Little Star Preschool

Little Star Preschool Reggio Emilia Inspired Play Based Education

08/26/2026

Thank you, Dolly.

For decades, Dolly Parton has helped put books into the hands of millions of young children through her Imagination Library, beginning at birth.

And those books represent so much more than learning to read.

In the earliest years, sharing a book is a chance for babies and toddlers to hear new words, explore the world, connect with the people who love them and build the relationships that help their brains grow. Long before a child can read the words on a page, they’re learning through every story, snuggle, point and conversation.

Inspired by her own father, who never had the opportunity to learn to read, Dolly turned a deeply personal experience into a commitment to making books more accessible to families, regardless of where they live or what they earn.

Her work is a powerful reminder that every child deserves opportunities to learn, connect and thrive from the very beginning.

Thank you, Dolly, for believing in babies.

08/17/2026

Families across America, particularly those with young children, are struggling this summer.

With costs up, many are facing financial hardship at a level even greater than what was seen at the onset of the pandemic. That economic strain is taking a toll on the emotional well-being of children and their caregivers

Read more in The 74: https://bit.ly/4zbgJ8f

Read our report: https://bit.ly/430njje

08/17/2026

It can look like defiance when a child doesn’t do what you’ve asked.

But sometimes the problem isn’t willingness.

Cognitive inflexibility can make it genuinely difficult to shift from one idea, plan or expectation to another — even when the child understands what you’ve asked.

So instead of thinking, “They’re refusing to listen,” it can help to ask:

“Is changing their plan harder than it looks?”

The behaviour may be telling you that flexibility is the part they’re struggling with — not that they’re choosing to disobey.

08/05/2026

Toddlers are still learning how to communicate, so their behavior often speaks louder than their words. Between ages 1 and 3, they're learning to express emotions, test boundaries, explore their world, and become more independent. That's why it's completely normal to see:

- Frequent use of the word "no"
- Big reactions to changes in routine
- Tantrums when they're tired, overwhelmed, or can't express what they need
- Clinginess during separation or in new situations
- Defiance as they learn where the boundaries are

These behaviors aren't signs that something is wrong. They're part of healthy brain development.

Explore the Baby Brain Map, our interactive guide to the science of early brain development, and discover how everyday moments help build a strong foundation for lifelong learning and well-being: https://bit.ly/4w3j4jg

We are really looking forward to the winds shifting this evening and having some clean air outside!
08/05/2026

We are really looking forward to the winds shifting this evening and having some clean air outside!

Some updated photos of our environment. 🌞
07/16/2026

Some updated photos of our environment. 🌞

A little bit of our tie dye activity. This is one we love to do through summer. You can really dye any clothing. It does...
07/16/2026

A little bit of our tie dye activity. This is one we love to do through summer.

You can really dye any clothing. It does not need to be new, and can be a great way to repurpose older stained clothing!

The blue shirt is a "glitter" dye kit we got at Michaels Stores.

We have a few spots remaining for summer, for ages 2-6. "Summer school" option is 830am-3:00pm! We also have daily rates...
07/16/2026

We have a few spots remaining for summer, for ages 2-6. "Summer school" option is 830am-3:00pm! We also have daily rates, and we are accepting applications for fall!

Infant space available in April 2027.

-Located in NW Corvallis

-Played-based, child-led, and Reggio Emilia inspired

-ERDC Accepted

-Organic foods

-Stainless steel dishware

-Diapers Supplied

-Certified in-home care

Please reach out for more information if you are interested. We can set up a phone interview and then a tour to see if we are a good fit for your family.

07/16/2026

Sometimes children become louder, sillier, more hyperactive or seemingly unable to stop.

And sometimes what looks like “being naughty” is actually a nervous system struggling to cope.

Silliness can be a way of releasing tension. Movement can help a child manage overwhelming internal sensations. Laughter can sometimes appear when a child is uncomfortable, anxious or unsure what to do with big feelings.

This doesn't mean every silly behaviour is a sign of distress.

But when the silliness is sudden, intense or seems out of character, it can be worth asking:

“What might be happening underneath this behaviour?”

Rather than only asking:

“How do I make it stop?”

The behaviour is still communicating something. We just need to become curious about what.

07/16/2026

Stress doesn't just change how children behave—it changes what their brain is able to notice.

When the nervous system senses danger (whether the threat is real or simply perceived), the brain shifts its priority from exploring to surviving.

A child who was happily learning, playing and connecting may suddenly seem clingy, rigid, avoidant or overwhelmed. They're not choosing a smaller world. Their brain is creating one to help them feel safe.

Understanding what's happening beneath the behaviour helps us respond with curiosity instead of frustration.

Have you noticed your child's world becoming "smaller" when they're stressed?

📖 If you'd like practical, research-based strategies to better understand your child's emotions and behaviour, you'll find them in Guidance from The Therapist Parent.

Find it here: www.thetherapistparent.com

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Corvallis, OR

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