This month, we celebrate Music in our Schools month. If you've ever observed a child reacting to music by singing along, creating new melodies, moving their bodies, or starting a group dance with other children, you've witnessed music's powerful effect on children. From the moment a child is born, their brains develop at an unbelievable speed. Children's neurons develop by the millions, and they are constantly seeking information and material to fuel their cognitive growth. Through words and...

Topics: child development

Next week, we enter Sleep Awareness Week. What better time to discuss the significance of sleep on children’s health and well-being? Children need different amounts of sleep at different ages. A good night’s sleep is essential for developing minds. When children sleep well, they are better learners and more attentive students. Healthy sleep promotes a positive attitude, improved attention, a better memory, and more energy for physical activity.

Today is Read Across America Day, an important touchstone that helps us reflect on the importance of books in children’s lives. Reading is a foundational practice that children can start to do independently by age seven or eight. Beyond these years, reading skills are important to a child’s ability to succeed in school and throughout their lives. In our view, it is never too early to start building a healthy relationship between children and books and to pique their interest early in the...

Topics: Read Across America

Topics: eating disorder

Topics: mental health awareness

This month, we honor Black History Month, a time to celebrate the achievements of Black people throughout history in the United States and beyond. At Maryvale, we believe in the power and promise of offering a culturally responsive celebration of Black History Month, encouraging children and families of all cultures and ethnicities to embrace the history that celebrates all types of people – especially those who are often excluded from core cultural narratives. 

Topics: Black History Month

Topics: Homelessness

Staying motivated and productive can be challenging for people of all ages, no matter the circumstances. For children, motivation is a key element to developing self-reliance and the ability to handle life’s challenges with confidence and autonomy. Motivation is defined as the force that drives people to perform a task. Basic tasks like brushing teeth or eating breakfast may feel simple until motivation is lacking. It is important for young children to understand what motivates them and tap...

Topics: Healthy Learning

Topics: Cyber Bullying