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There’s an undeniable energy and warmth when Emilia walks into a room. As Playocity’s Teacher of the Month, she brings with her a world of artistic passion – a passion that manifests in the fluid movements of her dance classes, the captivating narratives of her storytelling sessions, and the raw emotion she instills in her acting students. With just a little over a year with us, Emilia’s impact has already been profound, and it’s an honour to delve deeper into her journey and understand what drives her.
From a young girl who dreamt of wielding paintbrushes to a young woman captivating many with her breathtaking dance performances, Emilia’s artistic journey is an inspiring story. Emilia recalls being a shy kid, but the art of dance helped her step out of her shell and find her place under the spotlight.
As a Dance Teacher at Playocity, Emilia cherishes the close-knit environment and the meaningful relationships she has built with her colleagues. For her, the sense of inclusion and understanding, especially as an immigrant, is paramount. Playocity’s meticulously crafted programs get a thumbs-up from Emilia, who witnesses the transformative journey of her students from the start to the end of each program.
For the young souls struggling in school, Emilia’s advice is heartfelt and empowering: “Trust the process, learn from your mistakes, and believe in yourself. This too shall pass.” Join us as we celebrate Emilia’s contributions and continue to be inspired by her story!
I always knew I wanted to be an artist. I wanted to be a painter for the longest time until I found dance. Then, I wanted to become a dancer with all my heart but photography was something that really inspired me so I studied photography as well. Later on, I became very interested in acting, and it became part of my life as well. Dance has been the biggest love of my life and the most constant career I wanted since I started taking dance classes as a teenager.
I was always a very shy kid and thought of myself as an introvert. This explains why I wanted to be a painter so that no one could burst my bubble. One day, my mom told me she was going to put me in Tap classes and I cried my eyes out because I didn’t want to do whatever “tap” was. I took the first class and immediately fell in love and that’s when I came out of my shell (thanks Mom). The first time I performed on stage it just felt right, it felt like home and I wanted it to be like that forever.
Both my grandmothers were dancers on and off but it was not their main career. Art definitely runs in my veins as my mom is a musician and an excellent performer. I think that my mom is the reason I have a great love for music and my body works as my instrument.
It depends on the season. During the summer months, I love going out with my friends, walking my dog, or having a nice date with my husband. I would say that hiking and swimming are my favourite things to do during the summer. In winter, I love embroidering, painting, playing videogames, doing outdoor winter activities or shopping!
Mexican feminists inspire me every day to be bolder and more authentic about my art. The struggle we face every day in Mexico is something that really inspires me to talk about our story and work towards making a change in society. Also, my mom is a great inspiration for me, she’s such an amazing artist, musician, woman and human being.
Not a big fan of strength-related exercises like push-ups, crunches or squats.
I’m really trying hard to save money to make a trip to Europe to see as many countries as I can. I would add Egypt as well.
My camera, music and a journal.
What I love about working with Playocity is the closeness and safe environment I get with Alanna, Alena and Krystina. I feel like I can communicate any type of concerns, or questions or even share anything with them and I feel heard. It’s a big part for me as an immigrant to feel included in my work and I feel that I have that in this space. As a teacher, I’ve had great experiences with every school that I have worked with. The programs created by Playocity are amazing for the kids and I am able to witness progression and transformation in my students from day one until the end of the workshop. I love how all the programs are authentic and very well thought out.
This too shall pass. I know it may seem overwhelming but this big struggle you’re having is going to be a great lesson and an even bigger opportunity to create something incredible. Trust the process and remember that we learn more from our mistakes than from our achievements. Most importantly, trust yourself, you’re doing great!
As summer fades and the first signs of fall appear, the unmistakable buzz of back-to-school season begins to fill the air. Whether you’re a first-year student or you’ve been navigating school hallways for years, preparing for a new academic year requires some groundwork. In this comprehensive back-to-school checklist, we’ll delve into all the essentials every student needs, from the basic school supplies to the must-have personal items. Remember, being well-prepared is your first step to academic success!
