Exploring Play-Based Learning, Emergent Curriculum, and Adult-Child Relationships
When it comes to finding the best child care for your little one, the options can be overwhelming. Every parent wants their child to thrive in a nurturing and stimulating environment. So, how do you ensure your child receives the best care possible? In this blog post, we’ll dive into the importance of play-based learning, emergent curriculum, and positive adult-child relationships in child care settings. I’ll also provide you with valuable tips and questions you can ask so you can choose the right child care that aligns with these principles. Let’s get started!
Play-Based Learning: Unleashing the Power of Play
Play is not just a pastime for children; it is their natural way of exploring the world and acquiring knowledge. Play-based learning recognizes the importance of hands-on experiences, creative expression, and imaginative play in early childhood development. When choosing child care look for programs that prioritize play-based activities, such as sensory play, pretend play and outdoor exploration. Incorporating play into the learning process fosters curiosity, problem-solving skills, and social-emotional development, setting a solid foundation for lifelong learning.
What to look for;
In the daily schedule are there large chunks of time allotted for play, both indoors and outdoors?
Do the available materials encourage different types of play;
Are there open-ended play materials (materials that can be used in a variety of ways, determined by the children using them)?
Are there a variety of sensory materials (sand, water, playdough, etc.)?
Are there items that encourage pretend play (dress-up clothes, dishes, dolls etc.)?
Are there materials that support a variety of types of movement (riding toys, rocking toys, balance beams, balls, etc.)
Do early childhood educators (ECE’s) document and share learning that occurs through play?
Do ECE’s engage in play with children and follow the children’s lead?
Emergent Curriculum: Child-Centered Approach To Learning
Emergent Curriculum is a child-centered approach that follows the interests and passions of each child allowing learning to emerge organically. Instead of rigidly adhering to a predetermined curriculum, child care providers observe children’s interests and use them as a starting point for planning activities and projects. This approach encourages active engagement, autonomy and critical thinking. Seek child care centers that embrace emergent curriculum as they prioritize personal learning experiences that cater to your child’s unique strengths and interests.
What to look for;
Planning is done daily based on children’s interests and developmental levels. There are no predetermined themes planned for a month.
Activities are planned to accommodate for variance in skill levels. Children of the same age are not expected to be at the same level in all areas of development.
ECE’s scaffold learning. They know where the child is currently, what the next step is and plan for how they will support that learning.
Process is more important than product. Children choose their own art materials and what to do with them instead of all children being expected to make the same thing as determined by the teacher.
Building Positive Adult-Child Relationships: The Key to Emotional Well-Being
The relationship between a child and their caregiver is paramount in early childhood development. I consider this to be the most important factor in choosing a child care program. Children who feel secure and supported by their caregivers are more likely to thrive emotionally, socially and academically. When evaluating child care options, pay attention to how the ECE’s interact with the children. Look for signs of warmth, responsiveness and respectful communication. A positive adult-child relationship promotes trust, empathy, and a sense of belonging, fostering a positive learning environment.
What to look for;
If a child is upset, they readily seek out the ECE for comfort.
ECE’s respond to an upset child calmly and caringly.
ECE’s acknowledge and validate children’s feelings.
ECE’s appear to genuinely enjoy their interaction with the children.
Does the child care provider have specific policies and practices in regards to adult-child interactions? Are there consistent expectations and training for ECE’s that emphasize positive, responsive adult-child interactions?
Ask questions about specific situations, such as;
How would you respond to a child that is upset when their parent leaves?
What would happen if my child hit another child?
What if a child doesn’t sleep during rest time?
How would you respond to a conflict between children?
What if my child refuses to eat their lunch?
Choosing the Right Child Care: Key Considerations
Now that we understand the significance of play-based learning, emergent curriculum, and adult-child relationships, let’s explore some essential factors to consider when choosing child care:
1. Research and Visit: Conduct thorough research, read reviews, and visit potential child care centers. You can ask to see the latest licensing report for the program. If possible, talk to parents with children that have or are currently attending the center.
Observe the environment, interaction between caregivers and children, and the availability of play materials.
2. Qualifications and Training: Inquire about the qualifications and training of caregivers. Look for certificates or degrees in early childhood education, as well as ongoing professional development opportunities. Inquire about the philosophy or specific curriculum model for the center and what training is required for staff.
3. Safety and Cleanliness: Ensure that the child care center follows strict safety protocols, including child-proofing, emergency preparedness, and hygiene practices. Arrival and departure procedures are important to assure everyone’s safety.
How are children accounted for as they arrive and leave the center?
How are children accounted for during transitions; ie, from one room to another, to or from outside, when there is a staff change?
Is there a secure entrance procedure for parents and visitors?
If your child has an allergy or health concern how will that be accommodated and monitored to assure the child’s well-being?
4. Parent Involvement: Seek child care centers that encourage parent involvement. Regular communication, parent-teacher conferences, and family events can help foster a collaborative partnership in your child’s learning journey. Many programs now have ways to communicate with families electronically on a daily basis. If they have a social media platform make sure you are comfortable with what they post and how who has access is managed.
Several visits with your child prior to starting can help with the transition and ease your concerns.
5. Trust Your Instincts: Trust your gut feeling. If something doesn’t feel right or align with your values, continue your search until you find a child care center that resonates for you and your child. Ask all of the questions you have. Trust me, ECE’s and program supervisors appreciate parent’s questions. It is in everyone’s best interest that you have peace of mind with your choice of child care.
Conclusion
I also want to acknowledge that depending on your circumstances or availability of child care, options may be limited. Cost, location and hours of care are important considerations in choosing the best childcare option for your family. Here are some additional resources that may be helpful in the search;
Choosing the right child care for your young one is a crucial decision that can impact their early development and your peace of mind. By prioritizing play-based learning, emergent curriculum, and positive adult-child relationships, you’re providing your child with a solid foundation for future success. Remember to research, visit and trust your instincts when making this important choice. With the right child care setting you will have support on your parenting journey that will support your child’s journey of discovery, growth and learning. All the best in finding the child care choice that is just right for you and your child.
~R.M. Couse~
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