Curriculum

  • Creative Curriculum - this is approach that is used at most preschools today, with the room divided into areas and centers. Housekeeping, blocks, table toys, art, sensory box etc. Works well for a mixed age group with varying developmental levels. The teacher must prepare activities for each area every day, to present learning challenges. If the teacher is not dedicated and experienced, the exploratory play becomes repetitive. A parent can use this approach at home, by setting up a variety of activities, and guiding the child from one to the next, at the child's pace.
  • High/Scope - an organized approach best used in group situations, for older preschoolers. Children discuss and plan what they will be doing during the class session, then do it, then reflect on what they did. The sequence is called Plan -Do - Review.
  • Montessori - Maria Montessori's approach has stood the test of time (100 years!). Children direct their own learning in an environment of prepared experiences. Uses ordered, fitted blocks and other materials that guide children to segue from the simple to the complex and from the concrete to the abstract. Creative art was not part of the curriculum at first, but is now incorporated in many Montessori learning centers. The Montessori blocks and other self correcting materials can be purchased for at home use.
  • Waldorf/Steiner - a deeply philosophical and controversial approach introduced in Europe in the early years of the 20th century. It emphasizes classicism, natural surroundings and objects, and spirituality.
  • The Project Approach - usually used as a part of other learning approaches, and by pre-K age or older. A topic that a child or group of children seem very interested in is chosen for a study in depth. Can last from 1 day to many weeks, and several projects can continue at the same time. This approach is very suitable for children and parents at home.
  • Reggio Emilia - begun in some Northern Italian preschools about 20 years ago, using the concept of emergent curriculum. This similar to the project approach, in that topics are studied as they emrge as an interest from the children. Teachers are not really able to plan ahead, but offer different learning experiences every day as new subjects arise. Emphasis on beauty, art, discussing what is being done, and groups cooperating together on tasks and learning.