Early Childhood Washtenaw: Shall We Gather

Across curriculum models and program types, the importance of gathering children together in groups, large and small, is emphasized as a critical element of the preschool experience. What those groups look like can vary widely. Here are some whys and hows about group times in Head Start and GSRP classrooms.

Why have group times?

Group times allow children to feel like part of a community and to have common experiences that tie them together. During large group times, children have the opportunity to learn how to be a part of the group, to listen to the teacher and to other children as well as how to be a leader themselves. During small group times, children work alongside a teacher and a group of up to 8 of their peers to explore and learn. Some children may be more willing and able to express themselves within a smaller group.

Standard Elements of Group Times:

· Built around children’s interests, classroom activities or study topics, community events, development and learning objectives or other curriculum materials

· Allow for active learning. The five elements of active learning according to HighScope are :

o Materials o Manipulation o Choice

o Child Thought and Language o Adults Scaffolding

· In addition to the specific activities to occur during group time, teachers should plan for a gathering activity or introduction as well transition activities at the end

· During planning, teachers must also consider the variety of developmental levels of the children in the classroom and plan for ways to accommodate them all

Other Notes about Group Times in General:

· May occur spontaneously- teachable moments cannot always be planned!

· Can provide a great way to introduce new materials in the classroom

· Teachers should reflect on the effectiveness and enjoyment of their group times at the end of the day. Consider:

What went well?
What could be changed to make the activity more effective?
Was the format suitable? (Ex: would your large group time activity be better received as a small group time activity)
What other follow up might be needed? (Ex. New materials to add to the classroom, notes to write, etc.