P&L Blog

Navigating Extreme Cold with Preschoolers

When the thermometer dips into the negatives and the wind starts to howl, the “great outdoors” can feel a little less great—especially when you have a preschooler. For 3-to-5-year-olds, snow is pure magic. For parents, excessive cold is a logistics puzzle involving layers, safety concerns, and the inevitable “I have to go to the bathroom”…

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IMPORTANT RECALL ALERT: ByHeart Baby Formula Recalled Nationwide

The safety of our little ones is paramount, and when a product designed for infant nutrition is recalled, it raises serious concern and anxiety for parents everywhere. We are writing to provide essential information regarding the nationwide voluntary recall of ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula by the manufacturer, ByHeart. This expanded recall includes all batches…

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Standing Together: Domestic Violence Awareness Month

October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month, a time dedicated to shedding light on the pervasive issue of domestic violence, supporting survivors, and working towards a future free from abuse. In Montgomery County, numerous organizations are on the front lines, providing critical services, education, and advocacy. This month, we recognize their tireless efforts and encourage everyone…

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Be An Advocate for PA Children

With the no approved budget in PA and a partial shutdown of the US government, concerns are escalating for PreK Counts and Head Start programs across the state. We need your voice to help elected officials understand the real impact this impasse is having on you, your business, your staff, and the families you serve.…

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Your Preschooler’s Fall Wardrobe Checklist

  The leaves are changing, the air is getting crisper, and it’s time to transition your little one’s closet from summer shorts to cozy fall layers! Dressing a preschooler for autumn is all about comfort, durability, and versatility. Here’s a simple checklist to help you get their wardrobe ready for all the playground adventures, pumpkin…

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Creating a New School Routine for Your Preschooler

The first day of preschool is a big milestone, not just for your child, but for the whole family. As you trade in late summer mornings for alarm clocks and backpacks, establishing a new routine is key to a smooth and happy transition. A good routine provides a sense of security and predictability, which is…

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Keeping Preschoolers Energized with Healthy Summer Snacks!

With summer in full swing, our little preschoolers are bursting with energy! While it’s tempting to reach for convenience, fueling those active bodies and growing minds with nutritious snacks is key. Healthy snacks not only provide essential vitamins and minerals but also help regulate blood sugar, keep hunger at bay, and prevent those dreaded meltdowns.But…

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Fun Ways to Fight Summer Boredom in Preschoolers!

While we dream of endless sunshine and carefree days, the reality of summer with preschoolers can sometimes include a familiar, dreaded phrase: “I’m bored!” Let’s explore some simple, engaging ways to turn those moments of lull into opportunities for growth, creativity, and good old-fashioned fun. Embrace the Outdoors (Even Your Backyard!) Summer is the perfect…

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Keeping Preschoolers Safe This Firework Season

The Fourth of July is just around the corner, and for many, that means fireworks! The dazzling lights and booming sounds are a hallmark of summer celebrations. But for parents of preschoolers, these same exciting displays can also be a source of worry. Their little ones are curious, impulsive, and simply don’t understand the dangers…

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It’s A Heatwave!

Heatwaves can be challenging, especially when you have preschoolers. Their little bodies are more susceptible to heat-related illnesses, and their endless energy often means they don’t want to slow down. But with a few proactive measures and a good dose of creativity, you can keep your little ones safe, cool, and entertained even when the…

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Fort Washington Infant Toddler & Preschool End of Year Celebration Photos

https://playandlearn.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Fathers-Breakfast-and-End-of-Year-Celebration-ITPS.mp4 What a spectacular way to cap off a fantastic school year! Our recent end-of-year preschool celebrations including Father’s Breakfast and picnic was filled with joy, laughter, and unforgettable moments. The highlight for many was undoubtedly a magician’s performance at our end of year picnic. The magician’s playful banter and impressive tricks kept both children…

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Summer Sun Safety Tips

Summer is upon us, and with it comes endless opportunities for splashing, playing, and making wonderful memories with our preschoolers! While we all love the warmth and brightness of the sun, it’s super important to remember that those little ones have delicate skin that needs extra protection. Sunburns can happen quickly and are not only…

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Thank You to Our Play and Learn Families and Friends!

We want to extend our sincerest gratitude to everyone who joined us for the annual Granny Scholarship Fundraiser at the Elmwood Park Zoo on May 30th! Your presence made the event a roaring success, and we were so thrilled to share a wonderful evening with all of you. It was a joy to see so…

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Explore a Little Risky Play

Sometimes it feels like our little ones today are so protected from getting hurt that they don’t get to explore the world as much as generations before them! While it is the job of families and teachers to keep our children safe, it is also important to let them spread their wings.  When children are…

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Family Wellness through Outdoor Time

As families, our schedules can easily become so busy if we let ourselves keep adding on activities and then not leaving time open for important things like outdoor time as a family.  Spending time outdoors together can create lots of bonding memories for you and your children and there is nothing more important than strong…

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Meet the Moment:  Why Advocacy Matters Right Now

Interview with Kim Follett, Chief Executive Officer P&L : Can you tell us when and how you became an advocate for Early Childhood Education? KF: I came to the early childhood education (ECE) field seven years ago, relatively new to this space but with 15 years of experience in nonprofit management. I was unexpectedly recruited…

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Daylight Savings Time Begins on Sunday

Daylight Saving Time (DST) can present unique challenges for young children. Their internal clocks are still developing, making them particularly sensitive to changes in routine. Here’s a breakdown of the effects and some tips for managing them:   Tips for Helping Children Adjust: By taking these steps, you can help your young child navigate the…

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February’s Inservice Training Focused on Play

Play & Learn held a Professional Development Inservice Day on February 17, 2025 which brought 145 teachers and Directors together from 12 centers who collectively received 870 hours of training.  In keeping with our Core Values, “Elevate Play” was the theme for February’s Inservice Training which offered an array of session related to play including:…

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"Elevate Play" Was The Topic For This Month's In-Service