As a child moves from the toddler environment into an Early Childhood (EC) environment, adults can support this sensitive period by providing them with materials, spaces, and activities that promote independence, exploration, and cooperation.
Here are some examples of materials that adults can provide:
Real-life materials. These are materials that are similar to the materials that adults use in their everyday lives. For example, children can use real-life tools to hammer, saw, and screw.
Open-ended materials. These are materials that can be used in many different ways. For example, blocks can be used to build houses, cars, or anything else that the child can imagine.
Sensory materials. These are materials that appeal to the child's senses. For example, children can explore textures, smells, and sounds.
Here are some examples of spaces that adults can provide:
A variety of spaces. Children need a variety of spaces to explore and play. For example, they need spaces to be active, spaces to be creative, and spaces to be social.
A safe space. The space should be safe for children to explore and play. This means that the space should be free of hazards and that children should be supervised at all times.
Here are some examples of activities that adults can provide:
Active activities. These activities allow children to use their bodies and develop their gross motor skills. For example, children can run, jump, climb, and dance.
Creative activities. These activities allow children to express themselves and develop their fine motor skills. For example, children can draw, paint, sculpt, and build.
Social activities. These activities allow children to interact with each other and develop their social skills. For example, children can play games, work together on projects, and share stories.
By providing children with materials, spaces, and activities that promote independence, exploration, and cooperation, adults can support their development during this sensitive period.
In addition to the above, adults can also support children's development during this sensitive period by:
Being patient. Children may need time to adjust to new materials, spaces, and activities. Be patient and understanding as they learn and grow.
Being positive. Create a positive and supportive environment where children feel safe to explore and learn.
Being present. Spend time with children and engage in activities that they enjoy. This will help them to feel loved and supported