we called back to a place where superheroes righted our wrongs, because we felt powerless in the enormity of the fall of the twin towers. We needed the superhero to right our wrongs at that moment. The legends of superheroes helped comfort us and give us a sense that someone, somewhere, would stand up for us.

Since then, the idea of the superhero has been the dominant genre on television and film. Culturally, we forgot that it’s the everyday person, the real person, who saves the day in this world, by standing up to aggression.

Talk to your children about:

Nathan Hale was a young schoolteacher who became a spy for the American colonies. When the British captured him, his final words were, “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”

Sybil Ludington, just 16 years old, rode twice as far as Paul Revere through the night to warn American troops that the British were coming. She wasn’t famous, but she was brave—and she acted when her country needed her.

Alexander Hamilton was an orphan who utilized his brilliant mind to contribute significantly to the Revolutionary War and helped shape the U.S. Constitution. He was very young, bold, and believed deeply in a better future.

Crispus Attucks, a free Black man, became the first person to die in the Boston Massacre. His courage made him the first casualty of the American Revolution—and a symbol of the cost of liberty.

John Paul Jones, a daring Navy commander who, in the middle of battle, shouted, “I have not yet begun to fight!” when asked to surrender. His bravery on the seas played a crucial role in helping America win its independence.

Even though most of these people were adults (many in their early 20’s), they didn’t have superpowers or immunity from prosecution or execution. They were ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances, who risked their fortune, their freedom, and their prosperity for the sake of others. And in the case of Sybil Luddington, she was still a child when she took an enormous risk for the liberty we enjoy today– showing that courage starts early.

Patriotism Isn’t Just Waving a Flag

Patriotism comes in many different forms, but it doesn’t mean blind obedience. The founders of our country were rebels who broke the laws of the British crown because they believed in something better: freedom, justice, and representation. They put these ideas down into a constitution, effectively declaring war on King George and the British empire. It’s important to teach our children that loving your country means wanting it to be its best self—even if that means standing up when something’s wrong.

Sometimes, what’s right isn’t easy. That’s what real patriotism is: choosing what helps others, even when it’s hard. And that can be as complex as election law or as simple as a snack extorted by a bigger child from a smaller child. The United States is a society where we value everyone and seek fairness for everyone, even if that means planting trees that we’ll never enjoy the shade of ourselves. Because our children are those trees, and they will need that shade someday.

Ordinary Heroes in Everyday Life

Today, we still have heroes—police officers who protect communities, firefighters who run into danger, EMTs who respond in emergencies, teachers who nurture minds, and neighbors who assist and care for us when no one is watching.

Ask your children:

Who are the helpers in our community?
What makes someone a hero?
What’s something that you don’t like about the world (litter is a concrete example) and how can you help fix it?

These questions help children understand that, while they may be small, their actions can have a significant impact on the world around them.

May 2, 2025 by Christopher Hooker

Cherishing Little Moments: Creating Meaningful Memories at the End of the School Year

Photo by Kristyna Squared.one on Unsplash

As the school year comes to a close, you may find yourself experiencing a bittersweet feeling. The year seems to have flown by! This is a wonderful time to breathe in the summertime ahead, celebrate accomplishments, and reflect on how much our children have grown since those first steps into their classroom months ago.

This season serves as a gentle reminder of the fleeting nature of time. Someday, the same child whose tiny hand you once held on the first day of school will be packing for college, moving out for their first job, or simply heading off to forge their own path—and you might find yourself wondering, “Where did the time go?”. The old saying is that ‘the days are long but the years are short’ is so true.

As parents and caregivers, handling these emotional moments is part of the beautiful journey of growing alongside our children. The end of the school year offers an exceptional opportunity to celebrate growth and create something tangible that helps preserve the memories we’re making along the way. For some of you, that begins in the coming school year as your child begins kindergarten; why not turn the tradition of cleaning out your child’s backpack into an annual ritual with purpose?

Turn Bookbag Clutter into Treasured Keepsakes

When your little one empties their backpack at the end of the school year, you’ll likely uncover a treasure trove of their year’s work: colorful drawings, crayon-filled worksheets, encouraging notes from teachers, and maybe even a few scribbled moments of creativity that only a child could bring to life. Instead of tossing these into the recycling bin, consider creating a scrapbook that captures your child’s early school days year by year.

Collect the highlights—the assignments that made them proud, the art showing their creativity blossoming, or even the moments that made you laugh. Include photos, if you can, like their first-day-of-school picture or snapshots from field trips and classroom parties. If you’re short on time, even collecting one or two special pieces each year can create a meaningful scrapbook by the time they graduate.

And you can start now– with the artwork your child produces here at Creekside Kids. Consider adding in photographs and locks of hair from their haircuts. This treasure trove you will transform as they transform, becoming an echo of how you experienced their childhood.

To make this process even sweeter, involve your child. For younger kiddos, let them tell you which drawings or projects they’re most proud of. Older children might even want to jot down a favorite memory to include. By working together, you’ll turn this end-of-year task into something much more meaningful: a celebration of their accomplishments and dreams and another ritual within the family as you put away the old school year and prepare for the new one. This ritual gives you a moment to reflect with your child on the things they have learned and who they are becoming in the course of their life.

