Child Directed and Open Ended Play
Irvington Preschool’s goal is to provide a stimulating and creative learning environment that encourages the development of each childs positive self-image and social skills through both structured and unstructured play experiences in the areas of art, music, science, physical education, dramatic play, and reading and math readiness. To enhance these experiences, the curriculum utilizes community resources in and outside the classroom.
Philosophy
The curriculum is child-directed with learning goals that are related to the expressed interests of the children. The classroom is full of open-ended art activities, sensory opportunities, and plenty of free movement from one learning center to another. Children are encouraged to explore and build upon the activities in the classroom. The class engages in projects with planning and in-depth investigation where children can focus on the aspects of a subject that are meaningful to them.
Our curriculum encourages curiosity and love of learning by allowing students to investigate ideas and experiences which are meaningful for them. Our teacher helps children expand their ideas and encourages exploration. A critical focus is on each child’s social emotional development and cognitive skill building.
What about academics?
At the preschool age, learning is acquired through child-led investigations. For instance, if your child is interested in bugs, Ms. Erika will add activities to enhance that interest and allow for further growth. Each child is learning at a different rate and through different interests. It is important to teach to the individual child’s interests and needs, drawing others into the learning as they show interest. Along with class time focusing on showed interests, all of the children will bake together and learn how to safely chop their own fruit and vegetables.
The classroom is organized into open areas for the children to freely migrate toward their interests. Children share their thoughts and experiences by creating books and journals with artwork, photos, and writing. The teacher reads to the children and encourages them to make up their own songs and stories. Circle time hones skills like listening to others, talking in turn, and maintaining focus. Through this they are building up their sense of having a community of peers and strengthening their communication, regulation, and problem solving skills.
Having a professional history in Outdoor Schools, Ms. Erika places a large importance on outdoor experiences and education to further accomplish strengthening all of these skills for each child.
How is the day structured?
Our days follow a soft Rhythm. This provides predictability for the children which builds confidence and comfort during times of transition. By allowing flexibility in our daily routine, we can better support children’s needs during class time.
A Typical Day
The main components of the daily schedule are student-choice time, snack, whole group music or story, and gym. One or two parent helpers assist the teacher in the classroom daily (depending on how many students are present that school day).
The daily rhythm is as follows:
Arrival
Circle Time
Free Play
Snack Time
Movement
Lunch
Storytime
Goodbye