Are You Wondering What Is An Appropriate Learning Activity For Preschoolers? 3 Questions That Help You Identify One
The preschool years are a time when children begin to exhibit more independence and an interest in learning new things. Parents and educators of preschoolers can tap into this time of curiosity and wonder to help children learn many basic skills that they will use for the rest of their life such as how to read and write. While most people understand that kids this age should be learning their letters and numbers, it is sometimes hard to know when an activity is appropriate for the child. These four questions will help you know when you've found an appropriate learning activity that will keep kids busy and teach them new things.
Does the Child Fall Within the Recommended Age Range?
One of the first questions that you need to ask is whether or not the activity is safe for a preschooler. Most learning materials come with an age range included in the instructions that serve as a guideline to prevent injuries. Checking the recommended age range can also help to minimize frustration since this generally means that it is planned with the average preschooler's abilities in mind.
Does It Target Specific Developmental Needs?
A learning activity should have an intentional purpose. For instance, you might have a child sort objects according to their colors if you are working on color recognition. A child who is working on their writing skills might make letters in sand. When possible, start by assessing the child's needs to plan activities that reinforce or introduce specific concepts.
Can You Provide the Appropriate Level of Assistance?
The success of an activity also depends upon how it is implemented at home or in the classroom. For instance, you will need to check the activity to determine if the child can work on it alone. If the child needs assistance, then make sure that you or another adult is available to work on the activity together. This is one way to make a more challenging activity appropriate for a child who has emerging abilities that need to be strengthened.
Will It Keep the Child Engaged?
As a final check, you want to make sure that the activity is interesting enough to keep the child engaged. Even with an age-appropriate learning activity, children may not learn much if they quickly give up or grow bored. Activities that engage a child's senses and encourage active participation tend to be the most appropriate ones to use with preschoolers.