At Robbins Children’s Programs, we believe every child deserves to feel seen, valued, celebrated, and included for exactly who they are.

Our community consists of families representing a wide range of backgrounds, traditions, languages, and experiences. This diversity is truly one of our greatest strengths.

Different in Many Ways… Alike in So Many More

As children learn about different cultures, they begin to discover something truly important:

We may look different
Speak different languages
Celebrate different traditions
Eat different foods

…but we all share the same need for:

Kindness
Friendship
Belonging
Love

Why Multicultural Learning Matters

Creating a multicultural environment helps children:

Build empathy and compassion
Explore new perspectives
Gain confidence in their own identity
Learn respect and appreciation for others
Develop curiosity about the world around them

At RCP, diversity is celebrated every day through:

Books
Music
Art
Food
Dramatic play
Conversations
Family traditions

When families share pieces of their culture with our community, it creates meaningful opportunities for connection, understanding, and learning for everyone.

Join Us for Our First F.A.M. Fest!

Food • Art • Music Festival

We are so excited to celebrate our new multicultural family event!

Thursday, May 28
4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Families Will Enjoy:

Delicious foods from different cultures
Music
A student-created art gallery
Time to connect, celebrate, and learn together

Our children have been hard at work creating unique art pieces, and we cannot wait for families to experience their creativity during our gallery walk!

F.A.M. Fest is a chance for our community to come together, explore new traditions, and celebrate all the wonderful cultures that make RCP so special.

We hope you’ll join us for an evening filled with connection, creativity, and fun!

Extended Learning

Books That Celebrate Diversity & Culture

Preschool-Aged Children

The Colors of Us

Celebrates the many beautiful shades of skin and reminds children that every color is special.

All Are Welcome

A joyful story about inclusion, friendship, and belonging at school.

The Name Jar

Encourages children to embrace their identity and appreciate cultural differences.

School-Aged Children

Front Desk

A powerful story about family, immigration, hard work, and kindness.

New Kid

A graphic novel exploring identity, friendship, and fitting in.

Other Words for Home

A moving story about culture, change, and staying connected to family and heritage.

Together We Grow

By celebrating diversity together, we help children understand that our differences make our community stronger, richer, and more beautiful.

Thank you for being part of a program that values:

Inclusion
Respect
Belonging
Community

for all children and families.

For young children, learning about the Earth starts with everyday experiences. Whether they are exploring outdoors, noticing the changing seasons, or caring for classroom plants, children begin to understand that their actions matter. By guiding them with age-appropriate lessons and hands-on activities, we can help them develop a sense of responsibility and appreciation for nature.

Small Actions Children Can Take To Help Save Our Earth

Even small actions can make a big impact. When children learn to throw away trash properly, reuse materials for art projects, or turn off the water while washing their hands, they begin to see themselves as helpers of the Earth. These early habits not only support a cleaner, healthier environment, but also build confidence and independence.

At Robbins Children’s Programs, we strive to create a nurturing environment where children feel connected to the world around them. Through play, exploration, and daily routines, we encourage curiosity about nature and empower children to take part in caring for our planet—one small step at a time.

Why Earth Day Matters

• Helps children understand the importance of nature
• Encourages responsibility and kindness toward the Earth
• Builds lifelong habits that support a healthy environment
• Inspires curiosity about plants, animals, and ecosystems

Simple Ways Children Can Help

• Turn off lights when leaving a room
• Use both sides of paper when drawing or writing
• Recycle bottles, paper, and containers
• Pick up litter during outdoor play
• Use reusable water bottles and lunch containers

Fun Earth Day Activities for Kids

• Plant flowers or vegetables and watch them grow
• Go on a nature walk and observe plants and animals
• Create art using recycled materials
• Read books about the Earth and environment
• Start a small classroom recycling station

How Families Can Join In

• Talk about ways to reduce waste at home
• Spend time outdoors together
• Practice sorting recyclables
• Encourage children to care for plants or a garden
• Model eco-friendly habits every day

This month, our classrooms will be buzzing with exploration as we dive into themes of growth, nature, and discovery. Children are naturally drawn to the magic of change around them—and spring offers endless invitations to wonder, ask questions, and learn through joyful play.

