Preschool
Learning Centers
Early
Childhood Center
Preschool
learning centers are child friendly spaces where kids can explore,
learn, create
and relax. Optimize the space in your classroom to create a smooth flow
from one center to the next. Always keep in mind the needs of the
children and your own.
Center
Guidelines:
 Label:
Each center needs to be marked with a picture and should have
it's own
defined space. You can also show the number of children that are
allowed in each center.
Picture:
Use
a picture to remind the children of the way the center looks like when
it is clean. It is a great way to teach children to be responsible and
autonomous
Made to
measure:
The furniture in the classroom should be comfortable and fit the size
of the children.
The
number discussion:
Many
teachers like to limit the number of children at each center. I do not
agree with this approach. In my opinion children should be able to make
their own choices and play at any preschool learning center they like
for as long as they
like to. That being said I do encourage them to try new things
and
play with other children.
Preschool
learning centers lingo:
Teach the children that sometimes centers are OPEN and sometimes
they are CLOSED.
We also use the words COMPULSORY
and FREE.
Compulsory means they need to come to this center and free
means they
can choose to go to this center.
 
Center
T.I.M.E.
Music/Listening
Center: This center should include: Tape/CD player,
headphones, books on tape and musical instruments.
Creative Center:
Used to be called the dolly corner. This center has a kitchen,
a table, a mirror and a dress up bin. Reinvent this center frequently
by connecting it to
the children's interest or your teaching unit. For example turn it into
a grocery store, a farm, a coffee
shop or a hospital.
Writing/Art Center: Keep lots of
papers, markers, crayons, glue and scissors at reach. Ideally use
clear containers without covers.
Construction Center:
Blocks and Lego, carpet with picture of a road.
Open this center often. It is a great center for kinesthetic learners.
Vary it by adding dinosaurs, farm animals, little people and so on.
Library/Book Center: A comfy couch, pillows and a carpet
along with a changing library that carries books relating to your
teaching unit.
Painting Center:
Paint, easel, smocks and paint brushes. Children should paint at least
once a week. It helps their creativity and gross motor development.
Ideally the
painting center should be located close to the sink.
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from
Preschool Learning Centers to Homepage
"A
teacher affects
eternity"
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