January 2026 Newsletter
- Keri Robbins
- Jan 1
- 4 min read
January 2026
Robbins Nest Child Care Services
It is officially 2026, and 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 are enjoying a fresh start to the new year and the calm, cozy rhythm that winter often brings. This time of year is perfect for reinforcing consistency, reconnecting after the holidays, and easing gently back into daily schedules.
This month, we also honor and remember Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and reflect on his enduring legacy and commitment to equality, kindness, and justice. 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.
IMPORTANT DATES
Jan. 1: New Year's Day
Jan. 1-4: Closed for Christmas Break
Jan. 20: Closed for Martin Luther King Jr. Day
NURSERY UPDATES
We are excited to welcome a new friend to Robbins Nest Nursery this month. Baby J is joining us at 6 months old, and we are so happy to have him become part of our little community. His arrival brings our current group to a fun and lively crew of five boys, and we are looking forward to watching new friendships grow as they learn, play, and explore together.
LOCAL EVENTS
San Diego Holiday Bowl Balloon Parade
The scenic bayside streets of downtown San Diego will come alive with the Port of San Diego Holiday Bowl Balloon Parade! It takes place on North Harbor Island and features floats, drill teams, marching bands and a procession of large balloons. The parade is free to attend, and visitors can bring their own chairs to watch on the side of North Harbor Drive from Ruocco Park.
Friday, January 2nd, 2026 at 10:00am
Experience the enchanting melodies of David Topham as he masterfully crafts harmonious tunes on the Marimba - a symphony of wood that resonates through the room.
*Open seating until capacity is reached.
Located at Rancho Bernardo Public Library
Collins Community Room
Saturday, January 10, 2026 from 3:00pm–4:00pm
SAFETY FIRST
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 usually 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, offering 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:
3-6 Months
Respond positively to your baby. Act excited, smile, and talk to them when they make sounds. This teaches them to take turns “talking” back and forth in conversation.
Provide safe opportunities for your baby to reach for toys, kick at toys and explore what is around them. For example, put them on a blanket with safe toys.
Allow your baby to put safe things in their mouth to explore them. This is how babies learn.
9-12 Months
Teach your baby “wanted behaviors.” Show them what to do and use positive words or give them hugs and kisses when they do it. For example, if they pull your pet’s tail, teach them how to pet gently and give them a hug when they do it.
Talk or sing to your baby about what you’re doing. For example, “Mommy is washing your hands” or sing, “This is the way we wash our hands.”
Build on what your baby tries to say. If he says “ta,” say “Yes, a truck,” or if he says “truck,” say “Yes, that’s a big, blue truck.”
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!
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