Jumping Foxes

A little while back we joined the Elementary for their Terry Fox walk. On the way back to my home, we found a surprise in the post box.

This lovely book was given to my program. I am happy and grateful for such a lovely representation to share with the littles.

Availability for one full time space. Age 16 months-36 months.
Start date will be discussed. As I am a small program, I allow transition time for each child.

My program is:

🍄Small child to caregiver ratio (3 children : 1 caregiver) - I have two of my own children as well (18 & 8 years old.) This will remain low once Regulated. My program will be 4 to 1 at that time.

🍄 Home like environment with two healthy snacks & lunch provided daily

🍄 Full time availability (hours of operation are Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm)

🍄 16 months - 36 months

🍄 Located in the Goulds. Close to schools & only 15 minute drive to Village Mall or Walmart Mount Pearl

🍄 Pet friendly home (cat). He is older, calm and well tempered.

🍄 Daily routine includes time for outdoor exploration, process art, reading, and other developmental appropriate activities.

🍄 Large yards, gated decks and walking access to local playgrounds and parks. Including the KFFRC programs in Goulds.

🍄$250 a week. Receipts provided for year end Taxes.

🍄 Start date could be as early as next week.

🍄 First aid, PRC & vulnerable sector check available. Completed Family Child Care training course and have AECENL Family Childcare Trainee Level Certification.

If you are interested in applying for an available space, please message for more information.

Autumn is in the air!

We joined the KFFRC Goulds for their Little Explorers group and walked the Bidgoods Trail this week.

Loving Daily walks as the trees change colours!

With all the sun showers and clouds I wanted to make something to brighten the windows. Keeping in mind that art for Early Education is meant to be a Process. Meaning it's for the child to explore and create, not the adult.

These skills are fine motor. Much of what we do is also line forming and pre-writing skills.

Oftentimes it is just putting things in patterns.

My Father was here visiting last week.
A few things came up and he would say

" it's good to have something to look forward to. "

I found myself yesterday leaning into that. Especially since he left early this morning.

We do not always know our future. Things can change in a moment.

This week will bring change in my program. I am very much excited for it.

I have been a little quiet this week. Too busy enjoying my Father being here and taking a vacation.

When I looked out this morning to see our first turning tomatoes!

I'm a little sad because the littles who started this project with me, have moved up or are home this week because I am on vacation.

I'm sure they will be excited as the rest of the plant turns.

Taking a moment while the house is quietly napping...

I will be delayed in responses starting this evening for one week. I appreciate your patience during this time.

I will resume interviews around September 16th 2024

The availability is for one full time space Aged 16 months-36 months.
Start date will be discussed. As I am a small program, I allow transition time for each child.

My program is:

🍄Small child to caregiver ratio (3 children : 1 caregiver) - I have two of my own children as well (18 & 8 ) my own children are in school.

🍄 Home like environment with two healthy snacks & lunch provided daily

🍄 Full time availability (hours of operation are Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm)

🍄 16 months - 36 months

🍄 Located in the Goulds. Close to schools & only 15 minute drive to village mall or Walmart mount pearl

🍄 Pet friendly home (cat). He is older, calm and well tempered.

🍄Smoke Free home.

🍄 Daily routine includes time for outdoor exploration, process art, reading, and other developmental appropriate activities.

🍄 Large yards, gated decks and walking access to local playgrounds and parks.

🍄$250 a week. Receipts provided for year end Taxes.

🍄 Start date TBD.

🍄 First aid, PRC & vulnerable sector check available. Completed Family Child Care training course and have AECENL Family Childcare Trainee Level Certification.

If you are interested in applying for an available space, please message for more information.

Please note: I am not taking a wait list at this time. I am in the process of Regulation and OGP.

Since school has started back, it's definitely quieter around here.

Nap ended early today, so we waited outside for the short and little bus ( working on opposites ) to drop my Son home. Of course we also talked about colour. How could we not when my umbrella is the color wheel!
Everything can be a learning moment. Slow down and take the time to teach within play. Within everyday moments!

I love my umbrella. It's such a well used tool in my program. It was very warm out. Grateful for the shade it provides.

Today we saw a Police vehicle who flashed their lights for us, a metro bus, a tractor, a front loader, steam roller and so much more. But the best... The very best.. was the Fire Truck at the Goulds Station. They were washing it with big brushes. Those tiny arms could hardly lift!

Today was such a lovely day.

I am ready for another wonderful school year for my own children and those that have a piece of my heart.

I thought about the Children who I have cared for and for their siblings as they entered the classroom today.

Our Teachers, Our Educators, Our School Staff are important to the everyday functions or our children.

I can't even imagine what it would be like to have 20+ littles running around my feet! I am in awe of them.

Which humbles me. Often I hear similar things. " I can't imagine having four littles all day, you must be busy."

I'll be honest, I prefer the group. I love how busy it keeps me!

Look what we got out of the mail box today!

Today is just a day. A day between then and now and what will come.

I think many of us are feeling it. Tomorrow brings big changes for a large amount of the community.

So when friends were starting to act differently, the words clearly filled my mind " Just add water."

