Teaching pre-schoolers can be exciting and challenging at the same time. Because a pre-schooler’s attention span is so short we have to find ways to hold their attention. Lecturing a little one or keeping them seated at a table for an extended amount of time is a recipe for inattention and misbehavior.
When dealing with this age group we must be constantly moving from one activity to the next. The days of little ones sitting down to color a handout for more than five minutes are long gone. Pre-schoolers need to be busy, active, challenged, and interested in the topic at hand. The best way to help a pre-schooler learn is to teach in such a way that they don’t think they’re learning, but rather playing.
Pre-schoolers can obtain an appropriate education through organized and concept-based centers, music, crafts, pretending, role play, action, movement and guided play. Children can be directed in their learning but still be allowed to explore and be creative.
The pre-school years set the stage for future learning and growth. These are the years when children begin developing their language, academic, emotional, and social skills. The introductory years are also when children start to develop spiritually. It is essential for children to have a positive learning experience in their earliest years. It is our job as teachers and parents to lay a firm foundation for our children from the start.
For a ready-made, easy-to-follow curriculum that incorporates this style of learning, visit “The Carpenter’s Kids” Curriculum at www.carpenterskidscurriculum.com or click on the graphic below.