Welcome to January 2026: A Fresh Start at Robbins Nest Child Care Services
- Keri Robbins
- Jan 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 7
It is officially 2026! We hope your holiday season was restful, joyful, and filled with special moments with loved ones. As we settle back into our routines this January, we enjoy a fresh start to the new year. The calm, cozy rhythm that winter brings is a welcome change. This time of year is perfect for reinforcing consistency, reconnecting after the holidays, and easing gently back into daily schedules.
Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
This month, we also honor and remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. His enduring legacy and commitment to equality, kindness, and justice inspire us all. Dr. King’s work reminds us of the importance of modeling compassion, respect, and inclusion for our children from the very beginning. His vision continues to guide meaningful conversations about fairness, empathy, and the world we hope to build for future generations.
“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”
~ Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Safety First: Feeding Guidelines for Your Baby
3–6 Months
During this stage, your baby should continue to receive only breast milk or formula. These provide all the nutrients and hydration your baby needs for healthy growth and development. Babies are not developmentally ready for solid foods, water, or other drinks until around 6 months of age. Introducing anything other than breast milk or formula too early can increase the risk of choking and may interfere with proper nutrient absorption. Always follow your pediatrician’s guidance and watch for readiness signs before beginning solids.
6–12 Months
This is an exciting stage for building independence and confidence at mealtimes. Take time to learn which foods pose choking risks and avoid them. Offer only soft, age-appropriate options cut into safe sizes. Encourage your baby to self-feed with their fingers and begin practicing with a cup containing a small amount of water. Always sit with your baby during meals to supervise and share the experience together. Spills and messes are a natural part of learning at this age, so embrace the mess and enjoy watching your baby explore, practice, and grow.
Learning & Development
Here are some activities suggested by the CDC Milestones app that you can do with your child this month to encourage their development:
Reading Corner
Did you know children who are read to for 20 minutes a day are exposed to 1.8 million words per year? Here are some books we are reading this month:
Gentle Sleep Tip
If your child’s sleep feels off after the holidays or travel, it is possible to get back on track. Start by returning to your pre-holiday bedtime routine and offering a bit of extra support as your child readjusts. Some pushback is normal, so stay patient, reassuring, and consistent. Your child will settle back in with time.
If you’d like personalized guidance to make the transition easier, schedule a call with me. I’m happy to help you create a plan that works for your family.
That’s all for now! We’re wishing our nursery families a peaceful January filled with joy, love, and a little extra sleep. Thank you for being such a special part of our Robbins Nest community.
-Keri Robbins
Affiliate Disclosure
Some links in this newsletter may be affiliate links. This means that at no additional cost to you, Robbins Nest Nursery may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase through those links. I only share products or resources that I genuinely trust and believe may be helpful to families. Thank you for supporting our small business!
Comments