Children are born with an incredible capacity and desire to learn. Teachers of very young children have the awesome task of providing rich information and experiences that build skills and understanding in the context of every day routines and within intentionally-designed play opportunities that capture children’s interests, wonder and curiosity so they want to know more.
Children discover and understand science, social studies, and math information when they actively explore materials and ideas that are guided by teachers who intentionally design activities that engage children in critical thinking and processing. Children also learn about their own abilities and learning styles, how to get along with others and how to appreciate others’ contributions in classrooms that include a diverse set of materials and experiences.
School environments should be linked to a child’s home environment, incorporating cultural and ethnic materials and children’s home language and provide experiences that are inclusive for all children, regardless of ability, socio- economic status, or family background. Well-designed classrooms demonstrate a commitment to the whole child by offering materials and activities that promote social, physical, cognitive and language learning.
Classroom assessment instruments that help providers assess the arrangement of indoor and outdoor space, the provision of materials and activities, and their development of class schedules are useful in assuring best practice implementation and alignment to Pennsylvania’s Learning Standards for early childhood.
Parents of young children have much to offer in the learning process. When a partnership is formed between teacher (or school) and the family, the connection between home and school has been strengthened, assuring that children receive consistent messages about learning and skill development. Parents should be given opportunities to learn about their children’s day at school, to provide input into the information they want children to learn and master, and to understand what they can do at home to enhance the school experience. Frequent informal conversations, invitations to participate in class- room life and voluntary take-home activities that relate to school experiences help to build the partnership.
At-home resources for parents of children aged 2-5, such as, Teach Me To Learn at Home™ provides both teachers and families with tools to connect at home and share age appropriate expectations and activities that support that connection. Get started with a FREE trial today: https://teachmetolearnathome.org/get-started/