"The beautiful thing about learning is that nobody can take it away from you."
~ B.B. King
From the Experts...
Check out what NAEYC.org says about integrating music and drama in the early childhood classroom. Click on the link below to read more about how to use STEAM to integrate music in your classroom.
High Quality Early Childhood
Why is STEAM Crucial?
Don't be afraid to make messes in your classroom (but have a back up plan for learners who are not fond of sensory stimulation to this degree).
Provide an activity that is open all day. Provide materials and supplies conducive to your classroom's abilities/needs. Allow children to become their own Jackson Pollock for the day, ensuring that they can use their own creativity with your guidance. Ask them to tell you about their work and document it by their piece of art...This art activity will allow children to choose their own materials, gain independence and also encourage their social emotional skill set. All the time, you are encouraging their fine motor skills as well! It's a win-win on a rainy day. And if you need some gross motor ideas and you have the space to allow, put everything on a large tarp and allow children to use large paint brushes and rollers....If it's a warm day, encourage them to remove their socks and shoes and go stomping in (your WASHABLE)paint:-)
FOR YOUR INFO!
"No matter the differences in opinion about formal pre-kindergarten education, children benefit from receiving some type of education during their early developmental years. However, there is not one-size fits all instruction best suited for all children. While some children benefit immensely from pre-school, it may not be the best educational setting for other children. In most cases, children benefit most by receiving educational instruction from their parents. Parents must evaluate a child's unique personality before determining which program is best suited for a child since not all programs benefit children the same way."(educationcorner.com, 2018)
What does D.A.P. look like in the classroom?
Practice Rooted in Child Development and Learning
What it looks like: Children learn by being engaged and playing.
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With Infants: Talk to your infants and give them chances to explore their surroundings! Make sure they get tummy time every day and have opportunities to try to do things all by themselves.
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With Toddlers: Trying to herd toddlers is like trying to herd cats. So make sure you are communicating with them in a way that they understand. Sing to them! Sign to them! Tell them what is going to happen next. Understand that they are going to get into everything and make sure your environment supports that.
What it looks like: Make sure your expectations are taking into account their age.
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With Infants: Babies cry to communicate a need. It is not always easy to figure out but the more time you spend with that baby the better you will understand what they are trying to communicate.
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With Toddlers: Toddlers are impulsive and need help regulating themselves. Be patient and forgiving. One of the best ways to help toddlers learn about emotions is to be honest with your own emotions. (Benjamin Planton, Provider Services, Quality Improvement, April 2018). To read more, click the link below.
