The World of Loose Parts: Undervalued Materials, pt 2
When I first started in my new classroom two years ago, I was overwhelmed by the amount of closed-ended toys and primary colors that filled the room. In many ways it opposed my training and my own natural preferences. Although disheartened at first, I realized that change was possible, but it would happen slowly, and it needed to be intentional. As I sorted through the ample supply of toys and closed-ended materials, I realized that as much as I may not like many of them from
Technology in the Preschool Classroom
While Wildwood Nature School is a nature-based program, we also make full use of 21st century technology. Young children are aware of and extremely excited by all of the amazing things technology can do. They see their parents on phones and computers all day long and are eager to explore the media themselves. Rather than ignoring technology, we strive to use it as a tool to better understand the natural environment around us. Remembering that technology is a tool is the key t
Celebrating Pride Month with Preschoolers
As Early Childhood Educators, we know it is necessary to create welcoming environments that reflect and support the diversity among the families in our care. An integral part of anti-bias curriculum is to teach children to be proud of themselves and their families. Teaching pride in ourselves and others makes children more grounded, more tolerant and more understanding. And what better time to celebrate pride than June — a month dedicated to proudly celebrate the diversity am
