The Preschool Times

This week as we got ready to end another Summer VPK program, it occurred to me just how similar the classroom microcosm is to general society. The summer VPK program is a unique situation for us. All of the students are relatively new to our program. Each hails from a different school or home setting. They are pilgrims to our school.  They bring with them various skills, expectations, and cultural behaviors.

During the first few days, their preconceived expectations reveal themselves through their behaviors and needs. It is the teacher’s job, to assess the needs of her classroom members and develop a plan for the obtainment of the school’s goals, much like a city council or town mayor.

In the beginning of each year, we also have many of the problems of a new society. Invariably one child will take something that doesn’t belong to him/her: one will try to physically get their way, one will report on everyone in the group, and a few will play nicely together. The parents of the children will perceive these events either as part of the civilization process, or a “problem” to be fixed.

The first step in the society building process is to decide on a few basic rules, which are based on guiding principals. The school’s guiding principals go something like this:

1. Every child is entitled to feel and be safe.
2. Every child has the right to an education.
3. Every child’s cultural background is to be respected.
4. Every child has the right to be prepared for the future.

The children are given the task to agree upon five basic rules. Our rules are always based on the positive. Common rules for the preschool setting might look like the following:

1. We use kind hands.
2. We use inside voices.
3. We listen to each other.
4. We use walking feet while inside.
5. We take turns.

These become our governing rules. We put plans in process to help the children learn and adhere to the rules. When the children fail to observe the rules after several warnings, the result will be a pre-determined consequence. The consistent application of the rules helps the children understand what is expected of them and how to operate in this environment. When the children understand that the rules are in place to make sure each individual is treated with respect and has the right to grow: physically, emotionally and cognitively. They become invested in the school community. As an administrator, I know we have all done our job; when we see the children accepting each others strengths and weaknesses, and valuing each other as an important member of the classroom.

Peace & Light,

Grace