Preschool Three’s (36 months – 48 months)
Preschoolers are always excited to show you how much they know! In the Four’s and Five’s programs, we incorporate themes and literature as we explore many interesting topics. Our·centers and learning activities are often related to a story such as The Three Bears or to a topic such as Friendship. All of the children have interests oftheir own and that is considered and incorporated into the weekly planning.
A large part of their day is spent in centers. Each of the center activities are intentionally planned to introduce a new concept or to scaffold the young child’s learning. At Dramatic Play center, we often find children develop an understanding of social roles and responsibilities as well as recognizing and learning to respect similarities and differences between people as they play “Family” or “School”. (55)
The Math center offers opportunities for number recognition,counting, puzzles,problem solving, sorting, and measurement (M). At our Science center,preschoolers can use the sensory table to explore the characteristics of
objects or materials that are man-made or naturally occurring such as Lincoln Logs,pine needles,pine cones,and Little Tykes People. (S) The Writing table offers chances for literacy development as children learn writing skills using w riting materials such as·pencils,crayons,and markers,the alphabet,stamps,paper and pre-made books. (L) Children create interesting sculptures,bend and glue paper,attach collage materials and draw symbolic pictures to create their own works of art! (CA)
The Manipulatives Center allows our little friends to choose their own manipulatives from our wide selection of
different “bins”. The manipulatives range from large and small blocks,colored animals,magnet-tiles,unifix cubes, etc. All of these choices give children the chance to apply strategies for logic and reasoning athey build structures on our large rug. (CD)
Our classroom is rich in language development as children are introduced to more complex language through books,music, and conversations with each other and teachers. (LD) We,also,include outdoor
play as an extension of the classroom. While on the playground the children develop their climbing, running, and balancing skills. (PH)
In addition,they learn to strengthen their peer relationships,make decisions and practice turn taking with guidance from their teachers, if needed. Preschoolers are encouraged to develop a stronger sense of self by using their wordfor problem solving and exercising impulse control. These skills will be crucial in Kindergarten and beyond. (SE)