Creekside Kids

(719) 635-9111

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Another Swimming Summer!


Image by Pexels from Pixabay

Staying Safe in Summer Sun And Fun

With the sun shining bright and the gentle breeze singing through the trees, it feels like the perfect time to chat about one of our favorite summer pastimes — swimming! Whether it’s in a twinkling pool, a serene lake, or the sparkling sea, there’s nothing like seeing our little ones’ eyes light up with joy as they splash around.

Do you remember our June 2023 discussion in “Teaching Your Kids about Swimming & Dangers“? We talked about the importance of water wisdom. Let’s dive a bit deeper and sprinkle a little safety magic for an unforgettable and secure swimming season! 

Prep

Before those tiny toes touch the water, make sure you’re all set with the essentials:

Life Jackets: For our pint-sized swimmers moving into deeper waters or boating, a properly fitting life jacket is a must. The type which holds the head up in case one is unconscious is best.

Water-Wings: A great fit for water play is water wings, to keep their heads above water at all times without being too constrictive.

Sunscreen and Hats: Keep that delicate skin shielded from the UVA/UVB rays with a high SPF sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats.  Even cloudy days need sunscreen as UV rays still penetrate clouds at about 90% of normal on a sunny day.  Did you know that SPF is to help you determine how long you can be in the sun without burning or needing to reapply?   Fair skinned person such as this writer will start burning in 15 minutes so SPF 30 means that under ideal circumstances–thick application, no sweating or water exposure, I can stay out in the sun for up to 30 times longer than my normal 15 minutes before burning.  But, be careful—that’s only under perfect laboratory conditions.  This writer cuts that time in half to account for human and environmental error.

How to Determine Which SPF to Use:  https://www.science.org.au/curious/people-medicine/what-does-spf-rating-really-mean#:~:text=To%20get%20the%20SPF%20number,there%20is%20no%20sunscreen%20applied.

Safe Splashing Tips

Now that we’re dressed for success, let’s make sure our water play is as safe as it is fun:

Always Keep Eyes on the Prize: And by prize, we mean our adorable aquanauts! Continuous supervision and communication is key. It only takes a moment for water play to turn into worry, so let’s keep our eyes on the fun. Avoid distracting conversations or media.

Teach the Basics: Many of you already knew this, but a few more follow the tips we gave in “Teaching Your Kids about Swimming & Dangers”. Reinforce these lessons: no running near the pool, and always ask for permission before diving into the pool.

Set Boundaries: Make sure your child knows where they can and cannot swim. Setting physical or imaginary lines can work wonders for keeping them safe and sets rules that are part of the fun.

Keep the Water Clean and Clear: Ensure the swimming spot is free of hazards. Clear water means better visibility, not just for finding exciting sea creatures, but for keeping an eye on our swimmers too! Consider a brightly colored swimsuit as soft colors–especially pink/tan/beige can look like sand colors and do not show in deeper water.  Whn searching for a missing swimmer, bright colors are very helpful.   If you’re in a common swimming area, make sure your kids wash any toy they bring into the water.

Learn the Signs of Struggle: Sometimes kids don’t splash or yell when in trouble. They might just look like they’re silently trying to climb a ladder. Drowning and dry drowning do NOT look like what we see in the movies.  Recognizing these signs can lead to a quick and calm response. 

Be Emergency Ready

In case of a “just in case”, make sure you’re prepared:

Learn CPR: This is a wonderful skill, regardless of the season. You might never need it, but if you do, it could be a lifesaver. The American Red Cross offers training and certifications.

Have a First-Aid Kit: A prepared parent is a confident parent. Have it handy for those unexpected slips and trips. Bandages, antiseptic wash, and of course, sunburn lotion are smart items to include in a swim first aid kit.

