Preschoolers (3 and 4 year olds)
Preschoolers love to learn and are constantly absorbing information from their environment. Our preschool program focus on developmentally appropriate theme based learning in a nurturing atmosphere. There are many opportunities for hands on exploration that help introduce children to concepts such as math, science and reading. Children will be introduced to a more structured environment while also having the opportunity to explore at their own pace. They will continue to strengthen social, cognitive, language, self-help, fine motor and gross motor skills. Three and Four year old children will work on refining previously acquired skills and developing new skills needed for Kindergarten.
Our Preschool program follows a High Scope Curriculum Philosophy. The components of our day are outlined below:
Our Day at Island Kids:
Greeting Time: Teachers and children talk about the day and any changes to the daily routine. During this time teachers may tell children about new materials or any special visitors or events. Classroom discussions on a variety of topics occur during greeting time.
Small Group Time: Teachers work with a small group of children on an activity they have chosen and planned. Activities are planned to introduce concepts and skills as well expand on concepts and skills previously learned.
Large Group Time: Adults and children in the classroom participate in an activity together. It is a time to build a sense of community in the classroom. Activities may include music & movement, storytelling, games or other shared physical activities.
Planning Time (3’s & 4’s): Children meet daily with their planning groups prior to work time. Depending on age and ability to communicate they express their plan in actions, gestures or words. Planning is different then simply making a choice because it involves purpose and intentionality. Teachers will use a variety of methods to help children make their plan.
Choice Time (2’s): Children are free to make choices about what where they play, what materials they use and who they play with. As they approach age 3, teachers will introduce a more formal planning time.
Work/Center Time: Children carry out their plans and put their ideas into actions in the classroom interest areas (Blocks, House, Quiet, Sensory, Art, Toys). It provides many opportunities for social interaction and problem solving. Children are free to change their plans or make new plans as often as they like during work time. Teachers closely observe children and are there to support their learning during work time. Teachers use information gathered during observations to help them assess children’s development as well as to plan future classroom activities.
Recall Time (3’s & 4’s): Groups meet again after work time to briefly recall what they did during work time. This encourages children to reflect on their actions and what they learned that day.
Outside Time: Each day (weather permitting) children will spend time outdoors exploring their environment as they interact with their peers and develop their gross motor skills.