Creating an Engaging Learning Environment
Teacher’s Role:
- Supportive Guidance: Teachers support children through the problem-solving process, encouraging persistence and exploration of alternative solutions.
- Observation and Prediction: Children are challenged to use their observations to make predictions, draw conclusions, and reflect on their findings.
- Celebrating Discoveries: Teachers plan time for children to share their questions and celebrate their discoveries both formally and informally.
Hands-On Learning Experiences
Teachers at 360° Kids Play School provide high-quality, hands-on learning experiences using a variety of materials:
- Concrete Materials: Both commercial and found objects.
- Models and Visuals: Enhancing understanding through tangible examples.
- Books and Software: Supporting vocabulary development and scientific knowledge.
Repeated Opportunities for Learning
Children need time and repeated opportunities to develop skills in science and technology:
- Repeated Exposure: Reinforcing learning through repeated investigations.
- Multiple Demonstrations: Encouraging children to demonstrate their learning in various ways, such as discussions and representations of their investigations.
Viewing Themselves as Scientists
It is crucial for children to see themselves as scientists and capable users of technology. They will:
- Observe and Record: Just like scientists, children will observe and sometimes record their observations.
- Make Predictions and Ask Questions: Developing inquiry skills through predictions and questioning.
- Investigate and Conclude: Engaging in investigations, drawing conclusions, and applying problem-solving skills.
Overall Expectations
By the end of Kindergarten, children will:
Awareness of Environment:
- Demonstrate awareness of the natural and human-made environment through hands-on investigations, observations, questioning, and sharing findings.
Conducting Investigations:
- Conduct simple investigations through free exploration, focused exploration, and guided activity using inquiry skills (observing, questioning, planning, investigating, and communicating findings).
Understanding and Care for Nature:
- Demonstrate understanding and care for the natural world.
Investigating Materials:
- Investigate and discuss the characteristics and functions of common materials and use them safely.
Using Technology:
- Recognize and use common forms of technology safely.
Conclusion
At 360° Kids Play School, we nurture young children’s natural curiosity by providing a rich, engaging environment for learning science and technology. By supporting their inquiry processes, offering hands-on learning experiences, and encouraging repeated exploration, we help children develop a solid foundation in scientific thinking and technological understanding. This approach not only fosters their current curiosity and engagement but also lays the groundwork for continued learning and interest in science and technology throughout their educational journey.