So off the socks went. Outside we went adventuring!

Yes, we all have rain gear. At this moment it was time to just let the cool rain wash away those big feelings.

We sent little flowers and leaf boats down the water running down the street. Took rocks from my rock pile and made a little dam. Splashed and jumped in puddles until there was very little water left.

Explored the rear garden that my family and I spent most of Sunday working on.

The next time your tiny human is struggling with big emotions, Remember to just add water. It could be as simple as a little water on a tray. Pipettes and cups and so much more.

I signed us up for this a while ago!

I can't wait to get our new books!

An exciting initiative to enroll all family resource centers and daycares in Newfoundland and Labrador in Dolly Parton's Imagination Library program is underway!

112 Family Resource and Child Care Centres have opted into the program, and in September, we will send 400 Imagination Library books directly to their centres.

This initiative aims to provide free books to family resource centers (FRCs) and daycares. These resources will be used in their programming to build excitement for the children and encourage a love for reading and learning from a young age. The goal is to continue providing books for the children at home by enrolling in Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Local Program Partners in each community. FRCs and Childcare Centers will be able to opt in by simply filling out the form Imagination Library Books to FRCs and Child Care Centres.

We especially thank our private funder, who provides books to be sent monthly for one year.

For any FRC or child care centres that have not registered, please get in touch with

[email protected]

for more information on how to register.

We are still looking to find the right fit for our little group.

My program is:

🍄Small child to caregiver ratio (3 children : 1 caregiver) - I have two of my own children as well (18 & 8 )

🍄 Home like environment with two healthy snacks & lunch provided daily

🍄 Full time availability (hours of operation are Monday to Friday 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

🍄 12 months - 36 months

🍄 Located in the Goulds. Close to schools & only 15 minute drive to village mall or Walmart mount pearl

🍄 Pet friendly home (cat). He is older, calm and well tempered.

🍄 Daily routine includes time for outdoor exploration, process art, reading, and other developmental appropriate activities.

🍄 Large yards, gated decks and walking access to local playgrounds and parks.

🍄$250 a week. Receipts provided for year end Taxes.

🍄 Start date September 16th 2024

🍄 First aid, PRC & vulnerable sector check available. Completed Family Child Care training course and have AECENL Family Childcare Trainee Level Certification.

If you are interested in applying for an available space, please message for more information.

It's been such a different pace this week.

It's not bad. It's just different. I am grateful for the chance to calm before the start of another school year.

As a Family Child Care Provider we have ratios to follow. The ratio depends on many factors like:

Regulated or Not?
Ages of children?
Approved space ( more for Regulated.)

This number is there for the safety and well-being of the Children in the care of One Adult.

Much like a play tent has limitations on how many can fit inside.

As my own children under the age of 12 count, I am only permitted 3 children at this time. My application is only for 4 not including my own child.

Personally I love a small group of Four. This dynamic allows for social emotional growth while supporting an attentive environment. I am able to observe and plan to each child's individual needs. Working with the family to encourage their development and goals.

Hard to believe School starts in less than a week!

Some days, you have to just stop what you are doing. Change your plans.

Just have fun.

After weeks of working within and after my opening and closing hours, this impromptu outing was what we needed.

I appreciate every single person, that has reached out, interviewed and the families who met us.

My reply time for the next 24 hours, will be delayed. As I take some down time with my family.

It's hard to say goodbye to children and families that have been with your for sometime.

So I didn't.

I told the friend heading to School " I want to hear from you after your first week of school!" I meant that.

For my little friend leaving for a Daycare Center, I can't even put it into words. I'm not meant to. This child's Mother said it best.

" This isn't just a Daycare, It's a Second Home. "

Dayhomes provide so many different things. They may not be for everyone. They may only be a stepping stone on the path for a child. For others it can be lifelong friendships. Or just that..a Second Home. A safe place to be when not with their family.

Either way, I am honored and grateful for the time we have spent together learning and growing from each other.

Every child teaches me something new.

Never forget the beauty in how children see the world.

There is two times of year, I find myself trying to slow down. Thinking more. Oddly, they both happen to be the time period leading to big events in my household.
I expect that will become a trend. Sharing small parts of Jumping Foxes, around Winter Break and the Return to School.

This post is about two things:
Observations and Bugs

Tonight, as I sat for a moment. Thinking about my to-do list for the next few weeks. I noticed, Koda, our cat moving around. Jumping and pouncing. Sniffing. Seemingly touching nothing.

I observed this for quite some time. From the hallway to the carpet. On and off. Then I saw it. A centipede looking bug. It moved so fast under our Nursery station.

I'll admit. I removed it. Before I took the time to actually figure out what type of bug it is.

Had my friends been here. We would have observed it. Most likely, I would have caught it. Found a jar. We would have looked it up.

I guess bugs getting inside is inevitable. Especially when Eight small legs plus the longer legs, are coming and going outside. Bugs can stay outdoors. Just not in Ms. Lilly's house!

Oh how neat it would have been to clear out the Tuff Tray, to see if it could climb the sides. Maybe that will occur next time.