We’ll be observing how plants grow, noticing the ever-changing weather, and exploring the outdoors with fresh eyes. Little hands will be busy planting seeds, scooping and pouring in spring-inspired sensory bins, creating colorful works of art, and enjoying more time outside as the sunshine returns. There’s something truly special about learning that feels like play—and spring gives us so many beautiful ways to do just that.

Bringing Spring Learning Home

Spring is also a wonderful time to nurture learning at home in simple, meaningful ways. Everyday moments can turn into magical learning experiences when we slow down and explore together.

Spring Activities for Preschool Children

1. Plant a Seed Together

Let your child plant a seed in a small pot or cup. Talk about what plants need to grow—sunlight, water, and soil. Then comes the fun part: checking in each day! Watching that first sprout appear is pure magic.

2. Nature Walk & Color Hunt

Take a stroll around your neighborhood or a local park and turn it into a colorful adventure. Can your child spot something green? Yellow? Blue? You might be surprised at what they discover!

3. Spring Sensory Bin

Fill a bin with dry rice, plastic insects, faux flowers, scoops, and small containers. Sensory play supports fine motor skills while opening the door to imaginative storytelling.

4. Weather Watchers

Make a daily ritual of looking outside together. Is it sunny, rainy, or windy? Try drawing a simple weather chart—it’s a wonderful way to build observation skills and routines.

Spring Activities for School-Age Children

1. Backyard Science: Grow Your Own Plant

Encourage your child to become a “plant scientist”! Try planting different seeds and tracking their growth in a journal with drawings and notes.

2. Build a Bird Feeder

Using a pinecone, peanut butter (or sunflower butter), and birdseed, create a simple feeder. Hang it outside and watch who comes to visit—nature’s guests may surprise you!

3. Spring Scavenger Hunt

Create a list of spring treasures to find: a blooming flower, a bird, a puddle, a buzzing insect. It’s a playful way to encourage observation and movement.

4. Family Reading Time

Snuggle up with a good book and explore stories about spring, animals, and nature. Reading together builds language skills—and creates some of the coziest moments of the day.

Spring Reading Corner

Looking for a few books to enjoy together or for your child to explore independently? Here are some lovely seasonal picks:

For Younger Children (Read Together):

• And Then It’s Spring by Julie Fogliano
• The Tiny Seed by Eric Carle
• Planting a Rainbow by Lois Ehlert

For School-Age Children (Independent or Shared Reading):

• Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo
• The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett
• Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

These stories beautifully capture themes of growth, friendship, and the wonders of the natural world—perfect companions for the season.

Growing Together

At RCP, we believe learning happens everywhere—within our classrooms and in the everyday moments you share at home. Thank you for partnering with us to nurture curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning in your children.

We are so excited to welcome this new season and all the joy it brings. Here’s to a March filled with discovery, growth, and plenty of muddy, magical adventures!

Happy Spring!

How Can Children Be Taught To Be Kind and Compassionate?

From the very first day, children are gently guided to recognize and respect the feelings of others. Through age-appropriate conversations, storytelling, and guided play, teachers help children understand what empathy looks like in action—whether it’s comforting a friend who is feeling sad or celebrating someone else’s success. These everyday moments become powerful lessons that stay with them far beyond the classroom.

Kindness is woven into our daily routines. Children learn that small actions—sharing a toy, offering a helping hand, using polite words—can make a big difference. Educators model positive behavior and create an environment where kindness is noticed, encouraged, and celebrated. Over time, these habits become second nature.

Friendship, too, is nurtured with intention. Through cooperative games, group projects, and collaborative play, children practice communication, problem-solving, and teamwork. They learn how to take turns, resolve conflicts respectfully, and appreciate differences. These social skills lay the groundwork for healthy relationships throughout life.

At Robbins Children’s Programs, we believe that when children feel valued and connected, they thrive. By fostering empathy, kindness, and friendship each day, we’re not just caring for children—we’re helping to shape thoughtful, caring members of our community.

