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Home : 2004 : December : 16

OK
By Sarah

Ok, lets start with your routine....
Is it the same every time they are with you, do they know exactly what to expect at any given moment?? They should. You should also decide now what reactions go with which actions
and remain consistant. If newbie 3yr old Johnny does something he's not supposed to...he recieves the exact same consequences as older Peter did yesterday. The only way the younger ones will learn to adapt to the older kids is to be a part of it. The earlier you teach it, the less you'll have to do later. Your activities sound good, but it sounds like you're lacking materials and toys.

How would you feel if you played with the exact same toys everyday. You'd get bored...Go to Goodwill and find some cheap new toys, ask for donations from your parents, they are always willing to help if it means they're kid will be happier. We get tons of donations and all my games and books and puzzles come from Goodwill and Salvation Army...they're in great condition and you can get stuff for under a buck. Kid that age thrive on structure, they like rules and limits and need them. You'll find you get more trust and respect from them if you have boundaries and you don't let them cross those boundaries. Above all remain consistant, and unchanging. What bothers you today should bother you tomorrow. Kids need to know you'll be there. We have all of our 3's together in one room and it works very well. The older ones help the younger ones adapt and function in a more structured environment. Be sure you story time in engaging and interactive, your centers should be engaging and meaningful, and tie into your theme. It's fine that your car center is with blocks...mine always have been; same with dress up and hskg. You should have an open art center and a sensory table of some kind too....3's love that. Keep up the enthusiasm...It's great to see teachers in our field who actually care about what happens in their classrooms!! Good luck! Let me know if you need any tips for storytime or center activities.
Sarah