Mother Goose On the Loose and the Junior Kindergarten program is at it again! This time we’re exploring a science activity and welcome you to follow along!

The supplies within this lesson are pretty preschool-specific but you could use objects around your home to still accomplish or order the kit here;

STEM Starters: Egg Drop 

We planned for this around our science time because we had the kids first hypothesize what they think would happen to the egg. This was  a small, intimate small group session where of course we started by reading Humpty Dumpty, of course! Since many of the students have grown up in the preschool program, they knew the nursery rhyme but were excited about the question. Could YOU break Humpty Dumpty’s fall? With sass, they all knew the egg would drop from the small group discussion but thought they were smart enough to create a barrier!

They then split up into teams to design! We used the STEM starters kit but had each set of kids build their own barrier together, you could use other objects around your home if you’d like too.

Next, on a sheet of paper the kids wrote their predictions! The scientific process can and should be introduced at this age (4.5 years old) since it triggers multiple parts of a child’s brain! They have to think 2 steps ahead, slow down and use their imagination to predict possible outcomes and work together as a team to succeed. That’s a lot for a four year old!

So here’s how it went. Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. Feelings were mixed about the yoke, no pun intended. Glad it was a happy, impactful lesson!

This week at Young Scholars Academy Colorado Springs we’re exploring the timeless mother goose rhymes! For fun, we’ve named the curriculum week, “Mother Goose On The Loose!” This super simple lesson was made with the intention to be recreated at home!

In this lesson you don’t have to use or purchase new socks like we did, but you can explore other ideas with it like Tie Dye or “oldish” socks as well!

Supplies:

• Socks, a great pair works! We purchased ours from Walmart; 3 pairs for .98 cents!
• Fabric markers, also purchased from Amazon; prices range from $15.00-$11.99

Other Ideas from home;

-Glitter, patches, tie dye (as previously mentioned), sewing kit, for those that like to incorporate that skill into their households!

As a class, our Junior Kindergarten classroom read through the well-known nursery rhyme “There Was an Old Woman who Lived in a Shoe.” The infamous old woman was first published in an edition of Mother Goose in 1901. Who knew it would still make an impact to this day! since most of the class was “disgusted” that a woman would live in a stinky shoe, we had them decorate their own socks as a barrier. Behold, their creations!

We decided to dedicate an entire week to nursery rhymes because they can expand to so many different parts of a curriculum! Mother Goose encourages, imagination, sound and phonetic repetition, and even introduces the body structure of poems to young children!

With some emphasis on words, and exaggerations, the kids were more than ready to decorate their own socks come academic center time!  If you try this lesson at home, we’d love to hear how much fun your kids had with it!

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, pre-k learning has become a critical component in setting the stage for a child’s future academic success. As parents and caregivers in Colorado Springs, finding the right pre k learning center can make all the difference in nurturing your child’s love for learning and building a strong literacy foundation. In this blog post, we’ll explore the importance of pre k learning programs, highlight some of the top prekindergarten learning centers in Colorado Springs, and discuss how these learning centers are revolutionizing early childhood education in Colorado Springs. 

Why Pre-K Learning Programs Matter 

Cognitive Development 

Pre k learning programs play a vital role in a child’s cognitive development. These programs are designed to provide young children with a structured learning environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. By engaging in age-appropriate activities and experiences, children develop essential cognitive skills such as: 

• Problem-solving 
• Critical thinking 
• Memory retention 
• Attention span 
• Language acquisition 

Research has consistently shown that children who attend high-quality pre k learning programs have better cognitive outcomes in later years. They tend to perform better academically, have higher IQs, and are more likely to graduate from high school and attend college. 

Social-Emotional Development 

In addition to cognitive development, pre k learning programs also support children’s social-emotional growth. These programs provide opportunities for children to interact with their peers, learn social skills, and develop emotional intelligence. Through play and structured activities, children learn to: 

• Share and take turns 
• Communicate effectively 
• Manage their emotions 
• Empathize with others 
• Resolve conflicts 

Developing strong social-emotional skills in early childhood is crucial for future success in school and life. Children who attend pre k learning programs are more likely to have positive relationships with peers and adults, exhibit fewer behavioral problems, and have higher self-esteem. 

