TS National Touring Guide - Flipbook - Page 12
Our Comprehensive Approach to Learning
Represents a Commitment to the Whole Child
At Teaching Strategies, we firmly believe that a rigorous
approach to early childhood education does not have to be
at odds with developmentally appropriate education.
Authentic integration of literacy and mathematics
Emphasizing the natural ways that young children engage with and understand the world—that is, through
exploration; discovery; and hands-on, “minds-on” learning opportunities—supports not only the development
of the whole child, but also the development of the skills children need to begin school ready to learn—making
early childhood programs the springboard toward better outcomes across the K-12 continuum. What makes
math and literacy rigorous for children of this age is not a 45-minute2 math or literacy block; rather, it is
authentically integrating math and literacy concepts, skill development, and application throughout every
moment of a child’s day3, from large group and choice time to small group and even transitions.
For example, the Question of the Day, presents opportunities to naturally incorporate
math and literacy skill development. Within the Tree study, the teacher will pose the
following question, “Have you ever seen a tree like this? In doing so, she will write
the question out and share a photo, such as an evergreen or a deciduous tree, to build
knowledge of print, letters, words, vocabulary, and comprehension. The children will
respond, “yes or no,” by writing their names in the appropriate column. Nimbly, the
teacher then transitions from literacy to math, leading a discussion helping the children
count how many classmates answered “yes” and “no.” Finally, the class will compare
which response has less and more.
Learn about The Creative
Curriculum® approach
to language and literacy
instruction.
Learn about The Creative
Curriculum® approach to
math instruction.
Comprehensive support for everyone
While educating the whole child involves focusing on guidelines across all areas of
development and learning that are critical to children’s success in school and in life,
it is also important to consider the needs of all key stakeholders. A comprehensive
approach to educating the whole child requires a commitment to taking every part
of a child’s support system into account.
2
10
3
https://www.state.nj.us/education/ece/rttt/ImplementationGuidelines1-3.pdf
https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/yc/may2017/case-brain-science-guided-play
Each child needs
learning opportunities
that are hands-on,
individualized, engaging,
meaningful to their lives,
and fun.
