MAGIC CIRCLE PRESCHOOL OBJECTIVES:
To provide a program that encourages the development of the child - physically, cognitively, linguistically, socially and emotionally. The program encourages self-directed, active, play-based learning. When children are allowed to decide how they will spend their time, they develop qualities such as autonomy, judgement, independent decision making, social give-and-take, initiative, exploration and creativity. In addition, children develop a reasonable amount of compliance, they understand the rules of group behavior and they accept the authority and wisdom of their teachers in safety related issues. Indoor space is organized into « Play to learn » centres which offer a rich variety of materials to suit many different interests. « Play to learn » centres can include art, manipulatives, dramatic play, sensory experiences, blocks, writing materials, music, science, math, language arts, books, problem solving, woodworking, cooking and a variety of other options to stimulate and intrigue all the unique interests, developmental needs, and characteristics of a group of preschool-age children. PLAY:
Play is one of the most important and necessary part of a child’s day. Play serves as a means of learning about and making sense of the world. It is essential to all aspects of children’s development. It is an activity which is concerned with the whole of his being, not with just one small part of him and to deny him the right to play is to deny him the right to live and grow. Play promotes mastery as children practice skills; it furthers cognitive development as thinking abilities are stretched: it involves language, encouraging new uses, it involves physical activity; it helps children work through emotions; its inventive nature makes it creative; it is often a socializing event; Beyond all that, it provides a way for children to assimilate and integrate their life experiences. Play is a serious undertaking necessary to healthy development for all children.