Chapter 2 Learning About Children 71
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Reading
Review
1. Why should you use proper language
around preschoolers?
2. How can you help preschoolers who
repeat words several times?
Social Development
Preschoolers are more independent
than toddlers. They still, however, need love
and support. As preschoolers learn new
skills, praise them. This helps them gain
confi dence in themselves and their actions.
Preschoolers like to perform tasks
by themselves. “I want to do it” is a
common request. They want to dress
and feed themselves. They want to
help adults. They may ask to help set
the table, feed the dog, or empty the garbage. Preschoolers should be
allowed to help with tasks. This is how they learn to perform bigger
tasks and develop independence.
Often, it is hard for preschoolers to switch from one task to another. For
instance, Nilay does not like to stop playing when it is time for a bath. He
agrees, however, after a while. Soon he is having fun playing in the water.
Then, he refuses to get out of the tub because he is enjoying his bath. Be
patient when caring for preschoolers. They are still learning.
Preschoolers do not say no as often as toddlers. They sometimes have
diffi culty, however, making up their minds. Help them by using simple
directions. When you ask Kaya if she wants to go to the store, she may
quickly decide. Other times, she may take a long time to decide. If this
happens, tell her, “Let’s go to the store.” Be sure to still let preschoolers
make decisions when they do not affect other people.
When you correct children’s behaviors, they may become upset. If this
happens, try removing them from the activity. Watch them until they are
calm. Do not yell. This will only upset the children more. Try to remain
patient and calm.
Preschoolers play and share with other children. They learn to
cooperate, or act or work together with others. Unlike toddlers,
preschoolers interact with each other during playtime. They may play
games that involve creating something together, including rules for how to
play. This is called
cooperative
play.
Sometimes, preschoolers may fi ght. They often, however, make up
quickly. They may need help learning how to be a friend. Set positive
examples for them. Let them know how they should or should not act.
Providing Guidance
Children need to know how they
are expected to behave. They also need
to know what will happen if they do not
meet those expectations. For instance,
you could say to Liam, “The blocks are
for building. If you throw the blocks, you
will lose your turn to play with them.”
Follow through on warnings
you give to children. In the previous
example, you must take the toys away
from Liam when he throws them. If
you do not, he will not learn what will
happen as a result of his actions. He will
also not learn to believe what you say.
Social Studies Link