Time for another introduction of sorts.

There are multiple ways a person can be considered Qualified as a provider of care for children.

Motherhood, I think is one of the biggest Teachers. This is my oldest. Families who join my program, are introduced for the start.

My Teen is such a great help. The best Sibling my Youngest child could ask for.They are my shopping and planning partner. Help me disinfect and reset at the end of the day. Snow clear the emergency exits during snow days. Help us go for walks. Take photos that I would never get to see the perspective of and so much more.

They are learning so much of the responsibilities that are being an Early Childhood Educator. Observing the behind the scenes process of becoming Regulated Family Childcare Provider in this Province.

They are why I am extra emotional lately. As they are turning 18. Despite them saying an Adult.Eighteen is still a Teen. It's been a long time since they were as small as the Little Ones I care for now.

If I grow more grey hair, it's them as well. As passed their Drivers permit test!

It's Friday! Just like we feel that shift from the traditional work week, our little ones do as well.

We spent almost half the morning outside. Drawing and talking about a special guest that came this afternoon.

The older friends created a picture of a cat with me. They were presented with the choice to keep their drawing or to give it to the Cat Groomers who came to make our cat look like a lion.

Colleen of Fast and the Furriest told them " I'll put them on my fridge!"

I will say, I am not entirely sure why we all drew orange cats! Our cat is grey 🩶

I suppose it is about time I put a face to the name!
Instead of saying "good morning"like I sing to my littles throughout the school year, I say "Good Evening, Dear Friends, I'm Ms. Lilly."

I am proudly the Mother of two children. My oldest is soon 18. My youngest 8. A lady does not often tell their age. I was younger than my oldest when I first started to care for children. Now, as my oldest becomes an adult, it's safe to say I am on the older side.

I truly love what I do. Just ask my current families. I am sure they can tell you stories. From slug slime to dancing in downpours, I enjoy it all.

They may also tell you I am a little bit "quirky."
To which I will remind you all, Steve from Blues Clues, Blippi, Ms. Rachel... Even Einstein, are all a bit the same.

I sing, I laugh, I dance, I cook, I bake, I sew, I create.

Most of all, I care.

I care about those little moments that often are overlooked. Just today one of my friends was outside with me layling low on the grass. Being still and quiet as we hoped the little butterfly would come close.

Little voice excited exclaimed " seed!" Pointing to a flower that had gone to the seed. Something we have talked and explored since the beginning of spring.

I am Ms. Lilly. I am the magic behind Jumping Foxes!

Thank you for being here.

The word to best describe today:Emotions

We have been reading books about going to school and making new friends.

While I watched them all play today, I could not help but think of what next week will bring.

Even more, what the weeks after will be.

The air was cooler today. Everyone arrived in pants, jackets in hand. Autumn is just around the corner. School is soon to start.

If you can, Parents, Guardians and Family Members, take a moment over the next few weeks. Remember what it is like to be young and starting a new adventure.

I ask this, because when these Little Ones look to us for reassurance, be present for them. Be kind.
They are learning to navigate a big world with new experiences everyday!

Beautiful morning to play outside with water and sand!

I just sent it in for our Local school!

Share Some Good and nominate a teacher! Time to 'Share Some Good'!

It is Regatta day!

A wonderful day to take a break. Pause and reflect before we send our children back to school.

School is exciting! A new adventure. It can also be emotional and overwhelming.

Here are my suggestions to make a successful transition and amazing first week.

Clothing:
Allow your child a comfortable choice over the dressed up choice we all grew up with. Much like at childcare or preschool, your child is going to play. Going to create. Overall get messy. It's September. It's still very warm.

Consider picking out a few outfits. Soft cotton. Clothing they prefer. You chose a few you really like. Let them pick which one they want.

Shoes:
Please allow them to break those new shoes in at home before the first day. No child wants to be hurting or in shoes slightly too big.

Backpacks:
Make sure it is a comfortable and correct size for your child.

Lunch and recess:
Allow them to practice opening and closing containers and bags at home prior to the first week of school. How to refill their water container.

Independence in small things like putting on a coat, zipping up a bookbag, being able to serve themselves, will go a very long way as they enter a new environment.

Safety!!!
In my 18 years of being a Mother, I have learned to appreciate this tip.
Ditch the school board that tells your child's school, age, grade,teacher favorite foods and colours. If you must use them, have them for close friends and family.

Instead, use a simple board that says first day or last day. Even just the date or grade is limited information.

Yes having their name on their bag is cute. And can be practical for younger students. Consider a name tag, or putting it on the backside or inside instead.

For the overall school year:
Be prepared. Your child will likely leave or lose items. I can not tell you how many water bottles I have replaced over the years.

I will tell you, Kindergarten and Grade One... My youngest had 2 lunch boxes. Labeled "Box One" and "Box Two - Please bring both home!"
Last year I think he did not leave his box once! It was a great accomplishment! Lost 4 hats though.

Most of all, build that relationship with your School. Your Teachers and Staff. Kindness and grace is always appreciated. We are all working together for the success of our little ones.