These same core values continue to guide our school age program. Educators intentionally create a safe, inclusive environment where children feel heard, respected, and empowered. Through group discussions, team-building activities, and leadership opportunities, students are encouraged to stand up for one another, use their voices responsibly, and practice empathy in more complex social situations. As children grow, so do their social dynamics—and our educators are there to support them every step of the way.

Teaching Children How Bullying Affects Others

Anti-bullying education is thoughtfully integrated into daily interactions and structured activities. Staff members model respectful communication, teach healthy conflict resolution strategies, and address concerns proactively and consistently. Children learn what bullying is, how it affects others, and how they can be part of the solution—whether by seeking support from a trusted adult or by showing courage and kindness when someone needs an ally. By reinforcing these values beyond the daycare years, we ensure that empathy, kindness, and friendship remain at the foundation of every child’s experience.

Together, these experiences create more than just positive school days—they help shape who our children are becoming. When empathy is practiced, kindness is celebrated, and friendships are nurtured with care, children develop the confidence and compassion they need to thrive in the world around them. At Robbins Children’s Programs, we are proud to partner with families in raising not only bright learners, but thoughtful, caring individuals who carry these values with them wherever they go.

What’s A Buddy Bench?

We’re excited to share that RCP will soon be adding a Buddy Bench to our playground!
A Buddy Bench is a special spot where a child can sit if they’re feeling lonely or unsure of who to play with. It’s a simple, meaningful way to let others know, “I could use a friend.” Classmates are encouraged to notice and invite anyone on the bench to join a game or start a conversation.

It’s all about building kindness, empathy, and inclusion—making sure every child feels seen, valued, and never left out. If you’d like to learn more about how Buddy Benches make a difference, visit https://mybuddybenchproject.org/

Slowing Down In Winter Is Not Falling Behind

In nature, winter is a season of rest. Trees shed their leaves, animals hibernate, and the earth pauses before the growth of spring. Our bodies and minds benefit from this same rhythm. For children especially, slowing down after busy fall schedules and holiday excitement can help regulate energy, emotions, and overall well-being.

Intentional rest—earlier bedtimes, quieter afternoons, and fewer rushed commitments—gives growing bodies time to repair and recharge. Sleep is one of the most important tools we have for supporting immune health, helping children fight off germs they encounter at school and in the community.

Nourishing the Body From the Inside Out During Winter

Winter is a wonderful time to focus on comforting, nourishing foods and daily hydration. Warm soups, stews, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables provide important vitamins and minerals that support immune function. Involving children in food preparation—washing vegetables, stirring soups, or choosing fruits at the store—can help build positive connections with nutritious foods.

Hydration is just as important in winter as it is in summer, even though we may feel less thirsty. Offering water regularly throughout the day and including hydrating foods like fruits, vegetables, and broths can help keep little bodies balanced and supported.

Fresh Air Still Matters—Even in Winter

Cold weather doesn’t mean we need to stay indoors all the time. Fresh air and outdoor movement continue to play an important role in children’s health during winter months. Short walks, bundled-up playtime, or simply stepping outside to notice the quiet sounds of winter can boost mood, support circulation, and offer a refreshing change of pace.

Outdoor time also provides a natural break from indoor germs and encourages children to move their bodies in joyful, low-pressure ways.

Winter Self-Care for the Whole Family

• Self-care in winter doesn’t have to be elaborate. For families, it can look like:
• Cozy evenings with books or board games
• Shared meals without rushing
• Gentle routines that create predictability and comfort

Time for connection through conversation, play, and rest

When children see adults prioritizing rest and care for themselves, they learn that slowing down is healthy and valuable—not something to feel guilty about.

A Season for Connection and Renewal

Winter offers a chance to reconnect with one another. Longer evenings and quieter weekends make space for meaningful family moments—reading together, telling stories, cooking, or simply being present with one another.

This season of rest helps us reset. By honoring winter’s slower pace, we allow our bodies to strengthen, our minds to settle, and our families to reconnect. In doing so, we gently prepare ourselves—and our children—for the energy and growth that spring will bring.

