Many of you work in early childhood education centers or operate your own in-home care centers. As summer time approaches, I am bombarded with questions from parents regarding two subjects, "1) What type of curriculum do you use in the summer?" and 2) "When will my child move up to the next age group?" I have found over the last 20 years that the best response will come when you are prepared to answer those questions as well as, familiarize yourself with your center's policies on transitions and move up dates. Remember, there is no right or wrong answer but parent's want to know.
Onto the questions themselves:
Question 1) *I prefer moving children at the same time and that time is in August, as children are heading back to school and we can transition into a fall curriculum at the same time. This helps with children go through fewer transitions and, at the same time, gives them time to be prepare for this change.
*Keep in mind that when transitioning from young to older toddlers and from toddlers to twos, there are a variety of factors that come into play in deciding on transitions, not just potty- training and walking. These transitions should, ALWAYS, be based on the child's best interest (as should all transitions) and heretofore, may result in a few more transitions than the older classrooms.
Question 2) I love to break up the year with a different, lighter, summer- fun program. Children need a break just like we do and, a short 6-8 week break is a great opportunity for them to enjoy a variety of different, fun and engaging summer activities. You have many resources for light summer curriculum but I always go with the following in deciding my themes/objectives:
1) Ages/grades of summer camp kids as well as your early childhood groups
2) HANDS ON, BUSY FUN!
3) Summer themes
4) Your capacity for offsite trips and licensing requirements/staffing
5) Cost (to parents and what you are budgeted)
What are your thoughts on transition times and summer activities?
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