How do I Encourage More Independent Play Without Entertaining my Child? Independent play isn’t something you do to  your child — it’s something you support . Children play independently when they feel connected, confident, and when their environment invites curiosity, exploration and innovation — not when adults step in to entertain or direct. Independent play isn’t encouraged through activities or constant adult involvement. It’s supported through a few key foundations that

If you’ve ever wondered why your child won’t play unless you’re right beside them, or if it’s even possible to encourage solo play without screens or constant entertainment, you’re not alone. This post breaks it down for you—what it is, why it matters, and how to make it a seamless, sustainable part of your day. Whether you're trying to get work done, fold a load of laundry, or just drink your coffee while it's hot, independent play can help—and it's rooted in research-backed

Toddler learning journals are popping up everywhere—on Pinterest boards, in parenting groups, and all over social media. They’re marketed as “keepsakes” or “tools to document learning,” but let’s be honest: they’re often more about adult expectations than actual child development. Here’s the truth: Learning journals are not developmentally necessary for toddlers and often shift focus away from play-based learning. Toddlers Aren’t Supposed to Show Their Learning in a Journal T

Let’s get straight to it: you don’t need worksheets, flashcards, or early academics to get your child ready for kindergarten. And you definitely don't need Ms. Rachel. What you need is independent play. As an early childhood expert with a master’s degree in ECE and two decades of experience working with young children, I can tell you that the best preparation for school doesn’t come from sitting and memorizing—it comes from the kind of open-ended, child-led play that happens

THE DAYS OF TRIPPING OVER JUNKY TOYS & BEING TRIGGERED BY TOY CLUTTER ARE OVER. Tell me something, sweet mama friend, do any of these sound like you? Your house has been taken over by toys, but your child doesn't play independently. You know that you have too many toys, but don't know where to start in the process of decluttering and organizing them. Birthdays and holidays bring on an influx of unwanted toys that end up taking up space in your home, but never get played with.

What is Loose Parts Play? Loose parts play has become a popular topic in early childhood development, and if you're wondering, "What is...

Raising an independent child involves creating opportunities for growth and self-discovery. In this post, learn how to foster independence.

What Are Open-Ended Toys and Why Are They the Best for Child Development? If you’ve ever heard the term “open-ended” when it comes to...

We’ve all been there. You’re trying to get dinner on the table or finish that one last work email, and it seems like handing over a...

Why Is Independent Play Important? As parents, we all want to provide the best environment for our children to thrive. While structured...

Dear Ms. Rachel (and fans), This letter isn’t a personal attack on you. I’m not a hater. Just an advocate, the same as you claim to be. I...

In a world brimming with screens and structured activities, nurturing a child's creativity has become more crucial than ever. Independent...

a tool for helping your kids learn financial literacy

istock/gettyimages Recent debate has come up over on my instagram account about whether or not it is appropriate to put a backpack leash...

The Disadvantages of Too Many Toys: Why Less is More I’ve spent a lot of time over the past few years sharing with parents and caregivers...

Y'all I've been trying to figure out the solution to toy storage for YEARS! As a mom of three and preschool owner, I've tried it all....

The desire for a space that is easy-to-maintain while also being aesthetically pleasing is very common when it comes to toys and kids...

The Holiday Season is upon us friends. And you know what that means. The BUSIEST time of the year is knocking on our doors. At the time...

My 40th birthday is just a couple of days away. I've spent more than half of my life working with young children. My first inkling that I...

Tis the season for gifting! Here comes the chaos. Well meaning friends and family members are always excited to buy our children gifts....