One pillar in Westcliff Early Learning Academy’s philosophy is an unwavering dedication to nurturing a profound connection between children and the natural world that surrounds them. With the overwhelming influence of screens and digital devices, we stand by our mission to reintroduce children to the wonders of nature. Richard Louz, author of "Last Child [...]

At Westcliff Early Learning Academy in Irvine Calif., our commitment to nature is woven into every aspect of our curriculum. We believe in providing children with opportunities to connect with the natural world, and one of the most captivating ways to do so is through the medium of clay. Clay, with its earthy scent [...]

As parents, we've all experienced that overwhelming feeling when we see our child struggling. It's like a punch to the gut, a wave of emotions crashing over us. Our instinct is to jump in and rescue them, to shield them from hardship or pain. After all, we want nothing more than for our children [...]

It's flu season in Orange County! And as parents, one of our top priorities is keeping our children healthy, especially during the cold and flu season. While we often turn to medicines and supplements, we sometimes overlook one of the most powerful tools in our arsenal: food. Yes, you read that right – food [...]

Communication development in children is a fascinating journey, marked by significant milestones. As educators at Westcliff Early Learning Academy in Irvine, Calif., it's crucial to be aware of these milestones to support and nurture a child's language skills effectively. One essential aspect of communication development is the distinction between receptive and expressive communication. Let's dive [...]

Let's explore the incredible skill of developing a second language during our children’s formative years. It's a well-known fact that this endeavor carries numerous advantages, and what's truly intriguing is how seamlessly it aligns with the innate abilities of the young mind. Learning a new language can undoubtedly be challenging for adults, but for [...]

Let's explore 15 simple Montessori and Reggio inspired activities designed using common household materials that you already have at home. These activities are ideal for toddlers and preschoolers, although older children can certainly engage with them independently. While setting them up can be rewarding, remember, as a busy parent at home, they don't have [...]

As parents, we navigate through the sea of information on parenting, often receiving conflicting advice that leaves us perplexed. But, what if we could have just one technique to diffuse conflict, and set boundaries while building love and trust with our children? Let’s look into a neuroscience-based parenting model that emphasizes empathy, compassion, and [...]

The holiday season is upon us! Families are on the hunt for toys that not only bring joy, but also support their preschoolers' development without overstimulation. Montessori- and Reggio-based toys are known for their ability to promote various aspects of a child's growth. Let us give you some  insight into the best investment toys based [...]

Have you ever found yourself frustrated when your child forgets to say 'thank you' or displays rudeness at a formal family gathering? Perhaps you wish your child would express more gratitude. With an abundance of food, gifts, toys, schedule shifts and traditions, there's a lot of pressure on children to show appreciation. How can [...]

The Westcliff Early Learning Academy broke ground at its inaugural campus Monday, October 9th, 2023 in front of Westcliff University leadership, members of the Greater Irvine Chamber of Commerce, leaders from RAM Construction, and the enthusiastic support of the Westcliff University cheer squad. President and CEO of Westcliff University, Dr. Lee, said, "The groundbreaking of [...]

Welcoming a newborn into your life brings joy, wonder, and a whole lot of new experiences—including understanding their unique eat-and-play sleep cycle. Those initial weeks are a dance of short play periods and long naps, and as they grow, more playtime emerges. As our infant teachers know, this cycle isn't set in stone. Sometimes hunger [...]

Tantrums – they're a normal part of your child's growth journey. Here are some techniques we use at Westcliff Early Learning Academy to help support children when they are feeling dysregulated.

In this article, we'll explore the significance of finger dexterity and share engaging activities for parents and caregivers to promote this vital fine motor skill.