Making Every Splash Count

Create beautiful memories by integrating fun and educational swimming games. How about a treasure hunt for waterproof toys or a floating ring toss? Not only will these games keep their minds and bodies engaged, they’ll reinforce swimming skills and safety measures! With a little bit of prep and preparedness, we can ensure that every splash comes with a smile. Let’s relish this radiant season by making each swimming day sunny, safe, and super!

Let’s keep our community conversations bubbling up! If you’ve got more tips, stories, or a little underwater photo you’d like to share, dive into our comment section. We’d love to keep “swimming” in this wonderful conversation with all of you! 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.

 

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The Importance of Speaking Your Child’s Individual Love Language

Photo by Juliane Liebermann on Unsplash

Hello, Creekside families! Since February, we’ve been thinking about the way we express love, to each other and to our kids. It’s all about the precious love languages of our little ones and how it may differ from the embrace we’re ready to give them. Are you intrigued? Let’s hop into this cozy puddle of love and understanding together.

The Chatterbox Language

Did you know that our tiny tots may have a different love language from us adults? Feeling loved is an essential part of every child’s early years, and even more so when they step into the world of preschool! Straddling two worlds–home and school is a big step and children need to feel loved in both places.  Some of our little chicks find comfort in words of affirmation and assurance.  Listening and responding to their imaginative stories, even those about purple monkeys on the moon, shows our interest in them as individuals and validates their emotions.

On the flip side, grown-ups may be conditioned to show love through acts of service (like preparing their favorite meal) which leaves them wondering, “Why doesn’t my child appreciate this?” But rest assured, they do! It’s just that their little hearts may feel extra loved when we invest time in their fanciful tales, endless questions and rambling thoughts.

Physical Affection: A Toddlers’ Love-Language

Let’s get physical, shall we? No, not the gym! We’re talking about good old cuddles and tickles! For our lovable mischief-makers, physical touch such as a warm bear hug or gentle hair ruffle might speak volumes more than the coolest new toy. For them, that touch may be their love language providing strong feelings of affection. Sometimes the best way to bridge the love language gap between parents and preschoolers is simply by dedicating time for a giggle-filled tickle session!  Children who crave more back rubs, hugs and snuggles than their siblings are often filling their emotional bucket with those touches.

Quality Time That Adds Up

Here’s our favorite nugget of wisdom – spending time is the quintessential love language of our little ones. Be it baking a yummy batch of cookies, reading their favorite story for the umpteenth time, or making a tower out of those stubborn blocks, the memory of being together is the best gift we can give them. When we break down our day to the moment, every second of shared laughter with our kiddos is precious.  Many young ones just like doing things with a parent—even “helping” with chores which builds self esteem.

In a Nutshell

Understanding your child’s love language can be like peeking into their little hearts. It teaches us that love can find its expression in the simplest of ways – a listened story, a shared laughter, a returned hug. But remember, dear families, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to love languages. Each child is a unique little package of love, ready to be unwrapped in their sweet time!  By responding to your child’s individual love language(s), you are filling their emotional bucket which helps them through hard times later on.

Living and learning about these love languages with our children not only brings us closer to them but also helps us grow alongside them. Let’s continue to nurture this understanding, in turn, nurturing their little minds and hearts in the warmest way possible.  

At Creekside Kids, we believe in playful learning, safety, and community. Share your skiing adventure stories with us in the comments below – we can’t wait to hear about your little one’s first skiing triumphs! 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.

 

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Spring into Fun: March Adventures for Creekside Kids

Photo by Юлія Дубина on Unsplash

On the back of 2024’s first snowstorm, spring has finally sprung. New adventures are waiting right around the corner, in Colorado Springs. It’s that time of year when everything seems to start anew. And what could be better than discovering all the excitement this spring season brings with your little ones– sharing that discovery time with them? From feeling the fresh grass under their tiny toes to learning about those tiny leaf buds on the trees and bushes, every moment is a chance for hands-on learning and growth. 

So why wait? Spring Break is here, and there’s lots to do in our area. Buckle up, we’re going on a Spring venture.

