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 child’s positive self-image and social skills through both structured and unstructured play experiences in the areas of art, music, science, dramatic play. Our curriculum is child-directed with learning goals that are related to the expressed interests of the children.
The classroom is full of open-ended materials, art activities, sensory opportunities, and 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.
To enhance these experiences, the curriculum utilizes community resources in and outside the classroom.
The following are examples of the special activities your child will be invited to participate in while at Irvington Co-Op Preschool:
Knife Safety through skill appropriate chopping
Journaling
Embriodery
Baking
Gardening
What about academics?
Irvington Co-Op Preschool academic curriculum is dependent upon the child with a focus for all on primary school social-emotional readiness (i.e. learning to join for circle time, waiting in line, conflict resolution, etc).
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.
Daily Rhythm
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.
The daily rhythm is as follows:
Arrival
Circle Time
Free Play
Snack Time
Free Play
Lunch
Storytime
Goodbye