Indiana District Two’s Curriculum

Really?? A curriculum for 2’s?? YES!! And, here’s why . . . If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll never get there !! What are our goals for the 2-year olds in our centers? Faith in Jesus Christ Foundational skills for social competence (self-confidence, cooperation, empathy) Foundational skills for academic success “Fun” is not enough. Success in school/life. Really?? A curriculum for 2’s??

Really?? A curriculum for 2’s?? YES!!! And, here’s why . . . A stimulating curriculum and a safe, stimulating environment: Keeps hands and bodies busy Helps young brains make magnificent connections What does a 2’s curriculum look like? It requires: A loving facilitator; partner in learning Many hands-on, sensory experiences Flexibility Repetition, repetition, repetition!! Programs that are not stimulating lead to boredom, aggression and tears. Really?? A curriculum for 2’s??

What does a 2’s curriculum look like? 2’s have different emotional, intellectual, and physical needs than preschoolers. They need: Adult support – stay close Opportunities for success and independence Room to run and climb Activities that are inviting and stimulating Adults who follow their lead (flexibility is “key”) What does a 2’s curriculum look like?

Form partnerships with families (home visits; gradual entry; open-door policy; frequent communication) BE FLEXIBLE!! Plan, observe, evaluate, and plan again (cyclical process). Make changes based on the needs, moods, and interests of the children. Provide limited choices (centers on trays; simple and clutter-free shelves) BE ENGAGED!!! Join their play. STAY CLOSE!!! Suggestions

Dealing with challenges Overly active Taped blocks to saw apart Hammer golf tees Circle Time (It’s okay if not everyone comes. Provide quiet activities near circle.) “Sit-upons” Items to hold Needs time alone Peel off tape from under a table Blow bubbles Aggressive Kick ball at red cups Paper towel tubes – hit soft balls or Easter eggs Dealing with challenges

Indiana District’s 2’s Curriculum Respected resources High/Scope Southwest and Michigan Districts Early Childhood curriculums from New Jersey and Massachusetts Etc. Suggested supports Suggested learning experiences Wonderful appendix Schedules Assessments Indiana District’s 2’s Curriculum

A “Walk-Through” The Indiana District Early Childhood Curriculum Spiritual Foundation Overview Adult-child interactions Learning Environment Materials Progress reports 8 Domains (Religion, Social/Emotional, English/Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Creative Art, Physical Health A “Walk-Through”

Now what??? Evaluate the learning environment Centers Materials (DAP? Too many/too few?) Review schedule – is it working? Make adjustments Review lesson plan formats (Remember, “Fun isn’t enough.”) Planned Focused Intentional Identify goals (group/individual) Lighten up and ENJOY!! Now what???

You are priveledged!!!

Advice for Every Early Childhood Educator Laugh a lot Work hard Advice for Every Early Childhood Educator

Eat well, but treat yourself to something special now and then. Don’t forget to take breaks and rest well

Carefully plan your curriculum with each child in mind. Know that sometimes you have to throw your plans away and follow a child’s lead.

Take many photos and notes. Learn to see what children see.

Be silly sometimes and enjoy every moment with children. Nurture friendships

Take risks and encourage children to take risks as well. Help children explore the natural world.

Take children outdoors.

Savor the quiet moments. Stop yourself from saying no. Find out what the plan is first.

Build loving relationships and love with all of your heart!!