Whether you are anticipating school starting soon or deep into the year, choose ONE learning center in your class and examine each material and ask the questions: ~ Does each item serve a purpose? ~ Can children access it independently? ~ Is there enough variety without creating an overwhelming feeling? ~ Would removing one or two items actually improve children's engagement? ~ Could rotating in a different material spark new curiosity? - Make a plan - match to a theme or child interest. - Then simply observe & Watch how children respond. - Notice what changes in their play, conversations, and independence. **You may be surprised how one small adjustment creates richer learning experiences!
@Julie Nelson Such a wonderful space! Yes, having access to a variety is great, but that also does not mean it has to be "all" or "too many". I like that you are considering rotating items, which will keep the area interesting and more easy to clean. Also, by limiting some things you are able to foster more focused use of the provided items and their purpose. Love the caddy idea for them to use!
Choose ONE part of your day that tends to lose children's attention. Share your way to incorporate music & movement to recapture active engagement: - A song that walks children through a transition - A movement that teaches a concept you're already working on - A chant that replaces something you'd normally just say - For instant support, use shakers!
@Christine Negron Glad to hear you have a song in place! Same thing I mentioned earlier, how could a visual of tasks/steps further enhance what you already have in place?
@Talia Wynne Oh my, consistency is SO key! And it's hard to maintain since we are so incredibly busy in early learning! But, very valuable to bring to staff over and over again to showcase how it really can alleviate challenges and foster joyful learning! I love how you took the content and really put it into practice, even from an observation & modeling perspective! Sometimes that's the "Aha" moments that really impact change and highlight positive student responses!
Show us your elevated visual schedule! Snap a photo and drop it below, or tell us: what's one change you made that you think will make the biggest difference for your kids? 📸
@Megan Jarrett That is a long day and I would be interested in seeing what you come up with! What could it look like or function if it were broken into two halves? I am hopeful that the other videos in this series provide some other gems that may be more easily implemented! 😊
@Amalia Castelino The pictures add another level of relevance that can truly grab attention too! We have lots more songs/chants to share in the coming videos!
Tell us one area in your room you plan to redesign and why: Art, Blocks, Dramatic Play, Games, Library, a Challenging Space, or another area of interest!