If you think that your child is not meeting their developmental milestones or if you’re concerned that there may be an issue regarding your child’s development make an appointment with your pediatrician to discuss your concerns. Ask your pediatrician for a developmental screener, or if you want to come prepared, you can download the […]
While you may know that Sparkler offers free developmental screens for children 0-5 years old and over 2000 off screen play activities for children, but did you know that Sparkler also offers expecting families prenatal support and tips? From the first Trimester expectant parents can engage in an abundance of prenatal activities and learn […]
Spending quality time together is a valuable gift that strengthens family bonds and fosters belonging and security. Research shows that strong family connections lead to higher well-being in children, better behavior, enhanced academic performance, and improved parent-child communication. Healthy relationships are key indicators of a child’s happiness, and intentional effort is often needed to nurture […]
IEP’s and 504 plans both support students with disabilities, however how they do this differs. What is an IEP? An IEP is a formal document that outlines the unique needs of a student with one or more of the 13 disability categories identified by the IDEA (Individuals With Disabilities Act). The development of […]
What is “Mental Load” Mental load refers to the unseen mental and emotional effort that is needed to manage the household, ensuring it runs as smoothly as possible. This includes: planning what’s needed for groceries, paying bills, meeting the needs of your children and spouse as well as managing your own work load. […]
If you’re a new parent or soon-to-be parent, or even if you been a parent for a while you may often get unsolicited parenting advice from those with or without kids. While their “advice” may be based on good intentions, it often times comes across as “you’re not parenting right, this is how you should do […]
Finding nutritious food that your children will actually enjoy can be a challenge, especially when dealing with sensory seekers or avoiders. How many times have you packed a lunch for your child, only to discover it went untouched, or prepared a healthy meal, only to have them ask for a snack instead? This scenario can […]
Often the terms “Early Head Start” and “Head Start” are used interchangeably; however, these are two completely different programs. Both serve families with young children who meet income guidelines, both programs are geared towards early learning. Though there are some distinct differences between the two, Early Head Start (EHS) EHS is a […]
Pediatrician’s will screen children using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ) at the 9 month, 18 month and 36 month appointments. The ASQ will determine if there is a potential for a developmental delay in 5 different developmental domains (Communication, Fine Motor, Gross Motor, Personal Social and Problem Solving); if the pediatrician identifies a potential […]
Why is it that you can be surrounded by your children and partner, but still feel so alone and isolated? Why do we as parents feel like we are all alone and why do we have this profound nagging guilt for feeling that way? If this resonates with you, you are not alone; not […]