Preparation for Kindergarten 

One of the primary goals of pre k learning programs is to prepare children for kindergarten and beyond. By attending a high-quality pre-kindergarten program, children gain the skills and experiences necessary to succeed in a formal school setting. They learn to: 

• Follow routines and schedules 
• Work independently and collaboratively 
• Participate in group activities 
• Communicate their needs and ideas 
• Engage in basic academic skills (e.g., counting, letter recognition) 

Children who enter kindergarten with a strong foundation in these areas are more likely to thrive academically and socially. They are better equipped to handle the challenges and expectations of a structured classroom environment. 

Top Pre-K Learning Center in Colorado Springs 

When searching for “pre k learning centers near me,” Colorado Springs parents are fortunate to have access to a wide range of exceptional options. Let’s take a closer look at the top pre k learning center in the area: 

1. Young Scholars Academy: Young Scholars Academy is an exceptional pre k learning center that offers a nurturing and engaging environment for young children. With a focus on developing a love for learning, their programs are designed to support each child’s unique needs and interests. Some key features of Young Scholars Academy include: 

• Nationally accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) 
• Family-owned and operated for over 20 years 
• Experienced and dedicated teachers 
• Creative Curriculum that is developmentally appropriate and personalized 
• Enriching environments that inspire discovery, creativity, and friendships 
• Strong emphasis on kindergarten readiness and future academic success 

Young Scholars Academy offers a range of programs for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years, including infant care, toddler classrooms, preschool, pre-kindergarten, and junior kindergarten. They also provide before and after school programs for school-age children. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for early childhood education, Young Scholars Academy is a top choice for Colorado Springs families. 

Building Literacy Skills in Pre-K 

Language-Rich Environments 

One of the key ways that pre k learning centers support literacy development is by providing language-rich environments. These environments are designed to immerse children in oral and written language throughout the day. Some examples of language-rich experiences in pre k classrooms include: 

• Storytime: Teachers read aloud to children regularly, exposing them to a variety of genres, vocabulary, and narrative structures. 
• Conversations: Children engage in meaningful conversations with teachers and peers, practicing their oral language skills and learning to express their thoughts and ideas. 
• Print-rich surroundings: Classrooms are filled with labels, signs, books, and other print materials that help children make connections between spoken and written language. 

By surrounding children with language in multiple forms, pre k learning centers lay the foundation for future reading and writing success. 

Phonological Awareness 

Another critical component of early literacy development is phonological awareness – the ability to recognize and manipulate the sounds of language. Pre k learning centers incorporate a variety of physical activities and experiences that promote phonological awareness, such as: 

• Rhyming games and songs 
• Syllable clapping and counting 
• Identifying initial and final sounds in words 
• Blending and segmenting sounds to create words 

As children develop phonological awareness skills, they are better prepared to understand the relationship between letters and sounds, which is essential for learning to read and write. 

Emergent Writing 

Pre k learning centers also support children’s emergent writing skills – the early stages of writing development that precede conventional writing. Teachers provide opportunities for children to experiment with writing in a variety of ways, such as: 

• Scribbling and drawing 
• Making letter-like shapes 
• Copying letters and words 
• Dictating stories or ideas for teachers to write down 

By exploring writing in a safe and supportive environment, children begin to understand the purpose and conventions of written language. They also develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination, which are necessary for future writing success. 

The Benefits of Pre-K Learning Centers 

Academic Success 

Research has consistently shown that attending a high-quality pre k learning program can have significant long-term benefits for children’s academic success. Children who attend pre k are more likely to: 

• Perform better on standardized tests in elementary school 
• Be placed in gifted and talented programs 
• Graduate from high school 
• Attend and complete college 

These academic benefits are particularly pronounced for children from low-income families and those who are English language learners. By providing a strong educational foundation in the early years, pre k learning centers can help close achievement gaps and promote equity in education. 