Backpack: Invest in a sturdy backpack with plenty of compartments to help organize your materials.
Notebooks and Binders: Organize different subjects with a dedicated notebook or binder.
Writing Instruments: Pens (blue, black, and coloured), pencils, highlighters, and erasers.
Calculator: A basic calculator for younger students and a scientific/graphing calculator for older students or specific courses.
Planner or Digital Organizer: Keeping track of assignments, tests, and other commitments is crucial.
Rulers, Compass, and Protractors: Geometry essentials for any math class.
Folders: Have at least one for each subject to keep handouts and assignments organized.
Post-It Notes and Index Cards: Handy for taking quick notes or making flashcards for studying.
Art Supplies: Colored pencils, crayons, watercolours, or markers depending on the grade and coursework.
Laptop or Tablet: An indispensable tool for research, writing, and presentations.
USB Flash Drive: For transferring and storing digital projects and files.
Headphones: Especially useful for online learning or study sessions in noisy environments.
Chargers: Keep a backup charger in your bag, so you’re never out of juice.
Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day with a reusable bottle.
Lunch Box or Bag: Pack your own meals and snacks to keep energy levels up.
Hand Sanitizer: In our current health climate, it’s better to be safe.
Tissue Packs: For unexpected sniffles or messes.
Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so comfort is key.
Gym Attire: Required for most physical education classes.
Umbrella or Raincoat: Stay prepared for unexpected rain.
A Light Jacket: Perfect for chilly classrooms or the transition into fall.
Study Aids: Subject-specific guidebooks or apps can help you get an edge in your courses.
Library Card: A valuable resource for research and a quiet place to study.
Online Course Subscriptions: Platforms like Khan Academy or Coursera offer additional learning resources.
While every student’s needs can vary based on their grade level and coursework, this comprehensive back-to-school checklist serves as a foundation. Remember, preparation doesn’t end on the first day. Continuously assess your needs, adjust where necessary, and always strive for academic excellence. With these items in your arsenal, you’re bound to have a productive and successful year ahead.
Since ancient times, dance and movement have been an inseparable part of human expression. For kids, engaging in dance and movement activities goes beyond just having fun; it nurtures their physical, emotional, and cognitive development. From twirling around the living room to structured dance classes, the benefits of dance and movement for kids are profound and multifaceted. In this article, we’ll explore some of the enchanting advantages that dance and movement offer to young minds.
One of the most apparent benefits of dance and movement for kids is the improvement of their physical health and coordination. Dancing involves various body movements, stretching, and aerobic exercise, which contribute to the development of strong muscles and bones. The regular practice of dance enhances flexibility, balance, and coordination, helping children to become more aware of their bodies and movements.
Dance provides a platform for kids to express themselves creatively, fostering a sense of confidence and self-esteem. Whether they are performing on a stage or simply dancing in their room, the act of moving to music enables them to embrace their individuality and showcase their unique personalities. This newfound confidence often translates into other areas of their lives, such as social interactions and academic performance.
Dance is a powerful tool for emotional expression and stress relief. When kids dance, they experience a release of endorphins, also known as the “feel-good” hormones. This surge of positive emotions helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Dancing provides an outlet for pent-up emotions, allowing children to process their feelings and experience a sense of joy and contentment.
Dance and movement activities are not just about physical coordination; they also sharpen cognitive skills. Learning dance routines and mastering choreography involve memory, concentration, and problem-solving. The rhythmic patterns and music in dance stimulate neural connections in the brain, which can positively impact a child’s cognitive development and academic performance.
Participating in dance classes or group performances promotes social interaction and teamwork among kids. They learn to collaborate with others, share ideas, and work towards a common goal. The camaraderie and friendships formed in a dance setting create a supportive and nurturing environment for children to thrive.