A Gift for the Road Ahead

The beauty of this yearly ritual is that it puts both the past and future into perspective. When that moment arrives—years from now—and your child is ready to step into the next significant chapter of their life, you’ll already have a heartfelt gift to remind them how far they’ve come and how much you’ve cherished every step of the journey.

Imagine handing your child that scrapbook on the day they leave for college or perhaps on their graduation day. As they flip through pages filled with their younger self’s art, words, and triumphs, they’ll be reminded, in a very tangible way, of just how deeply loved and supported they’ve been all along.

Here’s a resource if you need a little help getting on step with scrapbooking: Easy Scrapbooking for the Busy Mom.

Taking Time to Soak It All In

It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life with seasons that come and go in a flurry. The end of the school year can serve as a quiet reminder to slow down, acknowledge how far your family has come together, and treasure the simple joys of childhood while they’re still unfolding. At Creekside Kids, we know that creating meaningful moments out of the everyday builds a foundation of love, curiosity, and connection that will last a lifetime.

The years may pass us by quickly, but by preserving memories and celebrating your child’s unique story, you’ll create a keepsake worth holding onto and giving away—and a tradition that reminds you both of the incredible journey you’re sharing. Here’s to another year of growth, joy, and endless possibilities. 💕

At Creekside Kids, we love celebrating these milestones with our community because we truly believe in the importance of building joyful, lasting memories for every family. If you’d like more ideas for creating traditions that matter or celebrating the little moments in your child’s early learning years, don’t hesitate to connect with us. We’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way!

April 2, 2025 by Christopher Hooker

Spring in the Springs

Image by Penny from Pixabay

Spring is here! After so many March snowstorms, it’s wonderful to see the green returning to Colorado Springs. With the return of spring comes a renewed sense of energy and the desire to get outside and enjoy the warm weather, especially for the young (and the young-at-heart).

April is the perfect month to celebrate spring’s return with various indoor and outdoor activities. Whether you’re looking to fly a kite, enjoy a park, or find fun things to do inside, there are plenty of options available. Here’s our quick guide to some Springtime fun in the Springs!

Celebrate Earth Day

Earth Day falls in April on the 25th, and serves as a great reminder for all of us to engage in environmentally friendly activities. You can create recycled art projects, start a compost bin, or simply discuss ways to be more eco-conscious. If you’re looking for a way to celebrate Earth Day, consider planting a tree. Trees provide shade and beauty, but they also help reduce air pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide. They also provide habitat for birds and other wildlife, and will grow with your child.

Outdoor Activities

Plant a Family Garden

Gardening is a rewarding way to spend time outdoors and celebrate the growth and renewal that spring represents. It’s also an excellent opportunity to teach kids about nature and responsibility, and the cycle of life. Some delicious veggies can be planted this early in the season– check out Rick’s Garden Center for a list of plants which can be planted in April.

Your family garden can be as simple as a few pots on the patio or as elaborate as an entire plot in your backyard. It’s up to you and your kids, but be advised: some living things require a great deal more attention than you might expect!

Here are some tips to get you started:

Choose a sunny spot with good drainage.
If you don’t have access to a garden, consider planting in containers instead.
Start small and add more plants as you gain experience.
Use organic soil amendments and fertilizers whenever possible.
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Have a Family Picnic

There are great parks all around Creekside Kids and Cheyenne Mountain where you and your kids can get a little taste of nature on the verge of civilization. The Canon School is closed on the weekends, but has a playground and field that can be used for a great picnic. North Cheyenne Cañon Park offers trails and wonderful waterfalls. For those looking for a little bit less civilization, the Stratton Open Space offers wide open prairies.

Go Fly a Kite!

April in Colorado Springs often brings consistent, moderate winds, making it ideal for kite flying. It’s a wonderful activity for both kids and adults to enjoy on a breezy day. And if you feel like making a kite as a family, there are plans for kites that are demure and mindful, and some that are bombastically huge (if you feel like attaching a GoPro to your kite).

Our neighborhood parks provide a great escape with open spaces for running, playing, and relaxing, giving you plenty of room to get the necessary running start with your kite.

Some recommended parks where kite flying is permitted include:

You might also be able to fly drones in these parks– but be sure to do your research on any requirements. We are near several military outposts, after all!

And don’t forget, Easter is April 20th, so when you and your kids are out, think about where you can hide the eggs this year!

Indoor Activities

Create Spring Crafts

When April showers keep you indoors, crafting is a fantastic way to keep the spring spirit alive. Create flower arrangements, birdhouses, or other spring-themed decorations[5]. Bake cookies and look at the recipes together to learn letters and numbers and the concepts associated with print.

Have an Indoor Picnic

If the weather isn’t cooperating, bring the fun inside with an indoor picnic. Spread a blanket on the floor, prepare some spring snacks, and enjoy a meal with the family indoors.

If you’d like to discuss a place at Creekside Kids for your kids, we invite you to click this embedded link to schedule an appointment. Let’s get to know each other! Like us on Facebook to follow our stories for news and updates. We’re located at 1201 W. Cheyenne Road, Colorado Springs, CO 80906, and we can be reached at (719) 635-9111. Our new hours of operation are 6:45 a.m. until 5:45 p.m., Monday through Friday.