CURRICULUM

Welcome to the Preschool 2 classroom that serves the 3 and 4-year-old Lakers! We use the Creative Curriculum which enables the children to become independent in their learning environment and have options in what they are learning. We do not focus on a particular theme in the classroom, rather we do studies. A new study begins with children expressing their interests while using their imagination to influence our weekly focuses and learning objectives. We encourage the study choices to be related to children's interactions within their daily lives. Once the topic is chosen, we brainstorm ideas of what we would like to learn and avenues for learning. Our studies range from a week to a month, depending on the interest and engagement of children on the topic.

Being located on-campus provides children with enhanced learning opportunities through engagement with University departments, attendance to special events, and playtime in recreation facilities. When weather permits, children enjoy outside activities and learning about nature.

• EMOTIONS - Children begin to understand and identify their emotions. They are encouraged to use words to explain their feelings to their friends and teachers. The goal is to help them form positive social interactions and maintaining safe emotional and physical spaces in the classroom.
• HEALTHY HABITS - Occasionally we are going to try to get into the kitchen and start assisting with recipe reading and food exploration. Hands-on learning in the kitchen is a lot of fun and the children love to be a part of seeing how food is prepared and put together. Additionally, this will help them become better acquainted with healthy foods and eating choices, which is something we are striving to understand in our room every day.
• INDEPENDENCE - Choice time provides children with the opportunity to use imaginative play, create deeper relationships with other children and teachers, and explore items around the room at their own free will.
• SMALL GROUP -  A combination of teacher-led learning and independent learning. The children have the ability to work on skills such as sorting, cutting, writing, gluing, which improve fine-motor and problem-solving skills.
• LARGE GROUP - A combination teacher-led learning, discussion, and storytime. Topics of discussion vary from the weather to who is missing from class. Lessons include letter and number recognition, sounds, shapes, and colors.