COGNITIVE DEVELOPMENT: Mathematics, Visual Perception

Pattern blocks consist of shapes that are perfect for creative design. Additionally, it is an ideal tool to use to teach basic math concepts, e.g., patterning, basic geometry, visual perception, and to promote problem-solving skills. To endorse critical thinking, during a classroom Math Workshop, patterns blocks was an activity that was provided for creating pictures.

Here we see Noel as he explores geometric shapes while matching different shapes and colors to replicate the pattern shown. This activity also supports Noel with good small motor development and coordination. Although challenged, Noel stayed with activity until completion, experimenting with trial and error along the way. “I did it!” I did the ship!”

Nov. 2013

LITERACY/LANGUAGE: Pre-Reading Skill

Children acquire proficiency in language and literacy through extensive experience with language, print, and literature in a variety of contexts. Here we see Noel as he “reads” a favorite classroom book to his friend. As he observes the pages of the book, Noel is learning to read the pictures’ grammar. This prepares him for the future ability of reading of texts.

LITERACY/LANGUAGE: Journaling, Winter Break experience

What did you do during the Winter Break?

“I stayed home on Christmas vacation. I played.”

1/6/2014

LITERACY/LANGUAGE: Pre-Reading Skills, Daily Schedule

On a rotating basis the children in the Cardinal classroom take turns reviewing our Daily Schedule with the entire group at Morning Meeting. This reading readiness activity provides wonderful opportunities for children to practice decoding skills and sight vocabulary skills as well as recall and memory skills. Learning concepts such yesterday/today/tomorrow are reinforced daily and the children are developing a sense of time and sequence as they map out the events of their day.

Here we see Noel as he named the activities of the day, pointing to each word and touching the word with his pointer finger. Through this literacy activity, Noel’s print awareness is heightening. A pre-reading skill, print awareness is an important part of knowing how to read and write. Noel’s interest to participate in this activity reflects his growing knowledge about the relation between words he sees in print and the words he speaks and hears.

LITERACY/LANGUAGE: Writing

In the Cardinals’ classroom, endless opportunities are provided to write for many purposes. As the children continue to be exposed to language and print and develop an understanding of how words work, they start to understand how to group letters into words.

Each child progresses at their own developmental writing level. The goal is not to tell the children how to write, but to help them sound out words by stretching the sounds. Allowing the child to write the words the way they sound will eventually help them as they learn to read.

Here we see an example of Noel exploring with writing as he forms letters on his paper that describes what he is thankful for. As Noel was provided with help to sound out the word, he wrote:

“EM”

(me)

Eventually, with practice and formal teachings, Noel will acquire comprehension on the conventions of print, e.g., writing from left to right, the difference between uppercase and lowercase letters, how to put spaces between words, and how to use correct spelling and punctuation.

Exploring Sewing...

December 2013
Fine Motor Skills 

Amanda introduced the concept of sewing in Art class and demonstrated the skills involved using a large plastic sewing needle, yarn and burlap.  The initial introduction of this activity was done in large group and provided an opportunity for all of the children to practice listening skills and following directions.

Developing strong listening skills is an important component of our curriculum and our children have many varied opportunities to both practice and develop these skills in our Early Childhood program. The children have matured in their abilities to listen and focus as a group  and they continue to learn and grow so much from each other.

Noel thoroughly enjoys visiting the art studio and loves to participate in our Art classes with Amanda.  Working in small groups at the art tables, Noel applied the information he heard and enthusiastically began to sew!  Noel is eager to try new experiences and challenges and does not frustrate easily.  Sewing involves many steps as well as fine motor coordination and Noel approached this task with determination! His fine motor skills are continuing to mature as we continue to provide various opportunities to develop these skills.