When given choices during child-directed play, children are learning key skills like self-regulation, empathy, creativity, imagination, and problem solving. Why is it then, that in America we have lost a joyfulkindergarten experience and replaced it with academically driven, teacher-directed instruction? Researchers at the University of Virginia, led by the education-policy researcher, Daphna Bassok, found
Writing in the book, Cultivating Curriculum in Early Childhood Organizations, Carol B. Hillman discusses the “intangibles” we want to provide for children in “the child care centers around the world, the nursery schools, the public schools and the home care settings.” She asks, “What is it we want young children to know beyond the
When given choices during child-directed play, children are learning key skills like self-regulation, empathy, creativity, imagination, and problem solving. Why is it then, that in America we have lost a joyful kindergarten experience and replaced it with academically driven, teacher-directed instruction? Researchers at the University of Virginia, led by the education-policy researcher, Daphna Bassok,
Educator Rae Pica debunked the notion that—academically and athletically—earlier is better for children. Regarding academics Pica writes, "Kindergarten, according to a study from the University of Virginia, has become 'the new first grade.' And, based on my observations, preschool has clearly become the new kindergarten. All of this is happening despite the abundance of research
KIDS LOVE Our staff which promises that learning is fun and fun is never ending. A small class size and more time with their teacher. The DC7 airplane magically converted into a classroom just for them, with plenty of space and materials to expand their love of learning. Play-based, hand on experiences in
Sympathetic and trusting teachers can be of use to learners, not by deciding what they are to learn but by encouraging and helping them to learn what they are already busy learning. – from the brilliant mind of John Holt One of the best approaches to early learning will emphasize a studio (small or
