The Preschool Child

  

What do we know about Preschool Children?

Research has shown that young children gain knowledge by acting directly on and with objects in their environment.  Through those actions they generate hypothesis, make predictions and draw conclusions about the world.  They are constantly in motion and are rapidly gaining control of their bodies.  They are beginning to interact with people outside the family and to learn how to relate and socialize within a group.  They are tireless experimenters and investigators.  Preschoolers' language skills are developing rapidly and can benefit from encouragement and guidance.  To the preschool child, learning is an exciting endeavor.


The Preschool Child--

 

Cognitively:

-loves to be read to

-learns by doing

-needs encouragement to talk and communicate

-is learning how to listen

-enjoys participating in stories and drama

-models language and actions of others

-is curious and creative

-benefits from concrete sensory experiences

-likes to change tasks frequently

-wants to explore and learn

 

Physically:

-has a great need for activity

-needs a balance of rest and activity

-must develop large and small muscles

-is improving eye-hand coordination

-enjoys music and rhythms

-is beginning to use simple tools

-can remain with one task for only a limited time

-should be given time for free play

 

Emotionally:

needs to know limits and expectations

-should know when a job is well done

-has a great need for security

-is sensitive to the feelings of others

-thrives in a warm and nurturing environment

-needs much success


Socially:

-likes to work and play with others

-is learning to care for personal possessions

-is beginning group interactions

-needs to be encouraged to share

-likes to receive praise

-may with to be alone at times

-enjoys pretending and humor

-may attempt to settle differences physically rather than with words

-likes to be part of a group

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