Principal Lisa Sherrington Boyd's profile picture

Principal Lisa Sherrington Boyd

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@principal_lisa

Sharing Practical Baby & Toddler Help with sprinkles of encouragement
⭐️34 Years Nanny-Teacher-Principal
🪴Family Educator 🇦🇪 Community
⭐️RIE Advocate

United States
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Recent Posts

Post by principal_lisa
122
2024-11-13

Do We Need to Rethink ‘Sit Still’ Expectations for Little Children. 🌿Lately, I’ve heard so many parents expressing frustration or even embarrassment when their little ones aren’t sitting still or participating in group activities. It seems like there’s an unspoken expectation that children—especially those under three—should conform to structured adult-led sessions. But here’s the truth: it’s not developmentally appropriate to expect a toddler to sit still for long periods of time. It can happen, but sometimes it doesn’t. 🌿Children under three are naturally curious, highly physical, and constantly exploring the world around them. Their brains are developing rapidly, and that development relies heavily on hands-on experiences, active exploration, and movement. “sit down” “ listen” “ sit still” Can you imagine being being three and hearing this? 🌿The truth is when I see children under the age of 4 placed on chairs in a circle and being “ taught” It breaks my heart to see it and I rarely see no more than 30% of the children enjoying the experience. It looks torturous to me. What is it about being still that adults seem to be so keen on? I mean, think about it—why are we taking children away from their most powerful way of learning play… I have learnt that children need more than just passive participation. They need engagement, exploration, and individual attention. Little children learn best when they’re *actively* participating. They’re not meant to be passive listeners at this age. Expecting them to stay still and quietly listen to a teacher or follow a structured activity often leads to disengagement, frustration, and many missed opportunities for learning. A child may wander off, explore resources , or interact with toys during group time—and that’s not a bad thing. That’s learning in action! Yippee! Their attention may shift, but it doesn’t mean they’re not learning. In fact, it’s often the self-motivated activities—the ones they choose for themselves—that hold their attention most effectively. We know that children thrive when they have the freedom to explore and follow their own curiosities. Tell me what you think 🤔 below 👇🏽

Post by principal_lisa
461
2024-10-09

You heard right! A school in Dubai with its own ice rink. @bcacademy.school 🧊 ⛸️ #itscoming BC Academy have just opened right next to the Burj al Arab. I couldn’t believe what I was seeing. Wow just Wow. There’s a story here though… 🙌A Mum of three on a mission to give her children the best she could. She couldn’t find it, so she created it! @albina_balacity @albina_balacity opened her first Kindergarten in Tatarstan 12 years ago and has grown and realized her dream to offer multi-lingual education now here in Dubai. I went along to see... Every possible resource has been carefully sourced from around the world to develop higher-order thinking skills in their students. The owners have their own children in the school and are very passionate educators. ❤️There is a strong emphasis on value based education with every aspect leading back to their core values. One of the schools values is reflection. The ability to self-reflect is a super power. With a dedicated robotics teacher, Primary school science labs, STEAM laboratories. This is a school with a firm eye on future proof skills. Even the toddler’s indoor playroom was designed as a desert 🐪 developing into the future. There is a nursery and children can start at 1 and carry on through into primary. The children have a dedicated dinning room with fresh flowers on every table. They use @babyeatsuae and the children were actually eating their lunch. I stayed on chatting for ages for a few cups of tea and found we were very aligned. I think we are lucky to have these guys in Dubai as they have brought fresh ideas to the education scene here. They have just opened and spaces are filling. I predict this school will be full very very soon. The ice rink is coming very soon so if your child loves to play ice hockey or figure skate, you can get your practice in here. The school is attracting a range of nationalities and is providing support in a wide range of languages. I am pretty sure I will be back here again soon Good luck to @bcacademy.nursery and @bcacademy.school #school #schoolsandchildcare #school #nurserysharjah #nurserydubai #dubaikids #dubaiicerink #dubaiicerinkskatingacademy

Post by principal_lisa
40
2024-12-10

Do you agree? What would you add to this list? I could go on and on. Children need xxxxxx more than presents this holiday season. Write your opinion below 👇🏽 Sensible bed times Wholesome food Boundaries that are respectful and consistent Experience over consumption PS: Video taken at @bcacademy.nursery Thank you to all the families that share their children with us. #happyholidays . . . #childhoodunplugged #letthembelittle #littleandbrave #babiesofig #mytinymoments #runwildmychild #littlefierceones #childofig #toddlersogif #toddlerhood #watchthemgrow #littlepiecesofchildhood #celebratechildhood #alldaykids

Post by principal_lisa
22
2024-12-09

Today was all about connection, joy, and learning! ✨ Our Festive Parent-Toddler Breakfast Workshop and Pyjama Party brought parents and toddlers together for hands-on activities, sensory play, and a magical story time with our Director of Early Years, Lisa @principal_lisa These moments are more than just fun – they’re opportunities to bond, explore, and grow together. 💛 👶 Ready to join us for our next event? Follow us for more updates and exciting activities at BC Academy Nursery & Kindergarten! #bcacademy #britishcurriculum #earlychildhoodeducation #britishnurserydubai #handsonlearning #childdevelopment #preschooldubai #playandlearn #kindergartenactivities #britishnurserydubai

