Even just little progress, they cheer me up 


This September is a new fresh start for the group room since we had most of our little friends graduated in the summer. It was exciting, a bit chaotic and exhausting for sure but I am so proud that my new group has made some progress at the one month mark. That deserves a celebration and here are some reflections on how I work with the little ones to make it happen. 


To begin with, I have to say I am a strong believer in the “i + 1” learning principle. This concept originally is from one of the theories that Stephen Krashen developed in the second language acquisition. The “i’ means the learner’s current level and “+1” is the next step of difficulty for the leaner. I have found out it also works effecctly with other areas of the development of the young children. Here is how I apply this knowledge to help the little ones settle down through the gradual entry. 


Once I had the dates of each child’s gradual entry, I made a plan. The goal for the first week was to introduce them the setting and make them feel safe and comfortable. Usually, the children are attracted by the toys in the classroom. Some children may show strong reaction to separation anxiety by crying or even screaming. It is hard for the parents, moms, especially but most of the time, the child would calm down in about 10 minutes. I also try to follow the routines except for the circle time, which also tell them my expectations along with the activities and transitions. 


In the second week, i started doing a “”mini circle”, only singing songs and read s story and it was about 10 to 15 minutes. My intention was just introduce the circle time and  help them engane in activities. Since by age of 3, the young children start showing interest in small group acvtities but still have difficulties with sharing and taking turns. Having the little ones participating in the circle activities is a great opportunity for them to pracitice these social skills. 


Then, I exteneded the circle by adding one simple science experiment and Mandarin lesson. After being adjusting for two weeks, most of my little friends acknowledged this centre is a safe place for them to stay and play. Some of them had made new friends and developed a sense of belonging. I also open more oral discussions and encouage them to tell me their needs and wants. For example, I do not do free-play but they can ask for a permission to open the “station” they are interest. I also implement more activities that involves with team work, such building train tracks or Lego Duplo to promote their social skills. 


By week 4, I have learned some personalities of each child and am able to make some adjustments of routines and curriculum. The relationship btween me and the children are bounding stronger so they feel more comfortable to come in every day. Their progress can been surely, even just a little. 


I like to share these positive behaviours and the activities they enjoy with the parents so together we can make our little precious ones grow. 

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