Our classroom thrives on structure and routines. In previous years, each child has excelled in their own academic and social/emotional development because of the routine and structure in the classroom. I have recreated our classroom schedule to be conducive to our new norm, “distant learning.” I know following a schedule can be rough and seem impossible at times. I promise you the more you stick to a routine, the more growth you will see in your children at home.
If you can stick to the schedule even 3 days a week, you will see a huge growth. It will also make it easier for the kids when we finally go back to school. I want your kids to play, use their imagination, and still love to learn. At this age, so much learning is done through play, exploring, and experiences. I know we have uploaded lessons to the site, but they will get so much more learning through cooking, taking walks through the neighborhood ,playing and hands-on-experiences. PLEASE CONTINUE TO MAKE LEARNING FUN! I also ask that you spend 15-20 minutes of undivided attention at least twice a day. This can be done during “hard work” time, reading a book, or playing. You will be amazed as the things your kids will teach you.
We use the visual in the classroom to remind the children that they must do their hard work before they can play. We also use this during nap time, meals, or anytime they need to be focusing. Make sure to use this when they must complete a task before they can play. Play can be a number of things, such as, reading books, cooking, watching tv, drawing, dress up, anything they are interested in and find fun.
This is another visual we use in the classroom during circle time. This visual is used when a child(ren) needs a reminder what is expected during large group. This can be used at home during "academic" time.
Create a space that is slightly dark, quiet, and has few distractions. Search YouTube for calming yoga music. Have scholars close their eyes and sway to the music. Tell them to smell the flower and blow out the candle. Have scholars close their eyes and sway for 1 minute. As they master the skill, add more time. Have their notice their body. Is their heart beating fast or slow? Do their arms and legs feel tight or lose? Explain that is healthy for everyone to take a break and relax their bodies.