Post by principal_lisa
43
2024-12-06

We hosted our very first Festive Toddler Breakfast at BC Academy, and it was nothing short of magical! The little ones had a blast with hands-on activities like water play, sand fun, and playdough exploration, all while parents joined in to share special moments. Laughter filled the air as toddlers explored, learned, and played together. A healthy breakfast brought everyone together, and storytime with Ketchup on Your Reindeer added a touch of festive wonder. It was a morning full of joy, connection, and holiday cheer 😍🤩 Thank you to all the parents and toddlers who made this morning so special—we can’t wait to see you again soon! ☺️ @principal_lisa @natalyosmann #FestiveToddlerBreakfast #BCAcademyKindergarten #LearningThroughPlay #ParentChildBonding #DubaiNursery #HolidayJoy

Post by principal_lisa
19
2024-12-05

Hmmm…What if we stepped into the body of a baby or toddler at meal time? What would we feel, see and think? 🤔 If you have a baby or child that has a touch of the “fussiness” this post is for you. Read on PS: This video features new @kokoshi.ae wipes created by Mum Mariya. They do the job and they are easy on the pocket like their non-sweat diapers. A wipes warmer may seem an indulgent luxury, but I reckon a warm wipe could make a difference to a meal time experience. In the UK they are a deal breaker as it’s often so cold. I could some on @desertcart Also featured is @ezpzfunme a baby utensil range that I have been advocating for over the last 5 years. You will see and feel the difference on first sight. Finally @bapronbaby.arabia is my absolute fav! it goes over babies head and ties at the back. It’s super soft, easy to wash and fast drying. You only need one. ☝️ ok let’s chat. I’m asked by Mamas several times a day why their baby and toddler won’t eat. My DM’s are full of the word “ fussy” I start asking questions first… I’m looking for root causes of unsettled babies and toddlers. I often discover that the little one will eat well at nursery or with Grandma. This means it’s not the food, it’s where, how, when the meal time runs potentially. Look for the variables. Ask someone to test my theory and come up behind you with a cold wipe and wipe your face when you were not expecting it or scrap your mouth with a spoon multiple times during a meal. #seewhatimean ❤️🤣 #fussybaby #fussybabyproblems #fussytoddler #fussyeaters #fussyeatersolutions #fussyeatingchildren #mealtime #toddlerlife #toddleractivities . . . #mumlifeuk #mumlife #mumblog #mummyblogger #mummybloggeruk #motherhood #mumoftwo #mummylife #parenting #parenthood #mumlifeunfiltered #mumlifeunplugged #mumsofinsta #toddler #preschool #playathome #mumdaughter #mumanddaughter #mumsofinstagram #family

Post by principal_lisa
41
2024-12-05

Join us. 🙌It’s Silly Season so that means Silly Pajamas for you @bcacademy.nursery with @principal_lisa. Would you like a place? Arrive at 930am for “ Twas the night before Christmas” Story and play session. There is absolutely no charge, you are our honored guest’s as part of our ongoing commitment to early education for all families. It’s a perfect morning for families with children under 5 years. This is a parent and child nursery class session guided by @principal_lisa and the team @bcacademy.nursery Be our guest 💕 Comment below 👇🏽 for a booming link. We have 25 spaces in total. With love and silliness @principal_lisa and @bcacademy.nursery . . . #mumlifeuk #mumlife #mumblog #mummyblogger #mummybloggeruk #motherhood #mumoftwo #mummylife #parenting #parenthood #mumlifeunfiltered #mumlifeunplugged #mumsofinsta #toddler #preschool #playathome #mumdaughter #mumanddaughter #mumsofinstagram #family #love #toddleractivity #toddlerclothes #toddlerlife #fatherhood #dadlife #parent #parentlife #children #kids

Post by principal_lisa
77
2024-12-04

✨ ¡Oh, la, la!We’ve cooked up something super especial for the increíbles adultos in our community—say hello to our customizable Navidad dungaree🎄🎁 This unique piece was lovingly crafted for the encantadora @principal_lisa who’s bringing holiday cheer to the classroom♥️🌟👩‍🏫 At La Tortuga Marisa, spreading joy is our specialty—for todos, big and small. Whether you’re dreaming of a festive matching outfits for cozy family pictures, brunches, holiday parties - we’ve got you covered! 💚✨ Want your own personalized piece to rock this Navidad season? Let’s turn your ideas into reality. 📫💌Slide into our DMs now, and let’s make your holiday wardrobe as merry and bright as you are! 🎅🌟 P.S. These dungarees are limited-edition and made with extra cariño, so don’t wait too long! 🎄🎁 Spread the cheer, wear the joy.💚 #Christmas #FestiveSeason #FestiveCheer #Festive #Fun #Joy #Laughter #LaTortugaMarisa #ChristmasDungaree #Navidad #christmascollection

