[Anna]

Some of the creative ways you can engage with children through activities and questions would first observe them, and what interests them, sit with them and ask them provoking questions that stray away from simple “yes” or “no” answers. Maybe while you’re asking questions, do activities based on the lessons plans for the day. For example, if in the lesson plan there is a math lesson, when you sit with a child, maybe do something like counting blocks. On the other hand, you could do some “serve and return” activities, such as playing with cars and interacting/following along to what they are doing, making sure to stay connected to the child and their interest.

[Anna]

When creating a schedule keep it simple and easy for the children to understand. Along with consistent meal time, like breakfast, lunch, and dinner, if the time of the day calls for it, incorporate time for activities, play (indoor or outdoor), rest, and programing for specific age groups.

[Anna]

An environment that is safe and clean, that allows children to play, grow, and learn. To be able to experiment with activities such as blocks, table toys, music, and many other things. Also, that the floorplan on the place is ordered nicely, where it is accessible for all teachers to see all children at all times, and so when kids run around, there is less chance for them to get hurt.

[Anna]

A few good ways to approach a parent about developmental screening of their child would to first of all have good documentation of observations of the knowledge of child development, which can help share the information to the parents objectively rather than being judgmental. Before sitting down to talk to the parents, think of the parents prospective, and also make sure to validate, or keep in mind their emotions during this process, they may be more open to hear your concerns if you appeal to them first about their emotions along with some of the strengths the child has developed as well, rather than focusing on mainly the developmental screening. Also, it may not be a bad idea to not only have a list of resources on hand during this meeting, but before this meeting, you could go over key concepts with a staff member who had also observed the child. Mainly, share the collected data based on evidence collected, not personal opinion. Most of all, keep the child’s information confidential, and if need be, stress that to the parents.