Adventure 1: Visit the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

Ever heard an elephant trumpet or watched a giraffe eat its lunch? The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo is just the place to let your little Peppy Parrots, Kindly Koalas, and Curious Cats experience these and so much more! This is not only a day of fun but also an opportunity to foster their love for animals and teach lessons about conservation. Don’t forget to take the Sky Ride for an astonishing aerial view of the zoo!

Adventure 2: Treasure Hunt at Garden of the Gods 

A spring snowstorm makes the Garden of the Gods even more magical. Create a nature-inspired treasure hunt or a simple scavenger list. Help them look for things like heart-shaped rocks, rainbow-colored leaves, or little critters. This activity will open their eyes to the beauty of nature right under their noses – and maybe yours too!

Adventure 3: Ride the Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway

All aboard! How about an enchanting train ride? The Broadmoor Pikes Peak Cog Railway is definitely a journey for the little choo-choo train lovers. They’ll gaze at budding trees, deep snow banks and may get glimpses of wildlife all the while learning about this historic railway. Don’t forget those high altitude donuts! Tickets are available now.

Adventure 4: Storytime at Manitou Springs Public Library

Slide into the magical world of literature with the Manitou Springs Public Library’s storytime sessions. These sessions will transfer your kids to enchanted worlds, inspiring future astronauts, adventurers, and artists. Plus, it’s a great way to help them meet new friends!

Adventure 5: Share the Fun at the Manitou Springs Penny Arcade

Are you ready to sprinkle a little magic into your afternoon with a trip that’s as colorful and lively as a crayon box? Imagine a place where the music of laughter fills the air, and twinkling lights guide you through a wonderland of fun. That’s right, we’re talking about an enchanting afternoon at the Manitou Springs Arcade! 🕹

This isn’t just any arcade—it’s a treasure trove of joy for our pint-sized explorers and their biggest fans (that’s you, dear parents!). Including a penny arcade, bumper cars, and an old-fashioned carousel. Play-based learning is at the heart of what we cherish here at Creekside Kids. It’s about seeing your child’s eyes light up with wonder while they unknowingly pick up valuable skills, from physical coordination to social interaction.

Spring certainly breathes new life into us all, especially for our growing little adventurers. Each activity is a memory made, a smile formed, and an opportunity for hands-on learning. We can’t wait to hear about your family’s springtime adventures! As always, don’t forget a hearty dose of sunscreen and a side of laughter. Here’s to creating beautiful spring memories in Colorado Springs with your preschoolers. 

At Creekside Kids, we believe in playful learning, safety, and community. Share your skiing adventure stories with us in the comments below – we can’t wait to hear about your little one’s first skiing triumphs! 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.

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Shredding the Slopes with Confidence

Photo by Fredrik Solli Wandem on Unsplash

Wintertime in Colorado Springs is for Snow Sports!

January through March are typically the snowiest months in Colorado. At best, it conjures images of nights in, with snuggles, books and games and cocoa; at worst, traffic delays, and shoveling. But for those adventurous parents and snow-loving families, a suitable powder means a superior skiing experience! Is it time for you and your family to hit the slopes this winter?

As we imagine a trip to Breckenridge or the more affordable Monarch Mountain with your children, we think only about the perfect scenario: the sparkling snow, the giggles echoing through the crisp air, and your little ones gliding down the mountainside with joyful abandon. But that’s a fantasy. Let’s talk about the reality and how you can introduce skiing to your children in a low stress way. 

The First Time is Not a Time for D.I.Y.

When planning a trip to the ski slopes, remember that you are not there just for your children– you’re there for your own exhilarating thrills. You deserve to have a good experience. Your kids deserve to learn skiing from someone who can be patient with their mistakes and firm with their behavior without spoiling the trip for the family. Let’s dive into why choosing a ski instructor is often the way to go for preschool-age children. 

