Curriculum
The Creative Curriculum® for Preschool is a comprehensive, scientifically-based curriculum, linked to an assessment system that addresses teachers' need to know what to teach and why, and how children learn best. It specifies the literacy, math, science, social studies, arts, and technology content to be taught, based on published standards. It relates directly to the subject area curricula used in elementary schools, so children's learning in preschool forms the basis of all of the learning that will follow. Its distinguishing features are a framework for decision making and a focus on interest areas. The Creative Curriculum® for Preschool is inclusive of all children—those developing typically, children with disabilities, and English language learners (Dodge, 2002)..
Sometimes programs call “Choice Time” free play, free choice, play time, work time, center time… Creative Curriculum refers to it as Choice Time. Each student chooses an interest area to work in and will move around the room as they choose. Typically, Choice Time lasts 1 hour uninterrupted and does not include clean up time. The children can choose from 8 interest areas; Art Center, Dramatic Play Area, Block Center, Music Center, Library, Fine motor Center, Science Center, Sand & Water Area. The teacher’s role is to observe, assist children in accomplishing their play goals, and look for opportunities for expanding children's activities and thinking. Learn more about each center below and what you can do at home
