Monday, June 9, 2014

When Choosing A Preschool Medford Oregon Families Should Follow These Tips

When Choosing A Preschool Medford Oregon Families Should Follow These Tips


by Sally Delacruz


The right preschool program can make a huge impact on a child's early learning experiences and development. It is up to the parents to make sure that the school they select offers an environment that will foster the child's social and cognitive learning. By personally visiting each preschool Medford Oregon families can best evaluate them and see to it that each of the following essential qualities is present.

The school should have clean floors and toys and not have any unpleasant odors. Cleanliness is important, but messiness is to be expected as this is merely an indication that the children are thoroughly enjoying the many activities available to them. The children should have personal cubbies and washrooms equipped with child-sized washrooms, and also have easy access to snacks and all classroom materials at all times. The room should be organized into areas offering various activities like art, building, reading, water play and such.

Independent and group play are the main vehicles through which young children learn. A healthy preschool environment consists of a classroom abuzz with the action of children playing and interacting together, and participating in "circle time" with their teachers to hear stories or sing songs. The emphasis should be on free play as opposed to structure.

A teacher who is trained to work with preschool children, between three and five years old, needs to be able to effectively relate to them and know how to resolve any concerns or inevitable disagreements they may have with their classmates. The focus is on building strengths and providing assistance with any obstacles the child may face, while treating each as a unique individual.

The teachers must also demonstrate the appropriate body language for working with preschoolers. This includes physically placing oneself at their level by crouching or kneeling down and making eye contact which sends a message of concern and makes the teacher seem more approachable to the children. Teachers should put the kids at ease at all times and be an ongoing source of encouragement and support.

There should be plenty of the children's artwork displayed throughout the classroom. This shows that creativity is valued in the class and gives the little ones a sense of pride and accomplishment when they can see their creations on display. Children need the freedom to do their own thing artistically at this age and a good school will emphasize this.

The classroom materials need to stimulate creativity and exploration should be varied, in fairly good shape, and suitable for use by children of this age. Imagination can be used in simulated real-life play centers such as a kitchen, doctor's office etc., and through dressing up in various types of clothes and uniforms. Other items such as books, blocks, dolls, cars, and supplies for arts and crafts should also be available.

While formal evaluation is generally not emphasized at the preschool level, ideally the teachers should keep track of each child's development and progress as it can help identify any delays. It's best if such issues can be recognized and addressed prior to when the child starts kindergarten, a good preschool will notice any areas the child struggles in, and help him or her overcome them as much as possible.




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