Setting the Stage for Learning Chapter 8 Setting the Stage for Learning

Order Space for Learning Designing different spaces for different kinds of learning activities. Learning Centers or Learning Stations. Create walkways. Supply bins for each small group of children.

Space for Learning Materials for Supply Bin Attendance record sheets Glue or paste Pen Cards 3X5 or 4X6, Magazines (for pictures) Post-it Notes Clay, modeling (non-toxic) Markers, fine & broad tipped Rulers Clip boards Paper, plain & special Scissors

Space for Learning Comfort Furniture Sizes for Different Ages Beginners (0-2 yrs); Chair Seat From Floor: 8-10 in. (20-25 cm.); Table Top From Floor (Write or Eat): 18-20 in. (45-50 cm) Kindergarten (3-5 yrs.) Chair Seat From Floor: 10-12 in. (25-30 cm.); Table Top From Floor (Write or Eat): 20-22in. (50-55 cm.) Primary (6-9 yrs.) Chair Seat From Floor: 12-14 in (30-35 cm.) Table Top From Floor (Write or Eat): 22-24 in (55-60 cm.) Junior – Earliteen (10-14 yrs) Chair Seat From Floor: 14-16 in. (35-40 cm. Table Top From Floor (Write or Eat): 24-26 in. (60-65 cm.) Adults Chair Seat From Floor: 16 in. (40 cm.) Table Top From Floor (Write or Eat): 28-30 in (70-75 cm.)

Comfort Furniture which fits the children. Round tables for small groups and cooperative learning. They also work well for crafts. Rectangular tables for learning centers and crafts.

Space for Learning Comfort Natural lighting, if possible, supplemented by non-glare lighting. Consistent temperature controllable from within the room. Good ventilation and air exchange. In cold climates, carpeting or rugs on the floor for babies and young children. Paint the walls a soothing color appropriate to your culture.

Space for Learning Safety Beginners should never handle scissors. Blunt scissors are appropriate for Kindergartners to use with close adult supervision. Children enter the Primary level using blunt scissors, but leave using sharp-point scissors.

Christ-like Atmosphere Acceptance By the Teacher Jesus showed His acceptance of His students by calling them by name. Jesus also showed he respected and valued each individual he met and taught. Jesus expected the best from His disciples.

Christ-like Atmosphere Acceptance By the Teacher Be an advocate for your children. Explain the need for special programming for children and youth. Post pictures and news about children’s activities. Organize fund raisers to purchase needed equipment for the children’s programs and activities. Keep the pastoral staff informed about activities for children.

Christ-like Atmosphere Acceptance By the Teacher Be an advocate for your children. Find food, clothing, and housing for children in need. Stand up for a child who is being mistreated or misunderstood. Encourage the Nominating Committee to find leaders for children’s programs first. Encourage nominating junior greeters or deacons/deaconesses. Encourage adults to learn the names of all the children and youth in the church and greet them frequently.

Christ-like Atmosphere Acceptance By Peers Provide opportunities for children to work together in cooperative learning groups. Start a Friendship Club for primaries and juniors at your church. Social times and service activities.

KEYS TO SETTING THE STAGE FOR LEARNING Create space for small-group and large-group activities with walkways around the room. Create learning centers for different types of learners. Provide supplies for each small group. .

KEYS TO SETTING THE STAGE FOR LEARNING Make a comfortable room with furniture sized for children and good lighting, temperature, and ventilation. Create a physically and emotionally safe room where children feel safe, and accepted and loved by teachers and other children. Be an advocate for individual children and all the children of your church.