Exploring classroom centers is some of our students favorite time of day! We change the centers once a month, and the children are so excited to explore all the new activities and experiences each month. Learning centers are an important part of preschool. Learning centers are defined areas with activities, within a classroom, where children can explore and learn with hands-on materials. Learning centers allow for independently guided play with peers, social interactions and problem solving practice. Research shows that young children learn best through active, hands-on play; learning centers engage children and make learning fun. Children manipulate materials, explore ideas, discover consequences, build, create and express themselves through art. To parents it may look like children are “just playing,” but this is play with a purpose. Through carefully planned learning centers, children learn important concepts and life skills in ways that are meaningful to them.
Notice the “snow” that’s EVERYWHERE? It’s the favorite new center for January…the Antarctic habitat in the sensory table. It may be everywhere…messy is the most fun!
