Montessori, Waldorf, the German concept of Waldkinder, and play based learning all have value in a preschool setting. I like the hand-eye coordination activities and life skills of Montessori. I love the story telling, encouraging children to make handmade items, and the celebration of the seasons and other important events of the Waldorf method. I love the concept of Waldkinder to allow the "Forest to be the Classroom" (outdoor education). Play based learning just sort of speaks for itself, who doesn't want to play and be learning something great at the same time!
I try to incorporate a little bit of each of these theories into the way I teach preschool. I believe that experiential learning is the most effective way to teach and to help children retain what they learn. I will be using the "Amazing Action Alphabet" curriculum to teach the letters and sounds. This method incorporates seeing, hearing and doing...engaging three of the senses to learn.
As a teacher/facilitator I believe my primary role is to inspire learning while providing a safe atmosphere. Preschool can be a formative time as children begin to create, imagine, and learn, as such my role is to encourage these creative processes to flourish. I believe everyday is a new adventure to embark on!
What to expect from School Time Adventures:
*Hands on learning (not boring worksheets)
*Fun crafts and art projects
*Lots of movement (creative dance, running, skipping, hoping, climbing, obstacle courses)
*Singing songs!
*Science Exploration
*Playing outside and exploring nature (we have a fenced in yard)
*Learning the alphabet in a fun and effective way (Amazing Action Alphabet)
(This method uses a song and specific movement to tell the story of each letter animal. example: B the Bear who says b-b-b while blowing bubbles.)
*Learning site words
*Name writing
*Healthy Snacks
*Activities to promote cooperation
*Counting/Math Activities/Number recognition
*Fine motor skills (lacing boards, cutting paper and using various objects to develop hand-eye coordination)
*A whole lot of F-U-N!
