Parenting Resources

Young children playing on a colorful playground during outdoor playtime.

Benefits of Outdoor Play for Young Children in Childcare

Parenting Resources /

Daily outdoor play does far more than burn energy,it builds stronger bodies, calmer minds, richer friendships, and better sleep. This guide explores the physical, mental, social, and cognitive benefits of outdoor play for children from infancy through school age, and shows how Mary Margaret Childcare and Learning Center weaves it into daily routines across nine St. Louis–area locations.

Benefits of Outdoor Play for Young Children in Childcare Read More »

Classroom chalkboard showing daily rules, weather, letters, and schedule activities.

How a Structured Childcare Schedule Helps Children Feel Confident

Parenting Resources /

Predictable daily routines help children feel safe, calm, and ready to learn, and that sense of security is the foundation for real confidence. This guide walks through a typical structured childcare day, from morning arrival and circle time to learning centers, rest, and outdoor play, showing how each part supports emotional stability, social growth, and school readiness. Discover how Mary Margaret Daycare and Learning Center balances structure with plenty of play across its nine St. Louis locations.

How a Structured Childcare Schedule Helps Children Feel Confident Read More »

Bright preschool classroom with colorful rugs, toys, shelves, and child-sized furniture.

The Difference Between Daycare Options: How to Choose the Best Child Care for Your Family

Parenting Resources /

Choosing child care can feel overwhelming with so many options to weigh. This guide breaks down the main types of daycare, from in-home nannies and family child care homes to licensed center-based programs, comparing cost, group size, daily routines, licensing, and early learning. You’ll get practical guidance for St. Louis families, plus a look at how Mary Margaret Daycare and Learning Center supports children ages six weeks to 12 years across nine locations.

The Difference Between Daycare Options: How to Choose the Best Child Care for Your Family Read More »

Child and adult drawing together with markers during an early learning activity.

How Early Childhood Education Helps Prepare Children for Kindergarten

Parenting Resources /

The move from home or daycare to kindergarten is a big step, and high-quality early childhood education gives children a real head start. This guide explains how play-based learning, daily routines, and guided practice with self-help skills build social, emotional, and academic readiness. You’ll also learn how to choose the right program and how Mary Margaret Daycare and Learning Center supports kindergarten readiness across nine St. Louis locations for children ages six weeks to 12 years.

How Early Childhood Education Helps Prepare Children for Kindergarten Read More »

Daycare teacher sitting with young children during a hands-on classroom activity.

Why Communication Between Parents and Daycare Teachers Matters

Parenting Resources /

Strong communication between parents and daycare teachers shapes how well your child grows, feels, and learns. This guide explains why two-way communication matters, from daily drop-off chats and digital updates to parent-teacher conferences and open houses. You’ll also learn how to build trust, overcome common barriers, and see how Mary Margaret Daycare and Learning Center partners with families across nine St. Louis locations for children ages six weeks to 12 years.

Why Communication Between Parents and Daycare Teachers Matters Read More »

Preschool-aged child interacting with a teacher during a hands-on classroom activity.

What Parents Should Know About Child Care Options in St. Louis

Parenting Resources /

Choosing child care in St. Louis means weighing safety, education, cost, and convenience all at once. This guide walks parents through the types of care available, what to look for in a licensed center, Missouri Accreditation, staffing and safety, costs, and enrollment steps, with insight into how Mary Margaret Daycare and Learning Center supports local families.

What Parents Should Know About Child Care Options in St. Louis Read More »

Scroll to Top