Reply to Inspired Teaching's Learning Showcase

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]I toured it recently and thought that there was too much emphasis on literacy in the 3 year old room and barely any evidence of great play-based materials and activities. Can anyone comment on this? Perhaps it is just that the school has very few materials yet as it is new? I noticed this in other rooms as well--this was a weekend tour so I only saw the rooms, no people. I feel that there is no need to begin formal reading at age 3, but perhaps this is just a philosophical difference. I was surprised by what I saw as I was expecting a more play-based, progressive classroom based on what I have heard about the school.[/quote]

There's a great balance between academics and play-based program.  It's definitely not a church-basement program that calls itself "play-based" and is, for all purposes, a supervised playdate with 10 kids.  This is these children's first experience with school - and it's been a very positive one.  In one PS3 room, in a given day, you'll see a morning meeting, center time daily (includes blocks, dramatic play, puzzles, "writing" center with markers and drawing materials, manipulatives, art projects, reading corner, etc.), outdoor time twice daily, dance class, lunch, recess, 1.5-2 hours for naps, center time again after naps, and a closing circle.  I think that the literacy you mention is instructed no more than 30-45 minutes a few times a week.  There are plenty of manipulatives and materials for the kids to use.  They are not teaching 3 year olds to read, they are teaching letters and sounds.  It's totally appropriate instruction for this age group.  I'm thrilled my DC is learning letter and numbers.  They do it in a fun, easy, exciting way to create familiarity with these concepts.  If it's really a concern for you, visit during a school day when you can see kids engaging in the classroom.  Every kid is happy, cared for, and LEARNING. [/quote]

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