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When Daycare Isn’t Enough — 5 Simple Learning Strategies for Busy or Working Parents

  • youcanteachyourtot
  • Sep 15
  • 3 min read

Updated: Oct 1

Let’s be real — the early childhood education system in the U.S. is under pressure. While many preschools and daycare centers are doing their best, staffing shortages and limited resources often leave them stretched too thin.


For many parents, especially working parents, that can be frustrating. Especially when you worry your child isn’t getting the attention, enrichment, or early learning support they need during these critical developmental years.


But here’s the good news: even with a full schedule, you can make a meaningful impact at home — without needing hours of extra time or a teaching degree.


In this post, you'll find simple, doable strategies to support your child's learning — built for real life and busy routines.


Working with your child outside of preschool or childcare can give them the educational support they need.
Working with your child outside of preschool or childcare can give them the educational support they need.

Whether you love your child’s daycare, feel stuck with limited options, or simply don’t have time to explore alternatives, there are easy, meaningful ways you can support your child’s learning at home.


Best of all — they don’t require a big budget or tons of time. Just consistency, creativity, and care.


1. Read, Read, Read!

Reading is one of the most powerful--and easy!--tools you have as a parent or caregiver.


Make reading part of your daily evening or bedtime routine — even 10 minutes a day counts! And don’t forget, library books are completely free and often include Storytimes and learning events.


Why It Works:

  • Builds language, vocabulary, and early literacy

  • Supports pattern recognition and sequencing (key for math readiness)

  • Encourages curiosity and world knowledge

  • Strengthens the parent-child bond



2. Use Flashcards--Even On The Go!

Flashcards are a simple, portable tool that can be used almost anywhere — in the car, while waiting at the doctor’s office, while you are cooking dinner or during quiet time at home.


Why They Work:

  • Reinforce letter recognition and phonics

  • Introduce new vocabulary using engaging pictures

  • Encourage repetition and memory retention


🛒 Check your local dollar store, or click here for printable, Montessori-inspired flashcards.


3-in-1 Alphabet to Reading Cards (Download & Print)
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3. Try Hands-On Learning Activities

Young children learn best through touch, movement, and sensory play. That’s why hands-on learning is so effective — it turns play into purposeful education!


Tips for Hands-On Learning:

  • Use materials children can safely touch and manipulate

  • Try self-correcting puzzles they can complete on their own to build independence and problem-solving

  • Incorporate different textures, tools, and movement--i.e. pieces they can easily touch and manipulate or textured letters and numbers


🛒 Try Amazon for a great selection of self-correcting puzzles. Or Browse our printable hands-on learning activities to get started.


Fall Fun Lowercase Alphabet Pumpkin Placemat – Printable ABC Learning Activity
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Printable Counting Mat for Toddlers Preschool
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Printable Alphabet Learning Mat PDF
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4. Embrace Educational Media (in Moderation)

Not all screen time is created equal! When used intentionally and with age-appropriate time limits, educational media can reinforce core concepts and expose your child to music, language, movement, and repetition.


They also provide you with ideas for things you can do with your child, while encouraging positive independence!


And did you know many platforms a backed by research and designed by teachers?


4 of Our Favorite Toddler, Preschool and Kindergarten Educational Platforms:

  • ABCmouse (Subscription)

  • Starfall (Free + Paid)

  • Jack Hartmann (YouTube)

  • Miss Rachel (YouTube)



Read, Set, Teach! Parent/Caregiver Resource Guide (Download & Print)
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5. Don’t Do It Alone!

At You Can Teach Your Tot, we offer tools, support, and community to help you become your child’s favorite teacher — even if it’s just part-time.


We Offer:

  • Webinars for parents and caregivers

  • Printable learning activities

  • Hands-on resources inspired by Montessori principles

  • Practical coaching for real-life learning moments


Remember, whether your child is in a struggling daycare or a great one — what you do at home matters. 


And we’re here to help you bridge the gap.


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We get it — knowing where to start can be overwhelming. That’s why we offer a supportive downloadable 1-hour Parent/Caregiver Power Webinar with Resources that:

  • Explains how and why your child is ready to learn now

  • Shares simple, everyday learning activities

  • Includes a 15-page downloadable resource guide

  • Comes with FREE printable alphabet flashcards

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