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8 contributions to Musically Minded Academy
Week 8 - Spark Deeper Thinking 💡
Choose one learning center. What are few questions you could intentionally plan to ask during play?
0 likes • 2h
I would intentionally choose art or library time. During art, I could ask, “What are you making?” or “Can you tell me about your picture?” During library time, I might ask, “Have you ever seen this animal?” or “Have you ever done something like this?” These questions help children explore, compare what they see in books with their own experiences, and describe their ideas. I think it also helps them find more meaning and purpose in what they are doing.
Week 7- Engaging Conversations ✨
Choose one play area you want to intentionally extend conversations- Blocks, Snack, Dramatic Play.... ~ Tell us about the experience! ~ Were you able to restate or rephrase, make comments, ask follow up questions, or add on vocabulary to extend the learning? ** Keep the momentum going in another area and soon you will find this occurring more organically!
1 like • 24d
I really enjoy talking with the children during circle time. This is the time when we come together to share stories, sing, dance, and connect with one another. I especially love starting our circle time by asking each child how their week was and what they did. They get so excited to share their experiences, and often, when one child starts talking, another child becomes excited and says, “Oh, I want to share too!” From there, we can create meaningful conversations where the children share their opinions, talk about what they liked or didn’t like, and learn from each other. I also love using the books we read as opportunities to connect with the children. For example, if we are reading a story that mentions food, I might ask, “What is your favorite food?” That simple question can turn into a fun conversation where everyone wants to participate. What I enjoy most about these moments is that they allow me to get to know the children on a more personal level. I learn about their interests, their preferences, their personalities, and little pieces of their lives outside of school. I truly enjoy listening to them and learning what makes each child unique. For me, these conversations are more than just part of circle time. They are a way to build relationships and create a sense of connection. I feel that as I take the time to listen to the children and show genuine interest in what they have to say, they begin to feel connected to me as well. And that connection is one of the most beautiful and rewarding parts of working with children.
Week 6- Evaluating Purposeful Materials 🖍️🧸
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!
1 like • Aug 27
I really enjoy creating sensory bins for the children because it is something they always seem to enjoy and appreciate. I like to use different objects and materials that we already have in the classroom and combine them in a new way. As you explained in the video, we don’t always need to buy something new to create an engaging experience for children. Sometimes, simply using materials we already have in a different way or in a new setting can make them feel fresh and exciting. I think sensory bins are a great way to encourage children to explore, use their imagination, and discover new ways to interact with familiar materials.
Week 5- Area Make Over 🤩
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!
1 like • Aug 26
I would like to redesign the Library area by placing books at the children’s eye level so they can easily choose what they want to read. I also want to create a cozy corner with pillows and soft blankets where children can sit comfortably, relax, and enjoy books on their own or with a friend.
Week 4- The ONE Spot Challenge 🎵
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!
1 like • Aug 26
One part of my day that can be difficult is cleaning up before moving to the next activity. I would use a simple clean-up song with movements to keep the children engaged and make the transition more fun.
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Joksana Friedman
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@joksana-friedman-1856
Hello, I'm here to learn!

Active 2h ago
Joined Jul 20, 2026
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