In the library corner, the children can curl up with a book. This area stimulates the child’s in literature and books and opens the door to the world of imagination. Books and puzzles are rotated in this center bi-weekly in order to maintain the interest of children. Soft, comfy items are placed in this center to make it the favorite cozy spot in the room.

Here children feel a sense of creativity and accomplishment as they explore the various art media. Materials at this center vary from glue, construction paper, markers, crayons, colored pencils, stencils, chalk, paint, scissors, etc. Here children create whatever they can think up! Fine motor and eye-hand coordination are developed. The emphasis is on the “process” rather than the finished product.

Each day a new science project and an art project are place data table. Children may spend as much time as they like at these centers as they create and investigate. Throughout the entire day the children are given the opportunity to explore such Pre-academic skills as colors, shapes, “same and different”, sequencing, classification, numbers, letters, listening, and following directions. They are also given the chance to practice fine-motor movements. These activities are emphasized as the children participate in the Art and Science Projects.

Through dramatic play with the various props, the children can us imagination to “escape” the limitations of age and size. Each week the theme in this center is changed. Props to go with the theme and 4 costumes (representing 4 roles that children can play) are placed in the center. Themes for this center are endless, and will include a restaurant, a doctor’s office, a farm, a school room, and many, many, more!

Manipulative toys and games provide for the development of fine-motor coordination as well as the exploration of size, shape, and spatial relationships.

A wide variety of blocks provides for the development of eye- hand coordination as well as creativity and accomplishment. Children practice language and social skills as they learn to “work together” to complete a task. Cars and little people are used in this center to further encourage the use of imagination in whatever exciting world they create.

In this area, children can run, jump, use riding equipment, throw and catch balls, etc… This aides in the development of the large muscle and coordination as well as providing a physical outlet for energy.

Children may listen to tapes, records, and explore a variety
of musical instruments such as cymbals, drums, bells, and triangles. This center is for 2 children at a time, but these instruments will also be used in group settings for a “band” or “parade”.

Water, sand, rice, and packing peanuts are a few items that have a turn in this table. Here children can measure and pour, fill and empty, sift and sort…the possibilities are endless.