The Goddard School

Yesterday, we announced the introduction of our exclusive inquiry-based education program, Wonder of Learning™. To complement the program and help all families encourage curiosity at home, we published our very first children’s book, “Curious Blueberry the Carousel Horse!” Written by award-winning author Steve Metzger and illustrated by Bruno Robert, the book follows the journey of Blueberry the Carousel Horse and her colorful carousel animal friends who learn to find joy through curiosity and questions. Throughout this interactive story are cues for the reader to ask open-ended questions, enabling an engaging and individualized experience for each child. In addition, the book features actionable tips for families to practice inquiry-based learning throughout their daily lives.   “Curious Blueberry the Carousel Horse” is available to purchase here: https://lnkd.in/e-mdUzg2.

Today, we are thrilled to introduce our exclusive inquiry-based education program, Wonder of Learning™! Building upon our play-based F.L.EX. (Fun Learning Experience) framework and 36 years of experience with child-centered learning, this innovative program embraces how children learn best—through their innate curiosity—because research confirms that when wonder leads, learning follows. To learn more about Wonder of Learning and the impact it will have on everyone in the Goddard ecosystem, from franchisees and faculty to families and children, check out our announcement press release: https://lnkd.in/evNe_pGN.

Our chairman & CEO, Dennis R. Maple, joined Adam Contos for another insightful and inspiring conversation about leadership. Check out this new Start With a Win episode on YouTube or any podcasting platform.

Nearly every parent believes play is important for their child’s overall growth and development, according to a survey we recently conducted. The average child spends about 10 hours playing with their parents, others and on their own on any given day, but three-quarters of parents believe that isn’t enough and want their child to spend more time engaging in creative, free play time. “Young children are naturally curious, and it’s imperative to nurture this curiosity to help them develop socially, emotionally and academically,” said Dr. Lauren Loquasto, our chief academic officer. “To do this, parents, caregivers and educators can ensure the children in their care are consistently engaging in creative play and exploring their interests through questions, experimentation and experiences.”  To learn more, check out all of the survey’s findings here: https://lnkd.in/ec9Ru6kD

Parents preparing to send their infant or toddler to a childcare provider for the first time might be feeling uncertain or anxious. In this Consumer Reports article, Dr. Lauren Loquasto, our chief academic officer, shares guidance for parents to help ease the transition. 

One of the greatest joys of being a parent is watching children learn, grow and discover. Using playtime to create a supportive environment and gently guiding children as they lean into their natural curiosity is a proven way to help them learn and enable their creative talents to flourish. Leisa Byars, co-owner of four Goddard Schools in Tennessee, including the recently opened Goddard School of Brentwood, joined Nashville’s WKRN News 2 to share some activities that parents can try at home to spark their child’s imagination and foster their creativity. 

In this ever-changing world, is your preschool doing enough to fully prepare your child for the future? Join us on July 31 at 1 PM ET for a free Parenting with Goddard webinar about how cutting-edge early childhood education can robustly prepare your child for the world they live in today and the world of tomorrow. This live event will be an engaging and exciting discussion about the future of education and how The Goddard School can set your child up for success. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gnbqDbjY

Bill and Wendy Kim, owners of The Goddard School of Ramsey, NJ, and The Goddard School of Paramus, NJ, have been recognized by Franchise Business Review as 2024 Franchise Rock Stars. The Kims were honored in the Family-Owned category and chosen from hundreds of nominations.   “We are truly thankful and honored to be named Franchise Rock Stars by Franchise Business Review and proud to represent The Goddard School brand,” said the Kims. “We thank our incredible faculty and staff, our families and our students for allowing us to do what we love every day—providing the highest quality care and early childhood education for our community.”   Congratulations, Bill and Wendy! Learn more about this accolade here: https://lnkd.in/e8bGJyfA

The Goddard School of Brentwood, TN, is now open! This is the first location for co-owners Brian and Marie Hairston. The Hairstons are partnering with seasoned Goddard School franchisees Leisa Byars and Del McSpadden, who also own The Goddard School of Hendersonville, The Goddard School of Gallatin and The Goddard School of Murfreesboro, with another school in development at the Nashville Yards campus in downtown Nashville. “We are thrilled to bring the Goddard experience to Brentwood and the surrounding communities where there is such a need for high-quality early childhood education,” said Marie. “Our mission is to offer peace of mind for working parents by ensuring their children are in a safe, nurturing environment where they can develop socially, emotionally and academically.” 

Are you planning a family trip to see grandparents this summer? If you are, be sure to check out this Psychology Today article by Dr. Kyle Pruett, a member of our Educational Advisory Board. As Dr. Pruett shares, by being proactive, parents can limit stress and make the most of grandparent visits. https://lnkd.in/dwGJwmYq