The Developmental Science of Risky Play – Why Challenge, Risk and Outdoor Exploration Matter in the Early Years
The word “risk” tends to make parents uneasy, and understandably so. But in the context of early childhood development, risk is not the opposite of safety. It is, in fact, a necessary ingredient in children’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. A substantial body of research now supports what experienced early childhood educators have long understood: children who are given the opportunity to engage with managed risk in play develop more robustly across a range of developmental domains than those whose play is consistently risk-free. Here’s what the science says, and how Papilio approaches it in practice.
What Learning Really Looks Like for Babies, Toddlers and Preschoolers
Ask a child what they did at childcare today and the answer is almost always some variation of “played.” Which is, to be fair, entirely accurate, and also a significant understatement.
What happens in a quality early learning environment isn’t separate from play. It is play, shaped by educators who understand the developmental science behind every activity they design, every question they ask, and every moment they choose to step back and let a child work something out for themselves.
Child Development Milestones: What to Expect from Birth to School Age
The early years of a child’s life are extraordinary. In just five years, a newborn becomes a curious, communicative, socially aware little person, ready to take on the world of school and everything beyond it.
A Season of Nourishment: Exploring Our Autumn Menu at Papilio Early Learning
As the air turns crisp and the days begin to slow, autumn invites a sense of warmth, comfort, and connection.
At Papilio Early Learning, this seasonal shift is reflected in the meals we share with children each day, thoughtfully prepared dishes that nourish growing bodies, spark curiosity, and bring a sense of calm to busy little routines.
How Early Friendships Build Resilience in the Preschool Years
There is something beautiful about watching young children form friendships.
The tentative approach. The negotiation over who gets to be the “shop keeper.” The repair after a disagreement. The way they circle back the next day as if nothing happened.
To adults, it may look like simple play. But in those small, everyday interactions, children are building resilience. And resilience – in the early years – grows in relationship.
Big Feelings Explained: What’s Normal for Toddlers and Preschoolers?
Big feelings can feel all-consuming, for children and for the adults supporting them.
One moment your child is happily playing, the next they’re overwhelmed by frustration, disappointment, or exhaustion. Often, it happens at the end of a long day, during a transition, or when words don’t quite come easily enough to explain how they feel.
Tips From an Educator to Help Your Child Sleep Better
If sleep has felt unsettled lately, you’re not alone.
Many families experience periods where bedtime becomes harder, night wakings return, or routines that once worked suddenly don’t. It can be tiring, and at times unsettling, especially when you’re doing your best to support your child and nothing seems to stick.
Fresh, Nourishing & Beautifully Balanced: Our New Summer Menu Has Arrived at Papilio
As parents, we think a lot about what our children eat, especially when they’re spending their day learning, exploring and growing in an early learning environment. We want food that feels thoughtful. Food that’s made with care. Food that supports their little bodies and minds through every milestone.
Screens & Under-5s: How Papilio Encourages Healthy Digital Habits from the Start
In today’s world, screens are everywhere, from video calls with grandparents to digital storybooks and classroom smart screens. For families with young children, the question isn’t whether technology should be used, but how to use it meaningfully.
Why Two Years of Kindergarten or Preschool Could Give Your Child the Best Start to School
The years before school are some of the most magical and important in a child’s life. Every question asked, every story told, and every friendship formed helps shape who they’ll become.
That’s why many families are now choosing two years of kindergarten or preschool, giving children more time to develop confidence, curiosity, and essential skills before taking the next big step into school.