Blog – Sunny Days Learning Academy

How to Support Your Child’s Emotional Development During the Early Years

March 18, 2025 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

Emotional development is a crucial part of early childhood, laying the foundation for healthy relationships, self-awareness, and overall well-being. At Sunny Days Learning Academy, we emphasize social-emotional learning to help children develop the skills they need to understand and manage their emotions. As a parent or caregiver, you play a vital role in fostering emotional…

Practical Life Skills: Why They Matter and How to Teach Them

January 28, 2025 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

In the Montessori method, practical life activities are at the heart of early childhood education. These activities are designed to help children develop essential life skills, foster independence, and build confidence. At Sunny Days Learning Academy, we emphasize the importance of practical life skills as a cornerstone of our Montessori-inspired curriculum. In this article, we…

5 Signs Your Child is Ready for Preschool

January 21, 2025 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

The decision to enroll your child in preschool is a big step for both parents and children. It’s natural to wonder if your little one is ready for this new adventure. While every child develops at their own pace, there are key developmental milestones and readiness cues that can help you assess if your child…

How to Support Your Child’s Curiosity and Sense of Wonder at Home

January 14, 2025 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

Children are naturally curious, with an innate desire to explore, ask questions, and make sense of the world around them. As parents, fostering this curiosity can set the stage for lifelong learning and discovery. At Sunny Days Learning Academy, we see firsthand how curiosity drives learning and development, and we want to share practical ways…

We encourage children to perform simple tasks with confidence. Photo Credit: Flickr

Preparing for Kindergarten: How Montessori Builds a Strong Foundation

January 7, 2025 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

The transition to kindergarten marks a significant milestone in a child’s educational journey. For parents, ensuring their child is well-prepared academically, socially, and emotionally is a top priority. Montessori-inspired education, as practiced at Sunny Days Learning Academy, provides a holistic foundation that equips children with the skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.…

An Example of a Montessori Classroom. Photo Credit: Wikemedia Commons

The Montessori Method: Busting 7 Common Myths & Misconceptions

December 31, 2024 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

The Montessori method has been celebrated for over a century as a revolutionary approach to early childhood education. Yet, despite its proven success, misconceptions about Montessori education persist. From misunderstandings about classroom structure to myths about academic rigor, these misconceptions can sometimes deter parents from exploring this enriching learning model. At Sunny Days Learning Academy,…

The Benefits of Mixed-Age Classrooms in Early Childhood Education

December 24, 2024 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

In a world where traditional education often organizes children by age, Montessori education stands out with its innovative mixed-age classroom approach. This unique model groups children of varying ages—in the case of Sunny Days Learning Academy, children ages 3 to 5—in the same learning environment. Mixed-age classrooms are a cornerstone of the Montessori philosophy, offering…

Creating A Montessori-Style Learning Space At Home

December 17, 2024 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

Setting up a Montessori-style learning space at home can be a wonderful way to encourage children’s independence, creativity, and self-directed learning. Inspired by the Montessori principles we use at Sunny Days Learning Academy in Boise, Idaho, a Montessori-inspired environment focuses on giving children the freedom to explore and learn at their own pace within a…

How to Foster Independence in Young Children at Home

December 10, 2024 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

Fostering independence is one of the most impactful ways parents can support their child’s growth, confidence, and resilience. When children are given the opportunity to do things for themselves, they develop problem-solving skills, patience, and self-discipline. In a Montessori environment like Sunny Days Learning Academy in Boise, Idaho, independence is a core principle woven into…

Why Nature Play Is Essential To Early Childhood Development

December 3, 2024 by Sunny Days Learning Academy

In today’s world, where screen time and structured activities fill so much of a child’s day, nature play offers a refreshing and essential opportunity for young children to explore, learn, and grow. Spending time in nature benefits children in profound ways—enhancing their physical, emotional, and cognitive development while fostering a connection to the environment. At…