What do staff at programs that regard infants toddlers as immature preschooler consider "non educational"?
The staff at programs that regard infants, toddlers, and preschoolers as immature usually consider activities or materials that do not engage or promote development in appropriate ways as "non-educational." Here are a few examples:
1. Excessive use of screen time: Programs focused on child development often discourage excessive use of television, tablets, or smartphones for children in this age group. While some educational content can be engaging, passive and unguided screen time is generally considered non-educational.
2. Monotonous or static toys: Toys that lack interactive or stimulating features, such as simple dolls or stuffed animals without any educational components, may be categorized as non-educational. Staff generally prefer toys that encourage problem-solving, fine motor skills, sensory exploration, or stimulate creativity.
3. Lack of age-appropriate books: If a program does not provide a variety of age-appropriate books, they may be considered non-educational. Having a range of books that focus on visual stimuli, sensory touch, or introduce basic concepts like colors, shapes, or animals is seen as beneficial for child development.
4. Absence of play-based learning: Programs that disregard the importance of play-based learning may be seen as non-educational. Play is a crucial component of early childhood education, allowing children to explore, experiment, and discover the world around them. A lack of opportunities for open-ended play experiences may be considered non-educational by staff at these programs.
5. Limited social interaction: Programs that do not prioritize social interaction among children may be viewed as non-educational. Interacting with peers and adults is crucial for developing social skills, empathy, and language development. Staff typically value activities that encourage interaction, group play, and cooperative learning.
Overall, staff at programs focused on infant, toddler, and preschool education consider activities or materials to be non-educational when they fail to promote intellectual, physical, social, or emotional development in appropriate ways for children in this age range.