The Value of Social Skills
Starting early developing social skills in children prepares them for healthier interactions in all aspects of their lives. Having social skills is an integral value in all functioning societies. Communicating properly with others, demonstrating good manners, expressing personal needs, and being considerate of feelings are all important components of solid social skills. Play to Grow […]
2019 Legislative Session: Minnesota Should Double Down on Early Education Now
By Art Rolnick, Ph.D., in partnership with Way to Grow. {Directed at low-income kids, at as early an age as possible, this could help close achievement gaps and give a huge return on investment.} When it comes to education and economic development, what policy is best for Minnesota’s future? If we focus on that question, […]
Tips on How to Handle Snowstorms and Extreme Cold
Snowstorms and Extreme Cold Winter storms and extreme cold can be difficult to prepare for, especially if you and your family have never experienced one. These adverse conditions create increased risks of car accidents, hypothermia, frostbite, and carbon monoxide poisoning in homes and cars. Winter storms and blizzards bring extreme cold, freezing rain, snow, ice, […]
Adopt-A-Family: A Great End to 2018
Every December, Way to Grow is able to reach even more families and provide basic needs, special treats, and a great start to the new year through our Adopt-A-Family program. Started through a partnership with Allina Health, Adopt-A-Family allows churches, companies, and individuals to sponsor a Way to Grow family during what many of us […]
Investing Time and Energy
Barry Lee always thought his calling was to be a teacher, but life has a way of working in surprising ways. It wasn’t until after a successful 40-year career in the private sector that he finally found himself sitting in a tiny chair, surrounded by children in a classroom. For the past 10 years since […]
Creating Lasting Bonds
On his first day of preschool, Daniel could barely speak a word. A nervous child and unsure of his surroundings, Daniel didn’t play or interact with any of the other children. His only method of communication was guiding his teacher to what he needed, and often he would burst with frustration. “Imagine being in a […]
Thank you, Shine Supporters!
This past Saturday night, something magical happened. Our supporters, sponsors, table hosts, staff, and board of directors all helped make our 2018 Shine Celebration such a memorable experience. Whether it was singing, testimonies, or our new Way to Grow videos we debuted – it all came together in the name of early education and the […]
People to Look Up To
Many a day for the past nine years, a little white bus has rumbled through the streets of Minneapolis carrying precious cargo to and from preschool. Billowing with energy and enthusiasm, the man behind the wheel is more than a bus driver—he is a caretaker, a friend, and a role model to each and every […]
Immigration, Loss, & Trauma
by Lori A. Harris, LSW, MSW in partnership with Way to Grow and Mom Enough Perhaps your family immigration experience was a relatively easy journey, one supported by ample resources and an established, welcoming community. Life in your family’s country of origin may have presented minor challenges or you have immigrated for opportunity, education, or […]
Inspiring Opportunity and Building Legacy
Always driven and confident in her abilities, Mina graduated high school in 2010, ready to continue her schooling. However, a year later she found it difficult to balance her new motherhood with her education, so she put school on hold to raise her young son, Itachi. Early on, Mina discovered that Itachi was struggling with […]