Dance is a gateway to exploring various cultures and traditions. Through dance, kids can learn about different styles, music, and customs from around the world. This exposure fosters an appreciation for diversity and develops an open-minded attitude towards different cultures and lifestyles.
Dance and movement are not just entertainment for kids; they provide a wealth of advantages that contribute to children’s overall development. From physical fitness to emotional well-being and cognitive growth, the impact of dance on young minds is profound. So, whether it’s a structured dance class or spontaneous dance parties at home, let your kids sway to the music, embrace their creativity, and revel in the magic of dance for a brighter and more enriching childhood.
As a daycare provider, it can be tough to decide how to craft the perfect curriculum for your kids. It’s important to remember that young children need plenty of opportunities to play, as they learn and develop important skills through play. Here are a few of the key benefits of including play in your daycare curriculum.
Socialization is a crucial part of early childhood development. Through play, young children learn to interact with others, negotiate, share and take turns. In fact, when children are given opportunities to play in groups, they are more likely to develop meaningful relationships and a strong sense of community that can carry through into adulthood.
There is a strong correlation between play and language skills. As children engage in imaginative play, they create stories, role-play conversations, and learn to express their thoughts and emotions through words. Play provides an organic and engaging way for children to practice language skills like grammar, vocabulary, and syntax.
Physical activity is essential for young children’s healthy development. Playtime provides a natural and fun way to develop gross and fine motor skills, improve coordination and balance, and enhance overall physical health. Activities like scavenger hunts, tag, and dancing are great ways to get kids up and moving.
Imaginative play allows children to create and manipulate their own worlds. Through this process, kids can express their individuality, and learn to think critically and solve problems in unique ways. Furthermore, imaginative play helps to nurture children’s creativity, which is essential to success in many areas of life.
Just like adults, children can experience stress and anxiety. Play provides a healthy outlet for expressing and coping with different emotions. Creative activities like drawing and painting, building with blocks or playing with puppets can be especially effective at reducing stress and anxiety levels.
In conclusion, play is the foundation for early learning in daycare settings. By creating a curriculum that incorporates various forms of play, daycare providers can help to foster healthy development in children. From building social skills and enhancing language development to boosting creativity, play is an essential component of any successful daycare curriculum.
We are proud to present Highview Wilson Daycare Centre, our Client Spotlight! Highview Wilson is a non-profit organization in Toronto, located inside Highview Wilson Public School. They provide high-quality care and an inclusive learning environment for all children. The childcare centre is licensed by the ministry of education and inspected by the city.
Highview Wilson Childcare follows a play-based emergent curriculum, allowing children to grow and develop by cultivating their interests and talents. One of the main goals is to create an environment where learners can reach their full potential by learning through trial and error and creative exploration.
Playocity has been partnering with Highview Wilson as one of their extracurricular programming facilitators, and It’s been an absolute pleasure. As an organization, we feel that we have a lot in common with our client spotlight, especially when it comes to the overall educational approach and philosophy.
We believe that children learn best when they have opportunities to explore and express themselves through play, and that’s exactly the kind of environment that Highview Wilson has created for their learners.
Highview’s experienced teachers understand that learning and development are not just about teaching children facts and figures, but rather helping them reach their full potential while enjoying the process. To do this, they create individualized activities that allow chilcren to explore topics they are passionate about while still developing essential skills.
Highview Wilson Daycare Centre is truly a fantastic facility where kids can learn and grow in an enjoyable environment and we look forward to continuing this amazing collaboration!
Mood-boosting activities can do wonders for you and your students’ overall well-being. Aside from elevating your mood, these activities offer plenty of other benefits, such as reducing stress, nurturing cognitive skills, and promoting values like responsibility and teamwork. We’re sharing our favourite 10 mood-boosting activities you can introduce in your classroom.
