Arts & Crafts are often grouped together as a fun, learning experience for children. However, they do NOT mean the same thing. To understand the difference, it is helpful to think of art as open-ended with no clear outcome and the focus is on the process. In contrast, crafts have a goal in mind and are typically teacher- driven. Both arts and crafts offer different learning opportunities. Arts Art provides a creative outlet for children. There is no "right" or "wrong" way to do it. Children can use materials that they choose and want to use. "The goal is the … [Read more...]
Science isn’t scary!
Children are scientists from the moment they are born, using their senses to observe and gain knowledge about the world around them. - RIELDS Many adults feel that they aren't "good at" science or that it is "too hard." Not true! Children are naturally curious about the world. Anyone who has spent time with a young child has heard the question "Why? Why? Why?" Help foster that curiosity by turning them into scientists. Let children experiment and find out "what happens if...?" Give them room to explore and find the answers. Ask silly questions and do an investigation to find out … [Read more...]
Opposites Attract
Teaching children about opposites is so important - it is one of the building blocks that children need to learn how to follow directions, expand their vocabulary, increase comprehension skills, and build observation skills. How can you expand on this important skill? Teach the concept by pointing out the "concept pair." All this means is words that are related. Examples are hot/cold, wet/dry, big/small, soft/hard, etc. If you hand your child a soft toy, mention that it is soft and point out the related concept pair. "Here is a soft teddy bear. What if it was not soft? … [Read more...]
