Since children develop at their own pace, classrooms are likely to have children at all stages of play development from solo through large group skill levels. Supportive classrooms will have spaces and places that support each level of play with opportunities for children to grow to the next.
It is important to help children feel comfortable during the program day by providing time, space and activities for children who choose to work alone or with one special friend. These opportunities allow children to practice friendships at their own pace.
Today the teachers introduced the Tel Aviv children to a cozy/quiet area (a small tent) that is set off to the side of more active areas in the classroom. The children will have this space to go to alone or with a partner to try risk-free activities to practice working with others.
At circle time we asked the children, "How many children do you think will fit safely in our tent/quiet area area?" Some children said four, and others thought three would be a good number. So we experimented with the space and they felt two children would work/play best in that space. During free play the children did a amazing job sharing the tent and taking turns. Tomorrow we will have the opportunity to use our cozy space again...I can't wait!
No comments:
Post a Comment