blame?

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blame?
By RH

I didn't say they were to blame, however, I think all kindergarten teachers need to have an extensive early childhood background to know what's appropriate and what is not. I don't think our hands are as tied as we think.
If we give up and it's out kids that suffer. Play time is beyond important, it is the way children learn and should be an integral part of the curriculum. Play can even help to meet the (albeit ridiculous) standards. It would be a more appropriate way to attempt to meet the standards. Children can accomplish much much more in a play based environment as far as probelm solving, creativity,

content, and social/emotional skills.

Geez, what do we really want here, five year olds who can read and learn to get along in a heteronomous group (even though the very basis for our culture is independence) or five year olds who have developed a foundation for getting along in society, problem solving, creativity, autonomy, and initiative (which really leads to independence, creative thinking, etc.

It's time we told people these ridiculous academics stink and get back to what's important for our kids. I don't think those with an elementary background understand this (obviously by your posting) that is why we need people with extensive early childhood training to foster an appropriate kindergarten curriculum.