As we move through January, we encourage families to embrace winter’s invitation: slow down, care deeply for yourselves and one another, and trust that rest is an essential part of health, learning, and growth.

Stay warm and healthy! ~ Robbins Children’s Programs

Try This Winter Wellness Activity at Home:

• Create a cozy bedtime routine: Choose calming activities like reading, gentle stretching, or quiet music to help children wind down and get the rest their growing bodies need.
• Warm up with nourishing foods: Invite children to help make a simple soup, oatmeal, or warm snack. Talk about how food helps our bodies stay strong and healthy.
• Make hydration a habit: Offer water throughout the day and model drinking water together as a family.
• Step outside daily: Bundle up and enjoy a short walk, backyard play, or a few deep breaths of fresh air—even 10 minutes can make a difference.
• Plan intentional family time: Set aside small moments to connect—sharing a meal, playing a board game, or reading together—to support emotional well-being and togetherness.

Small, intentional choices during the winter months can help support immune health, encourage rest, and create meaningful family connections.

How Can I Help My Family Feel Less Overwhelmed During The Holidays?

Here are a few simple, kid-friendly “holiday stress busters” to help your family slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the season:

1. Create Calm Moments Together: Take five minutes for a “family reset.” Try deep belly breaths with your child, stretch together, or listen to a favorite calming song. Even short pauses can make a big difference.

2. Keep Routines (Mostly) Steady: Festive events can disrupt regular schedules, but keeping familiar routines—bedtime, snack time, or reading time—helps children feel secure. Consistency brings comfort during busy times.

3. Choose Experiences Over Expectations: You don’t have to do everything. Pick one or two special traditions your family truly enjoys, whether it’s decorating cookies, reading holiday stories, or driving around to look at lights.

4. Plan “Unplugged” Time: Cozy up with a board game, puzzle, or craft. Simple activities give children a chance to slow down and offer parents a breather from screens and holiday noise.

5. Remember to Take Care of You: Children feel calmer when their grown-ups feel calm. A short walk, a warm drink, or a few minutes of quiet can help you recharge.

This season, we hope your family finds joy in the little moments—giggles during craft time, stories shared at bedtime, and the sparkle in your child’s eyes as they experience the magic of the holidays.

From all of us at the daycare, we wish you a peaceful, joyful, stress-light December!

When we engage with our local community—through service projects, visits from local professionals, and partnerships with neighborhood organizations—children gain real-world experiences and a sense of belonging. These moments help young learners connect what they’re taught in the classroom to the world around them, encouraging empathy, curiosity, and social awareness.

Our Signature Community Initiatives That Grow The Minds Of Our Preschoolers and Other Program Attendees

For over 50 years, Robbins Children’s Programs has been a pillar of support and connection within its community, demonstrating a deep-rooted commitment to fostering empathy, generosity, and civic engagement among its children and families. Through signature initiatives such as the Summer Food Drive and the Fall “Sock It To Me” Drive, RCP has created meaningful opportunities for children to actively engage in volunteerism and learn the value of giving back. By encouraging involvement in causes such as supporting local veterans—whether through heartfelt letters, educational visits, or marching in the city’s Memorial Day parade—RCP helps young minds grow with an awareness of service and gratitude. These efforts reflect the program’s belief that strong values are nurtured through experience and community connection.

Our Greater Attleboro Holiday Initiatives

In addition to promoting volunteerism and civic pride, RCP strengthens community bonds by supporting families through inclusive holiday initiatives like the Turkey Brigade, Christmas is for Kids, and the RCP Holiday Fair. These events ensure that families are not only cared for during the holiday season but are also celebrated as integral parts of a thriving community. Signature events such as Stand Up for Families highlight and honor the many individuals and organizations that make RCP’s mission possible, with proceeds going toward the RCP Charitable Fund. By also hosting year-round family events—particularly the beloved Thanksgiving gathering where families enjoy a festive meal together—RCP cultivates a warm, welcoming environment where both children and adults feel connected.

How and Why Students In Our Preschool And Other Programs Benefit From Our Community Involvement

At its core, RCP understands that fostering strong inner-community ties and meaningful engagement with the broader community is essential in helping children develop compassion, empathy, and a lifelong appreciation for community values. Ultimately, community engagement strengthens not just our program, but the children we care for. It teaches them that they are part of something bigger—and that their voices, even at a young age, matter.

