Isn't the Preschool age a wonderful time? We are not necessarily wondering how to
stimulate my child's mind, we are wondering if we are covering the basics as they are wanting to constantly learn.
Children have a natural desire to learn. We as the caregivers need to ensure they are getting the proper "mind stimulation". Are we making sure they are learning MANY subjects? What about if they are having fun while learning? Are we taking them to places such as museums? the zoo? Any other places of interest that would open the floodgates of questions and stimulation?
How do we know that we are doing enough? I know children naturally
stimulate my child's mind but are we doing our best as teachers or parents? Sometimes I find myself distracted with the day to day activities of life while my 4 year old is asking me questions. How can I incorporate learning with everyday activities?
How can I for instance, teach preschool science? preschool math? How about social studies? Where do I start? I know there are MANY books and resources out there covering "Preschool Lesson Plans" How do I find the right book or article for my child's particular learning style?
I was not aware of the many different learning styles of children until recently.
-Tactile These are the "touch everything" type of kids. They learn best with hands on learning. They don't process verbal directions as well as they do with experiments and hands-on-learning.
Audio These kids find information much easier to retain and process when it is spoken. You tell them once and they've got it. My little neice is like that. It totally amazes me what she remembers.
Aesthetic (Visual)These learners have strong visual processing skills. They see something and it's "stuck" Pictorial representations, diagrams and picture books are all handy learning tools for these little guys.
Kinaesthetic (Practical)A Kinaesthetic Learner will learn much better when involving body movement or practical exercises, often imitating things to learn for themselves. These types of kids to great in sports or dance as they are often very well coordinated.
I hope you join me in my quest to find the "perfect program" for our preschool age children. Until then, have fun with your preschooler and introduce them to many subjects and books and experiences. Bottom line, HAVE FUN with your preschooler. They are only little once.
