Chapter 2 Types of Early Childhood Programs
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The other group might attend all day on Tuesday
and Thursday, as well as Friday afternoon. For
some children, these alternating schedules may be
confusing. Studies show that children thrive on
predictable schedules.
Goals
Goals for a kindergarten program vary from
state to state. During the past decade, these
programs have become more academic and focus
on areas such as math, literacy, and science. Goals
may include developing the following:
literacy skills that include oral language,
phonological awareness, letter knowledge,
and print knowledge
math skills that include number sense,
measurement, geometry, and calculating
life science that focuses on animals, the
human body, and plants
earth science that focuses on weather and
recycling
social studies skills that focus on family
life, lifestyles, and responsibilities to peers
and society (Figure 2.5)
social learning skills that foster the
development of self-esteem and self-worth;
following directions, using time wisely,
positive peer interactions, and developing
independence
Curriculum
Kindergarten curriculum may vary depending
on state’s core learning standards and school district
requirements. Learning standards are tools that are
agreed upon by state boards of education with the
assistance of educators in the fi eld. They represent
the agenda that has been determined for teaching
and learning. Standards are designed to help
teachers set goals, plan curriculum, and evaluate the
students and themselves.
School-Age Child Care
School-age child care programs provide
care for children before and/or after school.
They are designed for families of working
families. These programs are often sponsored by
schools, preschools, YMCAs, YWCAs, religious
organizations, or child care centers. Children
from 5 to 10 years old most often attend. The
program supplements regular classes. These
children are provided assistance with homework.
They also play games and take part in other large
motor activities.
As an alternative, some parents use check-in
services. These services hire workers who call
the home to check whether the child has arrived
safely. This is a good option only for children
who are mature enough to provide self-care until
parents arrive.
Parent Cooperatives
Parent cooperatives are preschools, usually
serving children from 3 to 5 years old. They are
typically formed and run by parents. Parents
bring a unique understanding of their child,
which helps the teacher create a learning
environment that meets the need of each child.
Parents assist in the classroom on a rotating basis
Figure 2.5 Children can learn about family roles in
kindergarten programs.
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