The secret ingredient to make a skiing trip an absolute blast is to invest in a ski instructor or a learning program offered by the resorts in our area. As parents, we have enough on our plates without adding the stress of teaching skiing to our children. Choosing a ski instructor means you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the joy of skiing on your own while your child is with new little buddies and by a very patient professional.  Then later that day, you can ski alongside your child when they can say, “Look at meeeeee!”  

 Leave the instructions to the pros so you can enjoy those precious moments together. Plus, who doesn’t love bonding over hot cocoa breaks and cheering on your little one’s progress with other skiing families?

Some parents have the patience to teach their child to ski—and we sincerely applaud them.  The key to a D.I.Y. approach is to be very sure the child is as comfortable, well rested and well fed as possible.  Those WONDERFUL hand and toe warmers are lifesavers and as parents, ourselves, we learned to proactively put them in boots and gloves (after they were pre-warmed for about 30 minutes).  You can always pull them out if the child is too warm but icy toes hurt and ruin a ski experience.

Find out if your child even needs a ski pass to work on the basics on the first day–they may not even make it on a lift the first few times.  Sometimes just cruising 50 feet or more on the base of the bunny slope is all a child needs to become confident and then willing to try the slopes or a lesson.  One GREAT tip is to keep videoing your child and then play the videos for them over the summer and fall to psych them up for the next season.  It significantly improves confidence!

Don’t forget that different harnesses provide different levels of support and an edgie-wedgie is incredibly helpful to keep skis tips from crossing.  Some people harness the skis for improved balance rather than use a chest harness on the child.  Consult your local ski shop for tips!

It Doesn’t Have To Be Skis

You and the kids are there to have fun. Balance issues, fear of falling, anxiety over failures, or a general aversion to skis are all possible reasons your child may decide that skiing is not the sport for them. But why demand they learn skiing when snowboarding, cross country skiing, and sledding are readily available? Or, just playing in the snow? If a child doesn’t want to embrace skiing, instead of trying to overcome their fears, try understanding their fears and giving them the room they need to grow beyond those fears.  This is a time for a trained instructor.

Safety First, Always

As much as we want to be there for every milestone of our little ones, skiing requires specialized skills to ensure safety on the slopes, and you want the most experienced guides possible to take a hand when it comes to educating your child. Ski instructors are trained professionals and experienced in guiding children through the basics of skiing. From helmet fittings to emphasizing the importance of proper equipment, they go the extra mile to create a safe and secure environment for our kiddos. With a ski instructor by their side, we can rest easy knowing that our child’s safety is their top priority.

Expertise Tailored for Younger Kids

Teaching a child to ski is quite a different ballgame than training an adult. Ski instructors have a deep understanding of early childhood development and know how to engage and motivate little skiers without pressuring them to comply because of the financial commitment of the course. Instructors use engaging games, playful techniques, and a sprinkle of charm to make learning to ski an exciting adventure. With their expertise in child-friendly techniques, ski instructors ensure your child’s skiing journey is filled with fun, progress, and a sense of achievement.

Skiing is not just about gliding down the mountain; it’s also about building confidence and forming lasting friendships. By learning and exploring with peers, your child will forge friendships that will make their skiing journey even more magical.

Many of the resorts in our area have ski programs. Breckenridge and Keystone have programs for ages 3 to 14. Monarch has a wonderful program meant exclusively for children ages 3 to 6. As you plan your child’s first skiing adventure, remember that a ski program is great for an unforgettable and safe experience. Let’s celebrate the joy of skiing and cherish these magical family memories together in the most fun and stress-free way possible.

At Creekside Kids, we believe in playful learning, safety, and community. Share your skiing adventure stories with us in the comments below – we can’t wait to hear about your little one’s first skiing triumphs! 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.

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Great Toys for Girls and Boys


Photo by luis arias on Unsplash

 

HAPPY THANKSGIVING 2023! As we feast with our extended families today and pay tribute to the many blessings in our lives, our children are already eyeing the signs of the coming holidays. 

