Last winter, I noticed that two students in my room – who ordinarily had played very, very happily together – were showing outward signs that they were frustrated with each other at recess. Teachers and families alike can vouch for the pandemic’s inevitable effect on students’ social skills and social practices, regardless of where they […]
kindergarten
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
Kindergarten nearly broke me: Classroom chaos to virtual success
On my first day in a classroom full of kindergarteners, I stood before them in the most adorable flats designed to look like pencils. On the board, I had the most perfectly crafted calendar full of rainbows and polka dots. My heart and face were full of hope and joy for the year ahead. A […]
Posted inKindergarten
Keep Kindergarten Human in the Age of AI
We’ve heard a lot about artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom, from software that can ace exams to programs that aim to catch cheaters. But one intersection needs a closer look: the consequences of AI for early childhood education, especially in kindergarten. Long ago, our school system was modeled after factories, incorporating principles of standardization, […]
Posted inOpinion
We Must Make School Developmentally Appropriate AgainÂ
Have you signed up for The Educator’s Room Daily Newsletter? Click here and support independent journalism! During the first week of school, kindergarten teachers everywhere can be heard reading Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten by Joseph Slate. Miss Bindergarten is a caring and notably hairy teacher with a passion for education and a wagging […]
Posted inInstruction & Curriculum
5 Free Reading Apps for Parents to Utilize
Reading is fundamental-especially in the middle of a pandemic! We all know the importance of reading. With schools transitioning to virtual learning and public libraries being closed, it is critical to keep our students reading and knowing the tools we can use to help them stay engaged. Here are some apps and websites students can […]
Posted inBack to School
Still Learning from Kindergarten to Say “Yes” or “No”
I watched as 18 sweaty kindergarten students filed back into their classroom after their first-ever outdoor recess period. Some walked confidently to a seat; a few hesitated, scanning the room before finding their assigned chair. Soft music played in the dimly lit classroom, and there were some papers and crayons laid out on each table. […]
Posted inChild Development
Connecting Motor Skills And Academic Achievement
We know how important it is to allow young children time to just play and be kids. We want them to run, be active and engage in group games that will help hone gross motor and social skills. Play is an integral part of learning for children, and believe it or not there is an […]
Posted inKindergarten
Kindergarten Readiness: 10 MORE Things Your Child Should Know
Last week, I explored the academic side of Kindergarten readiness. But school readiness is not all about regurgitating facts because some things just cannot be measured. One child’s brain development differs from another’s, but there are many things that teachers look for that have nothing to do with intelligence. Here are 10 more things to […]