Back-to-School is Quickly Approaching: Is Your Child Ready?
By: Sinziana Luchian; Marketing Intern 
As we enter into the Month of August, our Starfish staff has already started preparing for the new school year. August is known as Back-to-School Month; also as Getting Your Child Ready for Kindergarten Month, two very important topics. We would like to share some tips that may make the transition to the new school year a little easier.
Important back-to-school tips:
- Meet your child’s teachers; children always fear not liking or connecting with their new teachers, this is a great way to ease those fears before the school year begins.
- Tour the school; if your school hosts an open house event, make sure to go. This will be a great opportunity for both the parents and children to become familiar with the classrooms, playground and surrounding areas.
- Make back to school shopping a priority early this month; obtain the class supply lists and take special shopping trips with your child. This will not only make them excited to start the new school year but they will feel prepared and ready to learn!
- Ease into the routine; switching from a summer to school schedule can be stressful for everyone in the household. Start practicing the back to school routine a few days early. Routines make children feel comfortable and their first day back will be a breeze if they know what to expect early on.
- Create a buddy system; contact the parents of your child’s friends from the prior year. Find out if there are any friends, relatives or neighbors in your child’s classroom. Starting school with a known buddy is always easier for children.
The transition from summer to the new school year can be a tough period for children. Early preparations and planning ahead can make this time of year not as hectic for parents and children. As always, we are looking forward to another exciting school year filled with amazing memories for our Starfish kids!
Meet Erma: Our Lovable Furry Friend
By: Sinziana Luchian; Marketing Intern
Our Early Head Start children received a surprise visit from Erma, the adorable service pup. Our kids were overjoyed while interacting with their new furry friend. Service dogs can be used for a variety of reasons: from providing assistance to those in need, to also alleviating stress and creating a sense of ease in the environment.
Erma is a darling, gentle dog, that always maintains a laid back composure. She is extremely fond of children and enjoys yummy treats as well as behind the ear scratches. She is also very talented when it comes to completing obstacle courses.
Our little ones had a great time on their play date with Erma. The new friends enjoyed each other’s company throughout the morning hours. The kids sat by Erma’s side on the playground, she was cheered on by three little girls as she faced the slide set obstacle course, and later received delicious treats from her new companions. It was an overall action packed day at Hiveley; it wouldn’t have been possible without Erma’s warm spirit.
MOMMY & ME YOGA: Join Us Next Time!
By: Sinziana Luchian; Marketing Intern
Starfish has been fortunate to have Courtney Conover teach MOMMY & ME YOGA classes at our Hiveley location. This week Courtney put on another great class, which resulted in an amazing outcome once again! The moms who attended, truly experienced the benefits of the spiritual art of yoga. The little ones had an enjoyable time as well, practicing various poses along with their moms.
Courtney is very committed to her practice and teaching others about the wonderful advantages that yoga can provide. This practice is not only beneficial to the body by increasing strength and relaxing the muscles, but most importantly, it works miracles for the mind and soul. Courtney’s passion resides in teaching children how to utilize the power of Yoga to deal with daily emotions. Children can benefit tremendously by simply learning how to control their breathing, an important aspect in yoga. The practice of yoga helps children relieve anxiety and stress; as well as reduces tantrums, all while the kids are having fun and staying engaged!
Courtney’s passion and dedication towards the mommies and their babies is truly remarkable. Have you ever wondered about yoga and the benefits it can provide for you and your child? There is absolutely no prior experience necessary, all beginner mommies and babies/children are welcome! Stay tuned for more information regarding future MOMMY & ME YOGA classes and come join us for fun and relaxation!
In the meantime, check out our awesome pictures from the last class :-).
Fun in the Sun with the ELC
By: Hannah Chin; Community Outreach Coordinator
It has been a busy summer season for our Starfish families. We had a great week of camp in June and are eagerly preparing for our camp in July!
In a bid to promote healthy living, the Starfish Early Learning Communities (ELC) introduced new Mommy & Me Yoga classes on Mondays, as well as a Walking Club on Wednesdays. Not only has it been fun, we have loved getting a chance to exercise and socialize with our awesome families.
This past Friday our families visited the Detroit Zoo where we had the chance to see all kinds of animals! We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves! We genuinely love being able to see parents and their children enjoy themselves and build lasting and cherished memories. It’s the reason why we do what we do!
For more information about any of our events, visit the ELC on Facebook or on Instagram!