Parents

All Parents Content

Child stacking blocks against an entertainment center in al living room.

Schema Play is Not Challenging When Understood

Schemas, or imaginative and repetitive play patterns, may seem challenging at first, but they help children make meaning of their world. By identifying and supporting schema behaviors, teachers and parents can turn frustration into growth and joy.

Mother and toddler doing a learning activity on a tablet computer.

Embracing Technology to Teach Early Literacy Skills

Research suggests that learning happens when children can use multiple senses, such as sight, sound, and touch. With technology, parents, caregivers, and educators can nurture reading skills in new, exciting ways!

Man reviewing insurance information with a social services agent.

SDSU Extension offers farm planning programs in Winner

October 15, 2025

South Dakota State University Extension will offer additional Whole Farm Planning workshops on Nov. 12 and 19, 2025, in Winner.

Teachers at a daycare instructing a group of children at various ages and stages.

Understanding Emotional Development

When kids are born, they are wired to feel emotions. It is important for adults to surround them with a caring and supportive environment to learn how to manage these emotions and have healthy relationships.

Mother holding two daughters outdoors in the countryside.

Outdoor Play is Educational

Getting kids outside to play and use their imagination is getting harder in our digital, screen-filled world. Using outdoor spaces and nature to create intentional learning opportunities is a great way to fulfill the need for kids to move and use their creative energy.

SDSU Extension Early Childhood Field Specialist Audrey Rider reading a book to a group of four children.

Children

Nationally, more than 60 percent of households are dual income, resulting in an increased need for early childhood education programming.

Mother and daughter packing backpack and brown lunch bag.

Getting Ready for School!

Where did summer go? Several schools are starting soon. By taking some proactive steps, you can set yourself up for a healthy, successful start to the new school year.

Two children dancing

Incorporate Music into Your Day!

Children of all ages love to sing, dance, and make their own music. Let them explore music through play and give them opportunities to familiarize themselves as they develop many different skills.

A young girl and boy playing with a STEM geometric building kit.

STEM Learning: Tips to Let Kids Tinker and Build

Tinkering, or the playful, open-ended exploration of materials without a specific end goal, is an important part of STEM learning. It involves problem solving, creativity, hands-on learning, and more.

A small group of children at daycare.

Childcare Survey Reports

Survey reports that aim to understand the current landscape of childcare in the state, focusing on availability, cost, quality, and impact on families and the economy.