Creative experiences for Children

Creative Experiences for Children 2(1+1)

Lesson 11 : Creative Environments for Children- Activity Centers

Condition and Organization of materials within the activity center

Activity centers with materials that are in good condition, sturdy, arranged and placed on open shelves, with intension that materials are valued and important enough to be well cared for. Young children work best in a predictable environment where materials are organized and available in the same place. Organizing materials can help children in developing self-help skills and self control, as well as learning to respect materials. When shelves are clearly labeled with words and few arranged objects on them at a time, taking and putting the things back in place becomes an easier task for young children.

Organization of Activity Centers in Convertible Centers

Early childhood activity centers operate in multi-purpose facilities or convertible manner. In day care centers the equipment must be packed up for storage after school or over the weekend. If materials are packed up and stored frequently, movable shelves or portable boxes are very useful. An individual activity box includes all the materials needed for a particular activity center which includes objects, pictures, reminder cards with relevant questions for the teacher, rhymes, games and songs. For example beads and blocks in sorting or matching section. A variety of equipment is required to set up activity centers.