If you're anything like me you've been amazed at many 2 year old experts and their apparent breadth of knowledge on a topic. A variety of different things might interest young children, toddlers and/or preschoolers. However, their brains are hard-wired to focus on only a few items of interest. This will change later on as their brains continue to develop to allow for a wider range of topics. Besides that physiological reason, fixating on one interest gives children a sense of control. They … [Read more...]
Work Your Body Grow Your Brain, A Book Review
In teaching a yoga class recently I realized how similar yoga is to ECE developmentally appropriate practice. By that I mean, both address the individual in a holistic way: Either in a practice that unites mind, body and spirit OR activities and/or experiences that address all areas of development ( Physical, Emotional, Social and Cognitive). Often it’s the promise of physical benefits that draws students in to yoga. Before too long, the other aspects naturally follow. I received the book, … [Read more...]
Give Gifts, a Sensory Activity for Gratitude
It is better to give than receive. We’ve all heard that and, of course, it’s true! I know my heart fills with delight in seeing others truly happy with something I’ve done for or given them. Letting children experience this helps them to develop a sense of gratitude. Giving can be done in many ways: ---------------------------------------------------helping around the house -----------------------------------------------------choosing a special gift; or -------------------------------- … [Read more...]
What’s cooking? PLAY & Learning in the Kitchen
For young children, PLAY & learning occur simultaneously—one cannot be separated from the other. What a brilliant construct! PLAYING makes learning self-initiated and self-directed! PLAY & learning can occur in a variety of settings; one of them being your kitchen! Kitchen as the Classroom: Baking is a fantastic activity to do with children because it is an activity that engages and uses their senses. Additionally, baking is an activity that can touch on all developmental domains! … [Read more...]
Learning Activities–It Can Be All Fun & Games
PLAY is the WAY children learn during the early childhood years. How fortunate that is for parents, caregivers and/or their teachers! Because when PLAY is the basis for learning activities it makes learning not only fun, but something that happens naturally. Plus, as an added bonus, it also creates a desire to continue to want to learn! Focus on the Senses: Focus on providing as many opportunities for your kiddos to engage their senses—and if they use more than one for the same activity all … [Read more...]