Music can be used as a powerful tool to reinvigorate your students when they’re feeling a bit flat. It can also be a source of inspiration for them, as well as a tool for emotional support. Moreover, listening to music has a host of benefits. It can reduce stress and anxiety, improve your mood, and enhance mental alertness. Ask your students what songs they like listening to and use their suggestions to create a unique playlist for the classroom. You can also encourage your students to get up and dance, as movement can be one way for them to process what they’re feeling. If you’re feeling a bit low yourself, you may want to join in on the fun and experience the power of music.
It might sound like a cliché, but laughter is indeed the best medicine and offers several short- and long-term benefits. A good laugh can help ease tension and stress as it can lower cortisol levels, helping you and your students feel more relaxed. Moreover, laughter improves your endorphin levels, giving your mood an instant boost.
You can start by cracking a joke or two to break the ice. You can give your students a heads-up that they’ll be asked to share their favourite jokes, or you can do it spontaneously to get the ball rolling.
Engaging in physical activity promotes better physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It can improve cognitive function and sleep, as well as reduce anxiety and depression. It can also help you and your students manage stress. The thing is everyone has different thresholds for physical activities. But there is some good news—you don’t need to engage in strenuous exercises to reap the benefits of physical activity. You can do something as simple as stretching, dancing, jumping, or playing indoor ball games.
Practicing mindfulness brings in a lot of benefits. It can improve not just your physical and mental health but also your overall well-being. Regular mindfulness practice can help reduce stress and hone our capacity to be aware and observant.
One of the most common myths about mindfulness and mindfulness exercises is that they’re only for adults. The good news is anyone can practice mindfulness, even kids. Plus, there are many ways to practice it. You can ask your students to sit down, stand, or move around. The key to mindfulness practice is paying attention and being present in the moment.
If you can, schedule a regular nature walk for your class. Being in nature and breathing fresh air can elevate your mood and give your energy levels a boost. It can also help reduce stress and promote better sleep. Plus, you can do it for free. Check your local area to see if there are any parks that you and your class can visit.
Gardening is a great mood-boosting activity that can easily be done in the classroom. It can reduce stress, help with fine motor development, especially if you’re with younger children, and it teaches them early on about responsibility and patience. It’s also a wonderful way for kids to use all their five senses. Plus, a classroom garden doubles as a teaching tool. As you plant, you can teach your students about how plants grow or what they need to thrive.
Classroom pets not only promote curiosity and learning but also help improve children’s self-esteem and teach them about responsibility. Moreover, class pets can provide richer experiences in the classroom for young learners and gives them something to look forward to when they go to school. Lastly, having a classroom pet can help enhance the well-being of your students and become a great alternative to screen time. Pets can relieve stress, offer emotional support, and enable students to feel more at ease.
Reading is always a welcome activity, whether it’s at home or in the classroom. It supports the development of students’ critical and analytical thinking skills, improves their self-esteem, and nurtures their imagination. Reading can also do wonders for your mental health. It can help reduce stress and give your students a way to cope with daily stressors, making reading an excellent mood-boosting activity.
Allot a specific schedule or time for reading, such as making it a weekly or monthly activity. Set up your classroom to make it more conducive for reading, like bringing pillows or blankets. You can also ask your students to bring some snacks.
Group activities like art projects give children the opportunity to learn about cooperation and teamwork. Moreover, art and art education are powerful tools for learning, self-expression, and creativity. It can relieve stress, keep students engaged, and make them feel excited. After all, isn’t it exciting to see your ideas come to life? Moreover, learning how to make or appreciate art can help young learners become happier.
Unstructured play allows your students to simply have fun while squeezing in some physical activity. In unstructured play, they can run around or dance to some of their favourite tunes. This not only gives them a sense of freedom, as structured play can feel a bit limiting sometimes, but it also helps elevate their mood.
Aside from introducing these activities, you can go a step further and create your own mood tracker for the classroom. Your students can select colours or icons like emojis that represent their mood. This way, you and your students can monitor the state of their mental health regularly. A mood tracker will also let you see any progress or fluctuations, allowing you to take the appropriate action to help your students effectively manage their moods.
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