Even as we enjoy building sweet memories and honoring our traditions, most of us are bracing for tomorrow’s building pressures and excitements, otherwise known as Black Friday. Our kids don’t understand this complicated set of joys and heartaches yet, but someday, they’ll be right where you are, trying to show their immeasurable love to their child and hoping not to disappoint them when gift-giving for the holidays.

One significant caveat to remember is that the early childhood years are crucial for building rituals, rhythms, and relationships over getting a lot of toys. The neural development related to close connections through cooking, taking walks, raking leaves, snuggling, and reading together will reverberate through their lives for years to come. Not all gifts are tangible and cast in plastic; the gift of time and love is what children most crave.

As caregivers at Creekside Kids, parents often ask us for advice on great seasonal gift ideas. We always strive to provide our children with entertaining toys that promote their learning and development. That’s why, ahead of Black Friday, we’ve compiled a list of holiday gifts that meet the Reggio Emilia standards, a child-centered approach to education that emphasizes creativity, self-expression, and discovery.

Toys from national retailers such as Fat Brain Toys, Montessori Toys, Hearthsong Toys, Smiling Tree Toys, and A Toy Garden are a great place to start when looking for Reggio Emilia-inspired gifts. These brands offer various toys and games that foster creativity, imaginative play, and hands-on learning.

Glow-In-The-Dark Clock Puzzle: We particularly love Fat Brain Toys’ Glow-In-The-Dark Clock Puzzle. The puzzle features a beautiful clock illustration and its components, including hands, numbers, and mechanisms. The pieces are made from wood and have a smooth finish that’s easy for little hands to grasp. It also comes with an activity guide showing kids how to construct their clocks using puzzle pieces. This would be perfect for kids who love exploring how things work or those who want to learn more about timekeeping.

Magnetic Maze: Montessori Generation has a wonderful Magnetic Maze puzzle in the shape of various animals that helps children use logic and coordination to resolve a problem. (In particular, we’re fans of the monkey puzzle!)

HugglePod Deluxe Canvas Hanging Chair – If you can’t build a tree fort where you live but have some trees to call your own, Hearthsong Toys’ HugglePod Deluxe Canvas Hanging Chair provides kids with their own little fort off the ground! It’s a cozy, calming space for children to curl up with a good book, with the sun warming them inside. Sturdy and rugged, the HugglePod can withstand the weather– but don’t leave it out in a windstorm.

Spell Well Name Puzzle – Smiling Tree Toys offers this beautiful, personalized name puzzle. Made of high-quality solid wood with rounded corners and beautifully colored letters, the name puzzle is a perfect way to help your child learn their name while also having fun! The letters are big enough for small hands to handle easily.

Cork Boat Kit: We’re big fans of A Toy Garden’s Cork Boat Kit. The craft is easy enough for kids to do on their own, and the finished product is a sturdy little rowboat that will float in any water-filled container. The kit has everything you need: cork pieces, paints, brushes, and more.

In Colorado Springs, we are lucky to have some fantastic local toy sellers who share our commitment to child-centered learning. Little Richard’s Toy Store is an excellent option for wooden toys and games that promote imaginative play. We love their selection of play kitchens and dollhouses, providing a fun and engaging environment for children to act out their stories and scenarios. Discovery Toys is an alternative that inspires excellent creativity and problem-solving and is a bit more science-based. Our local partner at Discovery Toys is Joyce Stoffey, an expert on their line of educational toys.

Whether shopping at a national retailer or exploring your local toy stores, remember to look for gifts that inspire your child’s imagination, creativity, and love for learning. Happy holidays and happy shopping!

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.

Location & Hours

creekside building
1201 W Cheyenne Rd
Colorado Springs, CO 80906  
 
6:30 am - 5:45 pm
Monday - Friday
(719) 635-9111

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Alliance for Kids
Blue Skies Exploration Academy
Cheyenne Mountain School District
It's Fundamental
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Testimonials

Thank you for the wonderful two years at Creekside. We have always felt safe and secure and have enj… Read more
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