{"id":148,"date":"2017-10-16T17:29:23","date_gmt":"2017-10-17T00:29:23","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/sd41blogs.ca\/quinn\/?page_id=148"},"modified":"2017-10-21T15:33:09","modified_gmt":"2017-10-21T22:33:09","slug":"kindergarten-philosophy","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sd41blogs.ca\/quinn\/parent-resourcesinfor\/kindergarten-philosophy\/","title":{"rendered":"Kindergarten Philosophy"},"content":{"rendered":"

Letting Children Choose<\/u><\/span><\/p>\n

Why do we as adults pursue hobbies such as golf, crochet or gardening? We spend time in such an activity because we find it enjoyable, we have some control over the activity and we see it as offering some probability of success. We choose what we will crochet or plant; we decide where, when and with whom we will play golf or tennis.<\/span><\/p>\n

Children, too, learn best when they have some control over their learning, when activities are meaningful and relevant, and when they can make choices in the materials they will work with and how they will use them.<\/span><\/p>\n

Children thrive when they have opportunities every day to make choices in their learning. We facilitate children\u2019s choices within a carefully planned environment. We create the environment to allow each child to choose activities that are developmentally appropriate for his or her age. The children choose the peers with whom they will work and play and usually determine how they will use the available materials.<\/span><\/p>\n

These choices empower children to take control of their own learning. Children use materials and equipment in far more creative and innovative ways than we could ever plan, and they use the materials in ways that meet their own developmental needs.<\/span><\/p>\n

Research indicates that intrinsic motivation \u2013 when we work on a task primarily because we find it satisfying \u2013 is the most effective and engaging way to learn. In this program we make an effort to provide materials and activities that provide choice and interest for the children. That\u2019s a key reason that you\u2019ll see busy, involved children when you visit the classroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

What Did You Do At School Today?<\/u><\/span><\/p>\n

 It is difficult for young children to recall and describe what they did during the program day. Children are active and busy for the entire time, but they sometimes lack the words to tell others about their activities \u2013 or by the time you pick them up, they have moved on to other things.<\/span><\/p>\n

Parents, of course, want to know about their child\u2019s day. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind when asking your child about his\/her activities.<\/span><\/p>\n

Keep informed of the class\u2019s planned events so you can ask specific questions. For example, \u201cDid you get to walk to Safeway today, or was it too rainy?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n