Describe the general time blocks full-day programs for children ages 3 to 5 should follow.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Each day should begin with a relaxed morning period where, as the children arrive, they are placed indoors engaging in comfortable interactions and are offered either a light breakfast or a morning snack so that all children have a healthy start to their day. Once they have arrived, relaxed, and eaten, children should be encouraged to go outdoors to enjoy the fresh air, sounds, scents, and space so they can be refreshed to continue with their day. Following a period of time outdoors, children should assist with tidying up the areas where they have played and then transition to the morning Circle Time activities. Following "Circle Time," children are then ready to participate in what should be considered their crucial learning time where all staff members will be working with the children in a holistic manner by integrating play and content area skills into particular center activities. Additionally, children should be offered the opportunity to have a small snack and use the restroom. Following the play center activities, a set amount of time should be dedicated having the children and adults clean up the areas. Next, children should be brought together for a 15-minute large group activity, such as reading or acting out a story, learning a new song, or introducing and discussing a problem-solving situation. Following the large group activity, children should have lunch, a nap or rest, and then follow a schedule similar to the morning for the remainder of the day, but be provided different center materials.