AboutCindy Caporaso Expertise I can answer questions in various areas of child development including ages and stages, how to foster growth in the development of young children, what to look for in early childhood centers and in early childhood providers. and ways to stimulate a child`s natural curiosity.
Experience I have been working in the field of Early Childhood Education for over 25 years. I hold a B.A. degree in Education and a Master of Education in Human Development. I alsop provide training to early childhood educators rlating to their work. Currently, I am teaching a Child Development Associate course at my school. I am also the kindergarten teacher. In the past, I have been the lead teacher for children from infancy through school-age.
Organizations NAEYC
Education/Credentials B.A. degree in Education 1980
M.Ed degree in Human Development/Counseling 1986
Expert: Cindy Caporaso Date: 4/3/2008 Subject: mat times or group times
Question In a centre where there are ages 2-5 what do you see as the importance for mat times or group times and children attendance to this, for example should all children be made to sit down together for a story, music or a chat.
Answer Hi Jackie,
Thanks for the great question.
It always bothers me when I see meeting time (some call it circle time) be made mandatory for all of the children at the same time. The developmental age range in any given early childhood class can sometimes be as great as 18 months.
I never made meeting time or story time mandatory...until kindergarten because story time was rich with comprehension, reading skills, and discussion. Other than that, the centers were open and children were free to work on something as long as they did not disrupt the large group activity.
I have heard teachers say that this is not fair and that if one does not have to go to story time, then all of the kids will want to pass on it. I disagree and have never found this to be true!
I do not think it is fair to have everyone work on the same thing at the same time when there are so many interests and tasks that deserve the attention of the children. Also, I worked hard to see that my classroom was relevant to the lives of each child and I saw this come alive when they were permitted to carve out their own experiences. Furthermore, if children are permitted to work on activities and skill, I can almost guarantee that there will be fewer, if any, behavior problems. Have you ever witnessed a story or meeting time where one child is disrupting the entire group? Not a fun situation.
Let them choose. Just make sure that you let parents know what you are doing and explain the skills that the children are building as they work in different areas.
Write back and let me know how it is going..if you want.
