Recognizing the unique growth of children, learning in preschool is tailored to the specific needs of each child. Through formal and informal assessments, the level of knowledge and understanding is determined, creating a point of reference for further instruction. Through individualized and small group instruction, children are presented with activities to compliment what they know and encourage growth as indicated.
A case in point would be reading readiness. Some children are working on alphabet recognition and phonemic awareness. Some children are concentrating on beginning sounds while others are working on rhyming words. Some children are blending sounds and beginning to read three and four letter words. Still others are reading words and sentences. Reading comprehension and the ability to recall detail are part of the process.
Math is another area where differentiated instruction is a part of the preschool learning experience. Many diversified skills are happening concurrently. Children are learning to recognize numbers. Those who recognize 0 through 10 are introduced to two-digit numbers, followed by three-digit numbers if they are ready. In addition, children are learning to count, both by rote and using a one-to-one correlation. As their understanding of numbers increases, children are introduced to units of tens and ones as related to specific numbers (ie three tens and two ones is 32).
Other math concepts are also prevalent in the classroom. Addition and subtraction are incorporated in many fingerplays, flannel board stories, and books. They are also introduced through individual and small group activities. Measurement is integrated in meaningful activities. Geometry is a common part of the classroom experience, as are size and spatial relations.
It is important to remember, each child is an individual. Comparing your child to another child would be like comparing apples and oranges. Please accept your child for who s/he is, a gift from God. Together, we will help your child to grow in knowledge and ability.