Post by principal_lisa
51
2024-12-03

This one is for Pinterest failing ,guilt-ridden-tired Mumma’s. Let’s give guilt and “ I should do xxxx more” the heave ho! “I’m bored.” The moment when the puppy 🐶 eyes appear and the urge to entertain them kicks in. Let’s reframe. Maybe 🤔 boredom is actually a blessing**. ✨ Instead of rushing to fill the silence with activities, consider this: unstructured time helps children develop crucial life skills. No need to sign up for another after school sports club. Boredom sparks creativity, nurtures independence, and encourages problem-solving. When children are bored, they’re given the freedom to tap into their imagination, think critically, and discover talents. It’s in these quiet moments that children can make new discoveries, ask unusual questions, and experience real growth. Whilst it may feel uncomfortable at first… Rather than planning Pinterest-perfect crafts or filling every moment with structured activities, try stepping back and letting children figure it out on their own. How: Open-ended toys like magnetites, lego, construction, cardboard, drapes of material for den making help to provide a multitude of options. I’m thinking… with today’s constant access to screens, it’s more important than ever to embrace boredom. It offers children the chance to slow down, build inner dialogue, and develop the mental space to reflect. We all need that. I see deep learning in school when we turn the children loose into a well-resourced play space. I love to watch this magic. Toys are so dead end, no wonder children play with the boxes more. “I’m bored,” instead of jumping in with a solution, try this: You could encourage them to explore their own ideas. “ I’m doing this, you can choose what you do” I am a fan of setting aside 20-30 minutes of 1-1 time per day where possible within families. This can be framed with rituals your child learns to see as predictable. DM for my tip sheet. #BoredomIsGood #CreativeKids #ParentingUnplugged #LetThemExplore #RaisingThinkers #UnstructuredPlay #MindfulParenting #ThePowerOfBoredom #EmpoweredKids #SlowParenting #FosteringCreativity

Post by principal_lisa
141
2024-12-02

🎉 Happy 53rd UAE National Day! 🇦🇪 Today, we celebrate the unity, pride, and incredible heritage of the UAE. Last Friday, we came together as a community to honour this special day through heartfelt performances, cultural activities, and meaningful experiences that connected us to the traditions of this great nation. A heartfelt thank you to all the families, friends, and staff who joined us and made the celebration so memorable. Your energy and support truly brought this day to life! Here’s to 53 years of greatness and many more to come. Happy UAE National Day! 🎉 #UAENationalDay #53YearsOfUnity #UAEHeritage #BCACelebrates #PrideAndCulture #bcacademy

Post by principal_lisa
45
2024-12-01

Zero loathing on my watch! #selfdoubtbegone Come on! Be your biggest champion… Be someone else’s. I can guarantee that you have done your best with the skills, the resources and the knowledge you had in every moment. You know what? So has everyone else. We are all learning. I can look in the mirror and see my wrinkles, my loose skin, my sun damaged face if I want. I can choose to see my wobbly bits. I can remember that last week I said the wrong thing. I can remember how hurt I felt etc when someone said this and that. I can look at myself acting very silly with children and say “ what does she look like”’. I can imagine people thinking “ who does she think she is” when I held my head high and put my best foot forward. Or I can champion myself and everyone I meet. Life is so much easier then. Ps i’m dying to see Wicked the movie 🍿 Featured @tedbaker @mybebar @bcacademy.school #wickedmovie #selflove . “I learned a long time ago the wisest thing I can do is be on my own side, be an advocate for myself and others like me.” Maya Angelou . . #selfcare #selflove #selfcaretips #mentalhealth #selfcarethreads #wellness #skincare #mindfulness #mentalhealthawareness #selfcarematters #healing #selfcaresunday #mentalhealthmatters #selfcareroutine #selfworth #selfcaresis #selfcareaccount #selfcareday #skincaretips #glowingskin threads #loveyourself #wellbeing #l #selfcarehacks #selfcarepage

Post by principal_lisa
152
2024-11-30

Come with me to our baby shower @bountybeets @lemeridienminaseyahi Congratulations @kev.o.b and @missautumnsays Thanks to @elena_aleksandrovi4 for the incredible event management #bestie Thanks for the diapers @kokoshi.ae Testing out @doonamiddleeast Well done to all all baby romper artists ❤️ A glorious afternoon of fun and excitement! #excited #babyshower #instababy . . . #babyshower . . . . #baby #babyboy #babygirl #babylove #babyshower #newborn #babyfashion #babies #babyphotography #cutebaby #kids #babiesofinstagram #instababy #babymodel #diaperbackpack #backpackdiaperbag #diaperbagpack #diaperbags #diaperbag #babybag #diaperbagdisney #diaperbagbackpack #maternity