Why You Won’t Hear “Criss Cross Applesauce” or “Catch a Bubble” at Early Spark Academy

If you’ve ever been inside an early childhood classroom, you’ve probably heard teachers say things like “Criss cross applesauce!” or “Catch a bubble!” These phrases are meant to get children to sit still and stay quiet, but at Early Spark Academy, we take a very different approach.

We believe early childhood is not a time for stillness and silence. It’s a time for children to move, talk, wonder, and grow.

Why “Criss Cross Applesauce” Isn’t Always Developmentally Appropriate

It may seem simple to ask a child to “sit criss cross applesauce,” but for many young children, that position isn’t comfortable or natural. Children’s bodies are still developing. Sitting with legs crossed for long periods can strain hips, backs, and core muscles, especially for children who are still mastering body control and balance.

At Early Spark Academy, we recognize that movement supports learning. When children can shift, stretch, or find a position that feels good for their bodies, they can focus better and engage more deeply.

That’s why we encourage flexible seating. Children might sit like a mountain (on their knees), a mermaid (legs to the side), a seal (on their bellies), a french fry (legs straight out), in a chair, or even stand at a low table—whatever helps them feel calm, comfortable, and connected to the group. When their bodies are at ease, their brains are free to focus, explore, and learn.

💡 Did You Know?

For many young children, sitting “criss cross applesauce” actually takes more brain power than listening or learning!

Here’s why:

• It requires coordination and core strength. Children’s brains must constantly signal their muscles to maintain balance and stay upright.

• It limits natural movement. Movement fuels focus, and holding still can actually make it harder to concentrate.

• It’s not comfortable for everyone. Some children feel strain in their hips, knees, or backs when sitting this way, but might not be able to vocalize it.

• Comfort supports learning. When children’s bodies feel safe and supported, their minds are free to think, speak, and explore.

Why We Don’t Say “Catch a Bubble”

“Catch a bubble” is often used to quiet a group by having children puff their cheeks and hold their breath. But here’s the thing: this is the age when children’s language skills are blossoming.

These early years are when children learn to form sounds, use new words, ask questions, and express emotions. When we silence them, even briefly, we send the message that their voices are not meant to be heard. At Early Spark Academy, we believe language is a bridge to connection, not something to hold in. Instead of asking children to “catch a bubble,” our teachers model language that helps children understand when and how to use their voices thoughtfully:

“Let’s use our listening ears so we can hear everyone's ideas

“Let’s lower our voices so everyone can say what they have to say.”

This approach builds self-regulation, empathy, and respect for others, all without taking away a child’s natural voice.

A Real Story from Our Toddler Classroom

Before joining Early Spark Academy, one of our toddler students rarely spoke. Her grandparents were worried because she was quiet and only used noises and gestures to communicate her needs. Her teachers focused on connecting with her through conversation, modeling language, and giving her words for how she might be feeling—whether happy, sad, or somewhere in between.

After about 2 weeks, she began to speak! Her family was amazed at the progress in such a short time. She started sharing her emotions, joining story time, and even asking to hear her favorite books again and again. Today, she lights up the room with her words, curiosity, and song choices. Her voice grew stronger as she was heard, understood, and supported at her own pace.

How Early Spark Academy Is Different

At Early Spark Academy, our approach is rooted in respect for each child’s development. You’ll see children:

• Sitting comfortably in ways that support focus and body awareness

• Talking, collaborating, and expressing ideas freely

• Using rich language during play, storytelling, and investigations

• Building confidence in both movement and communication

Here, you'll find engaged learning spaces where every child’s spark of learning is heard and seen.