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Morning Group
Each
day begins with a large group activity. This large
group activity has so many learning benefits it is
hard not to want it to last all day. But
developmentally, children are not ready to function
for long periods of time in a large group.
Typically, this activity occurs twice a day for five
to ten minutes for twos, depending on the needs and
dynamics of the children involved. Learning
self-control, communication, socialization,
listening skills, math concepts (calendar),
memorization, (finger plays and songs), and
knowledge about the weekly theme (rain forests to
space exploration) are all aspects of circle time!
We create a special place to have it every day.
Carpet squares or vinyl placemats help each child
have a "spot" in morning circle. ”Radical Routines"
are part of each morning circle time. Routines help
children learn what to expect and repetition of
familiar concepts help children learn faster. Songs,
weather, helpers, recognizing special activities,
and explaining the expectations for the day are all
important routines we add.
Creative Arts
While
playing in this area, children learn the concepts of
form, shape, line, and color. They also gain
increased muscle control. One of the benefits of
this center is the fact that when they create
something here, it is lasting, not like a block
tower or finished puzzle. Children need to have
their accomplishments and creations become tangible
so that they have that "I did it!" feeling
validated. Building self-esteem, one piece of
artwork at a time, is what this center is all about.
Math/Manipulative
This
center is designed to build fine motor control,
spatial awareness, eye-hand coordination, problem
solving skills, and social interaction. Typically
set up with tables, children work together in small
groups or singularly with puzzles that challenge,
Legos® that create, lacing cards that teach, and
anything else that requires the children to think
while using their fingers!
Play
In
this popular area, children make great headway in
areas of language, social, and emotional
development. Imaginative play in this area allows
children to take on and explore new roles and to
associate between real and the imagined. Learning to
function in a group, take turns, and play
cooperatively are outcomes for children who master
this center.
Blocks
This
area helps children learn math concepts like
proportion - two triangles make a square. It also
assists children in forming ideas about cause and
effect, gravity, and problem solving. Children learn
quickly that in order for a tower to "reach for the
sky" it needs a large base. The block area is also a
great place for children to socialize and work
together while developing motor skills. Using their
imagination and fellow-builders, children can turn
this area into an airport, castle, or even their own
neighborhood!
Science/Sensory
This
winning center allows the child to feel, smell,
touch, hear, and sometimes taste the medium that
teaches the concept. Measuring, pouring, discovering
physical properties, and volume are all aspects of
this center. This small, hands-on area enforces the
social concepts of cooperative play! Math, science,
and motor development are all added benefits of
learning in this sand, water, oatmeal, and shaving
cream environment.
Small Group
Small
group times offer you the opportunity to work with a
few children at one time to provide an activity that
requires more teacher participation. We use this
time to make sure each child has a special time with
us.
Large Group
This
area develops communication and early reading
skills. Learning how to care for books, holding them
and turning a page in sequence are only a few of the
first important steps in developing a respect for
books and reading. Listening, a key learning
concept, is also an important skill developed in
this area. |