Economic Benefits 

Investing in early childhood education also yields significant economic benefits for individuals and society. Some of these benefits include: 

• Higher lifetime earnings for individuals who attend pre k 
• Reduced costs associated with remedial education, grade retention, and special education services 
• Lower rates of crime and incarceration 

• Increased tax revenue and economic productivity 

Studies have shown that every dollar invested in high-quality early childhood education can yield a return of up to $16 in economic benefits. By supporting pre k learning centers, communities can create a more prosperous and equitable future for all. 

Choosing the Right Pre-K Learning Center 

With so many pre k learning centers near you, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your child. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision: 

• Accreditation: Look for a pre-k learning center accredited by a reputable organization, such as the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Accreditation ensures that the center meets high standards for quality and safety. 
• Curriculum: Choose a pre k learning center that offers a research-based, developmentally appropriate curriculum. The curriculum should be aligned with state standards and focus on the whole child, including cognitive, social-emotional, and physical development. 
• Teacher qualifications: Ensure that the pre k learning center employs qualified, experienced teachers who are passionate about early childhood education. Teachers should have the necessary training and certifications to work with young children. 
• Family involvement: Look for a pre k learning center that values family involvement and encourages parents to be active participants in their child’s education. The center should provide regular communication and opportunities for parent-teacher conferences. 
• Learning environment: Visit the pre k learning center in person to get a sense of the learning environment. Look for a clean, safe, and nurturing space that is designed to promote exploration and learning. The classrooms should be well-equipped with age-appropriate materials and resources. 

By taking the time to research and visit different pre k learning centers, you can find the right fit for your child and set them on the path to a lifetime of learning and success. 

Conclusion 

Pre k learning centers near Colorado Springs are playing a vital role in building a strong literacy foundation for young children. By providing age-appropriate hands-on activities, experienced teachers, and a nurturing learning environment, these centers are helping children develop the skills and experiences necessary for future academic success. 

If you’re a parent or caregiver in Colorado Springs, we encourage you to explore the many exceptional pre k learning programs available in your area. By investing in early childhood education, we can create a brighter future for our children, communities, and society. Let’s work together to ensure that every child has access to the high-quality pre k learning experiences they need to thrive. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the importance of pre k learning programs? 

Pre k learning programs play a crucial role in a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. These programs provide a structured learning environment that fosters curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning. Children who attend high-quality pre k programs are more likely to succeed academically in later years. They also have better social-emotional well-being, and be better prepared for kindergarten. 

How do pre-k learning centers help build a strong literacy foundation? 

Pre k learning centers support literacy development by providing language-rich environments, promoting phonological awareness, and encouraging emergent writing skills. Language-rich environments immerse children in oral and written language through story time, conversations, and print-rich surroundings. Phonological awareness activities help children recognize and manipulate the sounds of language, while emergent writing experiences allow children to experiment with writing in various ways. 

What are the long-term benefits of attending a pre-k learning program? 

Children who attend high-quality pre k learning programs are more likely to perform better on standardized tests, be placed in gifted and talented programs, graduate from high school, and attend and complete college. Additionally, investing in early childhood education yields significant economic benefits, such as higher lifetime earnings, reduced costs associated with remedial education and crime, and increased tax revenue and economic productivity. 

What factors should parents consider when choosing a pre-k learning center? 

When choosing a pre-kindergarten learning center, parents should consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, teacher qualifications, family involvement, and the learning environment. It’s essential to look for a center that is accredited by a reputable organization, offers a research-based and developmentally appropriate curriculum, employs qualified and experienced teachers, values family involvement, and provides a clean, safe, and nurturing learning environment. 

How can investing in early childhood education benefit society? 

Investing in early childhood education can create a more prosperous and equitable future for all by promoting academic success, reducing achievement gaps, and yielding significant economic benefits. Studies have shown that every dollar invested in high-quality early childhood education can yield a return of up to $16 in economic benefits, such as increased tax revenue and economic productivity, and lower rates of crime and incarceration.