Harmony Spotlight

Infant Room at Harmony Foxmoor

Congratulations to Lauren Campbell, who is pictured upon her recent graduation from Rider University with a bachelor's degree in psychology. Lauren has been at Harmony for over five years, working part time as she completed her college studies, now as a full time as a teacher in our infant room. Lauren's creative energy is put to additional good use on the weekends, when she works as a hair stylist.

Parenting Tip of the Week

Hosting Your Child's Birthday Party at Home

While the possibilities for having your child's birthday parted hosted at a restaurant, gym facility or salon are endless, it can also eat into the family budget during the economic downturn we're experiencing. Here are some helpful hints for keeping it simple at home.

Limit the guest list
One guest for each of your child's years (3 guests for a child turning 3) is a good rule of thumb. Resist the temptation to invite the whole preschool class.

There is no law regarding goody bags
It becomes a game of adult one-upmanship; who can create the best or most expensive bag. Think about what your child really values, and not from the adult perspective. Send them home with a cupcake if you must.

You need a plan
Paints and markers to decorate a table cloth, a bean bag toss, traditional party games, 20-30 minutes in duration in case one of them doesn't succeed. Remember that kids need to move; scavenger hunts in the back yard, sack races, pinatas are all timeless and popular.

It is not a wedding
Keep it simple so that you and your child are not compelled to top each year's event the next year. The valuable, enduring friendships are cemented by the simple things; sharing of time and experiences that don't always come with a hefty pricetag.