Peachjar Blog

Peachjar Community Champion: Traveling Players Brings Great Theater to the Great Outdoors

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:25:20 GMT

On this episode of Peachjar Extra Credit, Matt met with Jeanne Harrison, Founder of Traveling Players, to learn more about their mission to bring great theater into the great outdoors!

The Importance of Social-Emotional Learning and How to Support It at Home

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 17:27:12 GMT

To state the obvious, many parents want their children to succeed academically and therefore they focus on classroom based skills such as reading, writing, math, time management skills for homework, and so on. There is, however, a whole genre of skills that play a huge role in a child’s long-term success and well-being that is worth highlighting and focusing on. That set of skills are a child’s social-emotional skills.

FC Frederick: Kickin' It With Their Community

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 17:17:08 GMT

On this episode of Peachjar Extra Credit, Matt was in Frederick, MD and spoke to FC Frederick Director of Coaching, Bo Eskay, to learn about FC Frederick's mission to cultivate talent in a positive environment that challenges each player at their highest level and deliver holistic development for their players.

Peachjar Community Champion: Everett Rowing Sets The Pace

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 16:21:22 GMT

On this episode of Peachjar Extra Credit, Matt was in Everett, WA to meet with the folks at Everett Rowing to learn more about how they upload their values of leadership, belonging, and excellence.

This year's Peachjar Extra Credit Award Goes To...

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:04:49 GMT

Each year, the Peachjar Extra Credit Award gives us the opportunity to do one of our favorite things—shine a spotlight on schools that go above and beyond to engage their communities and create welcoming, thriving environments for students and families. This year, we’re thrilled to announce that El Camino Creek Elementary, part of Encinitas Union School District our 2025 Peachjar Extra Credit Award recipient! 🎉

How to Build Your Child's Confidence in Public Speaking

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 16:22:07 GMT

Public speaking comes naturally to very few and the idea of speaking in front of a group can feel intimidating, even terrifying, especially for children. Whether it’s presenting a book report, answering a question in class, or speaking at a school assembly, public speaking is something children have to do but might not be comfortable with from the onset. Building this skill is important though for a multitude of reasons and creating a confidence in public speaking for children should, and can be, learned, practiced, and strengthened over time.

All Star Academy Helps Children Discover the Gift of Learning

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:51:10 GMT

On this episode of Peachjar Extra Credit, Matt visited and spoke with Brandy Simison, Founder of All Star Academy and their personalized, advanced approach that causes children to love learning.

5 Reasons Why Your School Should Offer After-School Programs

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:16:17 GMT

When families register for your school, they’re trusting you to provide their children with the best education possible. For many families, that means providing an afterschool program. Extending the school day with structured activities is a powerful way to support student growth, create connections with families, and strengthen your community.

Let’s review some of the top benefits of these activities so your school can design a successful after-school program.

The Sycamore School Loves Learning

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 15:49:17 GMT

On this episode of Peachjar Extra Credit, Matt visited and spoke with Karyn Ewart, Founder and Head of The Sycamore School, to learn how The Sycamore School helps children cultivate intellectual curiosity, independent thought, and a love of learning.

Family Fun Activities for Winter Break: Simple Ways to Help Kids Stay Engaged, Connected, and Thriving

susanle@peachjar.com (Peachjar) — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 19:56:44 GMT

Winter break brings a welcome pause from the school year—a chance for families to slow down, recharge, and spend meaningful time together. For some children, it’s a season of excitement, creativity, and rest. For others, the shift in routine can feel challenging, especially when social opportunities decrease or structure becomes looser.

Whether families are looking to strengthen connection, explore new interests, or keep kids intellectually engaged, there are countless ways to make winter break a joyful and enriching time. Below are family-friendly activities designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and support the whole child during the winter season.