Center time provides an opportunity for open-ended play that encourages children to explore and engages their natural curiosity. Stock centers with a wide selection of age-appropriate toys and items that can be used in multiple ways. Examples of effective centers include dramatic play centers with plenty of costumes with Velcro fasteners for little hands, construction centers with connecting blocks and science centers with plastic magnifying lenses and many materials to explore.
Young children thrive on routine. Knowing what comes next helps children feel secure. Establishing a daily schedule and abiding by the schedule helps cut down on confusion and allows each child in your classroom to look forward to the next activity. An effective schedule allows for creative free play, art, structured curriculum learning, outside time and quiet activities.
Learning circle time should follow a prescribed curriculum and cover a few topics at a time. Young children have short attention spans. Cramming too much information in one circle session can result in fidgeting, acting out or other inappropriate behavior. Break learning time into at least two sessions, with one focusing on letters, numbers and language and the other focusing on shapes and colors. Make sure you incorporate your weekly unit theme into your circle time work.
Transitions can be the most stressful part of the day for both young children and their teachers. Effective transitions begin with a carefully planned schedule. At the beginning of each activity, set a timer and notify the children at the 10-minute, five-minute and two-minute mark. Allow time for each child to complete her task before moving on to another task. Sing special songs when transitioning from one activity to another. Make sure each activity has its own special space. For example, have circle time in one area of the room and have the following activity, such as art, in a separate part of the room. Having separate facilities for each activity signals to children that the previous activity is over and it is time to focus on a new task.
Schedules, lesson plans and transitions all help teachers manage their early childhood classroom, but children need time to blow off steam, play and explore. By allowing children to direct their own experiences, teachers foster a sense of independence. When children feel in control of their own environment, they are more cooperative and meet developmental milestones during the optimal time period.