1. Early Childhood Education Karen Campos TLS 318 The Universtiy of Arizona

2. Early Childhood Education: Explained – A branch of education theory which relates to the teaching of young children, formally and informally, from birth until the age of about 7. -Includes Preschool and Kindergarten

3. Learning Through Play : Jean Piaget Piaget was the first to recognize Play as an essential part of early development. She focuses on: – Physical: physical development biologically and physical functions including fine motor skills and eyesight – Cognitive: problem solving, creativity, imagination, and memory – Language: verbal communication about emotions and feelings – Emotional: the creation of emotional connections and self-confidence – Social needs: child interactions with others; responsibilities within family

4. Six Types of Early Childhood Education Centers Montessori – Developed by Maria Montessori – Teachers have undergraduate degree and Montesorri certification – Emphasizes nature, creativity, and hands on learning with gentle guidance provided by teachers. – To develop senses, character, practical life skills and academic ability Waldorf – Developed by Rudolf Steiner – To nurture child’s spirit, soul and body; focuses on child’s interests. – Involves creative, hands-on group learning with focus on rhythmic repetition in a supportive environment. – To generate strong a strong inner enthusiasm for learning and develop child’s innate abilities and talents – Teacher directed; Waldorf certified

5. Six Types of Early Childhood Education Centers- Continued Reggio Emilia – 1940’s Italian Style – Encourages exploration and focuses on the imporance of community and self-expression – Open-ended and child-led opportunities in art, projects and activities that reflect on their ideas and interests – No formal curriculum, teacher training or credentialing because it is an education theory and practice – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVv5ZL9nlgs https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XVv5ZL9nlgs High Scope – Approach called Active Participatory Learning. – Learning by active hands on learning with surroundings and learning supported by daily routines and well organized classrooms. – Takes academic sgtart with planned experiences in math, reading, and science. – Based on past and current child develeopment research – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7YaobYTPg k https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U7YaobYTPg k

6. Six Types of Early Childhood Education Centers –Continued Bank Street – Based on John Dewy. – Focus on mental, social, emotional, and physical growth. – Child is an active learner and gains knowledge about the world through experience. – Student-led; teacher-guided. – Comparable to play-based learning such as building blocks, puzzles, clay and dramatic play – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEC43OIs0l4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEC43OIs0l4 Parent Co-Ops – Parent actively involved with education on a daily basis and work closely with teachers. – Parent/Child interaction in a nurturing environment with emphasis on cooperation and problem solving. – Parents share buisness operations of school by serving on board of directors. – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wg7Jbj iN1WE https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wg7Jbj iN1WE

7. Why is ECE so important? – Depending on the educational institution you ask they may say the first 5-8 years of life are crucial but in reality they are all important. – Focus on your child’s needs and learning abilities – Decide if full or a half-day of preschool is the best option. – Opt for a half-day program – parents can provide extra stimulation at home with reaind, physical activies, and craft projects. – Consider individual needs, age, energy level, and maturity.