Because when a child feels connected to their community, the possibilities for growth are endless.

Why is this so important? Because routines bring comfort. When parents know what to expect each day—from morning circle time and outdoor play, to lunch and quiet rest—they feel more confident about leaving their child in our care. And when children start to settle into a predictable rhythm, they feel safer, more secure, and better able to learn and grow.

Sharing the schedule also helps parents support their child at home. If they know when nap time or snack time usually happens, they can adjust home routines to align more smoothly, which often makes transitions easier for everyone.

Whether it’s posted in our classrooms, included in your welcome packet, or talked through during your tour, our daily schedule isn’t just a list of times and activities—it’s a window into your child’s day and a way we build trust from the very beginning.

Have questions about our schedule? We’re always happy to walk you through it. After all, communication and connection are at the heart of everything we do!

Below you will find a sample of a daily schedule, each classroom may have slight variations in exact times but some items like meal times and rest time are the same throughout the program.

A Day in the Life of Your Preschooler!

Morning Drop-Off, Warm Welcome, and Breakfast

Each day begins with smiles and warm greetings from our teachers. Children hang up their backpacks, say goodbye to grown-ups, and jump right into fun with friends. During this time children are offered a healthy and delicious breakfast. Each day children are offered milk, fruit, and a whole grain rich item such as cereal, muffins, waffles, etc. Breakfast runs from 6:30am-9:15am each morning.

Learning Through Play

From building blocks and painting to exploring nature and dramatic play, every moment is a chance to grow social, emotional, and cognitive skills—without even realizing it!

Choice Centers & Small Groups

Children rotate through engaging centers like science, art, literacy, and math—with plenty of hands-on activities and teacher support. These centers happen throughout the day!

Circle Time

We gather to sing songs, read stories, and talk about the day ahead. It’s a time for connection and learning in a cozy group setting. To learn your child’s specific time for circle you can speak with your child’s teacher or check their posted daily schedule.

Outdoor Adventures

Fresh air and movement are essential! Our preschoolers love climbing, running, digging, and discovering the world outside. The children go outside twice a day, younger preschoolers go outside from 9:30am-10:30am and again from 3:00pm-3:45pm. Older preschoolers have their outside time from 10:30am-11:30am and again from 4:00pm-4:45pm.

Lunch & Afternoon Snack

Healthy meals and snacks are enjoyed together. We encourage independence, good manners, and trying new foods! We have lunch each day at 11:30am. Robbins offers children a fruit or vegetable and milk to go along with their lunch from home. (Packing lunch each day can be daunting, see the lunchtime flyer at the end of this blog for some great lunch ideas!) At 2:30pm children are offered a whole grain rich snack along with fruit juice.

Rest & Quiet Time

Midday means time to rest. Whether your child naps or just relaxes, we create a calm, cozy space for recharging. Rest time falls between 12:15pm-2:15pm. Children are encouraged to bring a small to mid-sized blanket and a small stuffed animal from home to help them relax.

Afternoon Fun & Pick-Up

The day winds down with more outdoor fun, music, stories, and one last chance to play before hugs at pick-up time.

Lunchbox Inspiration for Your Preschooler

We know packing lunch every day can feel like a big task—especially when you’re not sure what your little one will eat after a busy morning of learning and play! Here are some simple, kid-friendly lunch ideas to help you get started:

Easy & Nutritious Lunch Ideas:

• Mini Sandwiches or Wraps
  Try turkey and cheese, hummus and cucumber, or sun butter and jelly (nut-free!).
• Pasta Salad
  Whole wheat pasta with veggies and a little dressing or cheese cubes on the side.
• DIY Lunchables
  Sliced meats, cheese, whole grain crackers, and fruit slices.
• Veggie + Dip Combos
  Carrot sticks, cucumber, or bell pepper strips with ranch or hummus.
• Fruit & Yogurt Parfaits
  Layer yogurt, granola (nut-free), and fruit in a container for a sweet and healthy treat.
• Breakfast-for-Lunch
  Mini pancakes or waffles, hard-boiled eggs, and a side of berries.
• Cheese Quesadilla Slices
  Easy to make ahead and serve with guacamole or salsa (mild!).

