 Father's Day is more than just a chance to grab a new tie or fire up the grill—it's an opportunity to celebrate connection, love, and the bond between father and child. Whether you have a toddler, a kindergartner, or a crew of energetic big kids, here are 5 fun and meaningful ways to make Father's Day weekend truly memorable.
1. Create a "Dad & Me" Time Capsule Grab a shoebox or container, decorate it together, and fill it with items that represent your favorite memories. A drawing, a small toy, a note from Dad, a snapshot, even a snack wrapper from your favorite outing. Label it with the date and tuck it away until next Father's Day to open and reflect! 2. Start the Day with a Kid-Planned Breakfast Let the kids take charge of breakfast (with a little help). Even toddlers can help stir pancake mix or pick Dad's favorite fruit. It’s not about gourmet—it’s about giggles, sticky fingers, and love on a plate. 3. Go on a Local Adventure Find a nearby park, trail, or museum and let the kids "be the guide." Give them a map or a checklist of things to find or see. Make it feel like a mission! This turns a simple outing into an exciting shared memory. 4. DIY Father’s Day Gift Station Set up a little crafting area with blank cards, crayons, glue sticks, popsicle sticks, and whatever else you have around. Let kids make their own creations—the messier the better. These are the keepsakes dads never throw away. 5. Make a "Thank You, Dad" Video Have each child say one thing they love or appreciate about their dad. Stitch the clips together into a short video (most phones make this super easy). Show it to Dad on Sunday evening—it's a guaranteed tearjerker. These simple ideas don’t require fancy materials or a big budget. They’re all about creating space for love, laughter, and connection—something every dad (and every child) deserves. Memorial Day is more than just the unofficial start of summer—it's a time to pause and reflect on the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. While the concept of military sacrifice can be difficult for young children to fully understand, it's never too early to begin nurturing gratitude, empathy, and awareness. At Early Childhood Academy, we believe in guiding children through meaningful moments with age-appropriate activities that encourage family connection and thoughtful conversation.  🇺🇸
1. Create a “Thank You” Flag Craft Use construction paper, stickers, or handprints to make a flag with the words “Thank You” or “We Remember.” Hang it in a window or front door. 2. Visit a Local Memorial or Flag Display Take a short walk or drive to see American flags or monuments in your area. Talk with your child about what they mean in simple terms: “These are for the people who helped keep us safe.” 3. Read a Book About Heroes or Helping Others Choose age-appropriate books about community helpers, soldiers, or themes of kindness and bravery. (Bonus if the characters are animals!) 4. Watch the Parade (Even If It’s Online) If there’s a Memorial Day parade in your town—or even a video of one—watch it together and point out the music, flags, and uniforms. 5. Bake a Red, White, and Blue Treat Let kids help in the kitchen with something festive like fruit skewers, Jell-O cups, or decorated sugar cookies. 6. Write or Draw a Thank You Letter Encourage your child to draw a picture or write (with your help) a letter to a soldier or veteran. There are organizations that accept mailed thank-you notes year-round. 7. Plant Flowers Together Choose red, white, or blue flowers and let your child help plant them in memory of someone. It’s a beautiful, living tribute. 8. Just Spend Time Together Ultimately, Memorial Day is about reflection and connection. A picnic, board game, or nature walk can be a meaningful way to spend the day. However you choose to spend this Memorial Day, we hope it's filled with love, learning, and togetherness. Whether you're planting flowers, reading stories, or simply enjoying extra time with your little ones, know that every moment matters. From all of us at Early Childhood Academy, thank you for raising children with compassion and curiosity—and for honoring the true meaning of this important day.  Mother’s Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a heartfelt reminder to slow down and appreciate the love, energy, and patience moms pour into their families every day. Whether it's a hug after a scraped knee, a bedtime story read for the tenth time, or the magic of always knowing where everything is, moms deserve to be celebrated in ways big and small.
At Early Childhood Academy, we believe in simple, meaningful moments. Here are a few ideas for helping your little ones show mom how much she’s loved: 1. Make a “Mom Book” Gather drawings, silly quotes, and sweet messages from the kids to create a one-of-a-kind booklet for mom. It doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be from the heart. 2. Plan a Mommy-and-Me Date It could be a picnic at the park, a backyard tea party, or a trip to the library. Giving kids a role in planning the day builds excitement and makes mom feel extra special. 3. Create a Relaxation Station Help the kids set up a cozy space with mom’s favorite blanket, books, snacks, and maybe even a homemade “do not disturb” sign. Bonus points for quiet time! 4. Breakfast (or snack) Made by Little Hands With a little help, toddlers and preschoolers can prepare simple treats—think toast with jam, fruit kabobs, or a yogurt parfait. 5. Simply Say Thank You Encourage kids to say what they love most about their mom. You might be surprised (and amused!) by what they come up with. Let’s not forget that many children are surrounded by incredible women who take on a mother’s role—grandmas, aunties, guardians, teachers, and more. Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to honor all of them. From our Early Childhood Academy family to yours: Happy Mother’s Day to every mom and mother figure. You are seen, loved, and appreciated. |
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Red Wing Early Childhood Academy
469 12th Street Red Wing, MN 55066 Phone: 651-388-8905 Fax: 651-327-2227 Director: Stephanie Quam |
Belle Plaine Early Childhood Academy
900 East South Street Belle Plaine, MN 56011 Phone: 952-873-3331 Fax: 952-855-8515 Director: Sarah Brown |
New Prague Early Childhood Academy
1501 1st Street NE New Prague, MN 56071 Phone: 952-758-5437 Fax: 952-758-5438 Director: Becca Najera |
