I Can Do It: How Routines Can Build Independence
Virtual Event: April 23, 12pm ET

Join Us!
Ever wish your child could do more on their own—and feel proud of it? From putting on their shoes to brushing their teeth to playing independently for more than 2 minutes at a time, your child is more capable than you think. Routines can be powerful tools for building your child’s confidence, resilience and sense of self.
Join us for a conversation with Natalia Damato, Head of School at Vivvi Upper East side and early childhood expert Jennie Monness, co-founder of Charmspring, as we explore how even the simplest daily routines can help children ages 0–5 feel capable and secure. From morning transitions to bedtime wind-downs, and everything in between Jennie will share how you can create routines that support independence without power struggles.
What we'll discuss:
- Why routines help babies, toddlers and preschoolers feel safe and capable
- How to create age-appropriate routines that encourage independence
- Simple shifts to reduce resistance, tantrums and trouble during transitions
- Ways to support your child’s growth and development
Register
Can’t make it? Register anyway and we’ll send you the recording.
Speakers
Jennie Monness, Educator and Co-Founder of Charmspring. Jennie Monness is an early childhood educator with nearly two decades of experience working with children and their families. She’s the Co-Founder of Charmspring and Union Square Play. She received her M.S. degree in Psychology and Education from Teachers College and has spoken at companies such as Uber, Capri Holdings, Saks Fifth Avenue and Coterie.
Natalia Damato, Head of School at Vivvi Upper East Side. Natalia Damato brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role in early childhood education and is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment for young learners. With a profound commitment to creating a community that values play-based learning, Natalia prioritizes building strong partnerships between teachers and families. Her extensive background includes serving as the Center Director at the NYU Langone Health Child Care Center, where she played a pivotal role in opening the center. Prior to that, Natalia spent eight years on the Genentech campus in South San Francisco, where she ascended from an Infant/Toddler teacher to Program Coordinator and ultimately Director. She has earned the National Association for the Education of Young Children accreditation and holds a BA in Family and Consumer Sciences with a concentration in Family Studies and Early Childhood Education from California State University Sacramento. Natalia finds joy and inspiration in her role as a mother to two daughters, Josephine and Lucia, both of whom attend Vivvi. She lives with her family on the Upper East Side.