3s - 5s

Preschoolers: group learners

The age at which children become group learners will, to some extent, be determined by their experience of inter-relating with their peer group – either with brothers and sisters, at a child-minder, or at nursery or playgroup. They will gradually transition from learning from adults and by self-discovery of their tangible surroundings to also observing, listening to and interacting with other young children. Children in this age group are still very active learners but, as their vocabulary increases, you need to build in plenty of time for questions, answers and conversation.

As children spend more time in peer group settings, they learn to accept new authority figures and organized activity and you can start to introduce a timetable of teaching within your session. However it is important to remember that becoming a group learner, sharing and being directed from one activity to the next, is at the cutting edge of a preschoolers social and emotional development and there will inevitably be times when they can’t cope. You need sufficient helpers to accommodate those children who need some one-to-one attention during the session, possibly away from the rest of the group. It is also important to build in some time when free play is an option or when children can select from different types of activity.

As you plan your session don’t overlook the importance of connecting the child’s own experiences to the story or learning point. Play a game or ask questions that encourage them to share what they know about a topic. Allow them plenty of time to think of an answer and reword questions if necessary. Help them to listen to the ideas of others in the group and share simple, relevant examples from your own experience.

As dexterity improves, the opportunity to explore materials, glue, paint, colour mixing, water, sand and musical instruments all prove a delight to young children. Don’t plan craft activities where you have to do almost all the work in advance – keep it simple and let the children exercise their growing independence by choosing the materials and colours they use.

Practical ideas for under 5s

Extract from Children’s Ministry Guide to Working with Under 5s by Sue Price