Don’t Forget:

• A water bottle
• Ice packs to keep things fresh
• Easy-open containers your child can manage independently

We’re here to support your family in making lunch fun and stress-free. If you ever need ideas or guidance around food preferences or allergies, feel free to reach out—we’re happy to help!

Transitioning From Summer To Back-To-School Tips

Here are a few tips to help your child get ready:

1. Reestablish Routines

Start adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times now to get back into a school-day rhythm. A consistent routine helps children feel more secure and ready to learn.

2. Talk About What’s Coming

Whether it’s a new grade or a new teacher, talk with your child about what to expect. Use positive language to build excitement and confidence about school.

3. Read Together Daily

A short story time each day keeps children’s minds engaged and encourages a love of learning. Bonus: it’s also a great bonding time before bed!

4. Practice Independence

Encourage kids to do age-appropriate tasks like packing their backpack, choosing clothes, or cleaning up toys. This builds confidence and readiness for classroom routines.

Special Tips for New Kindergarteners

Starting kindergarten is a big step! Here are a few extra ways to help little ones feel prepared:

• Visit the School: If possible, take a walk around the school grounds or attend orientation so your child can become familiar with the new setting.

• Play “School” at Home: Role-play classroom scenarios to help them learn how to raise their hand, line up, or take turns. Working with your child on these skills will foster patience, self-control, and social awareness which contribute to positive social interactions. Through practicing turn-taking and waiting their turn children better understand impulse control, respect others, and gain a better understanding of fairness.

• Practice Separation: If your child hasn’t spent much time apart from family, start with short separations to build confidence and independence.

• Label Belongings: Make sure your child knows how to identify their backpack, lunchbox, and other items. If your child cannot read or recognize your name in print yet, try placing a special sticker on their items to help them identify their belongings.

Transitions can be challenging, but with a little preparation, your child can start the school year feeling confident and excited. From all of us at Robbins Children’s Programs, we wish you a happy and successful new school year!

As the temperatures rise and summer adventures begin, water play becomes a favorite way for children to cool off and have fun. Whether it’s at the pool, beach, sprinkler, or a backyard kiddie pool, water activities offer great opportunities for play, exploration, and learning. At Robbins Children’s Programs, we love to see children enjoying the summer — but we also know how important it is to stay safe around water.

Here are some essential tips to help keep your child safe while enjoying all the water fun this season:

Always Watch Your Child Near Water

Supervision is the number one way to prevent water-related accidents. Drowning can happen quickly and quietly — even in shallow water. Always keep your eyes on your child and stay within arm’s reach when they’re near any kind of water, including bathtubs, wading pools, and buckets.

Use Life Jackets, Not Floaties

If you’re near a lake, river, or ocean, or even at a public pool, make sure your child wears a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Inflatable toys and water wings can give a false sense of security but don’t offer real protection.

Secure Home Water Sources

If you have a pool at home, it should be fenced on all sides with a self-latching gate. Always empty kiddie pools when not in use and store them upside down. Even small amounts of standing water can pose a risk to young children.

Enroll in Water Safety Lessons

Many local programs offer water safety and swim lessons for young children. While lessons don’t replace supervision, they do help kids learn important skills like floating, treading water, and understanding water boundaries.

Teach Simple Water Rules

Help your child develop safe habits around water:

Always walk (never run) near the pool.

Ask an adult before getting in the water.

Never go near water alone.

Stay Cool and Covered

Don’t forget that sun safety is part of water safety too. Apply sunscreen often, provide shade when possible, and offer lots of water to drink. A sunburned or overheated child can quickly become tired or uncomfortable in the water.

By taking a few extra precautions and staying present during water play, we can all enjoy a fun, refreshing, and safe summer. Thank you for partnering with us to keep your children safe — both in and out of the classroom!

Wishing you a joyful and splash-filled season,

The RCP Team