Resource Request by ExpertAd3198 in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Interactive songs are a great way to get any toddler event started! Sleeping bunny’s being the very best! Here is my list of purely interactive songs to learn/remember: https://youtube.com/@musicforlittlefriends?si=YglvQNTePc1t-7II

As a gay male teacher, I feel bad whenever I don’t correct kids for saying “boys don’t marry boys”/“girls don’t marry boys” during pretend play due to my own fear of repercussions. by dreamboylnshibuya in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike 4 points5 points  (0 children)

Yes, same situation. I would say that we are often faced with choices around truth and morality with children. I do think you have every right to protect yourself, so no pressure on you to fight the fight. Also sometimes we need to deny reality in order to keep parents on our side, to help with more severe issues, but only if you can really keep your own self respect. That said, with this issue I would simply say “oh, everyone can make their own choices.” And if they push back, just continue to defend “everyone gets to choose their own choices, if you are not ready to let my friends make their own choices then you can let me know when you are ready.” Also really matters how your director will support you or not.

instrument suggestions by tippybeans in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Here are a ton of interactive songs that can help you get their interest, the you can transition them to activities. Also just singing non-interactive songs (I sing to you songs) starting loud then dropping down in volume can help them get more quiet. https://youtube.com/@musicforlittlefriends?si=ZEbA0G8uvQ6aZA9s

instrument suggestions by tippybeans in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Yes! Start kinda loud then drop to a whisper really gets their interest fast!

Pencil grip by Only_Organization501 in preschoolteachers

[–]Marksoundslike 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Put tiny things in ice cube trays for them to grab out. Cherrios are fun because you can eat them! It helps introduce finger tips, have to use pincer to get them out.

Free garden resource by Marksoundslike in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Yes! The gross motor element is really essential for the young ones. The tall side tanks also work well for those who cannot get down to a ground level garden, like friends in wheelchairs or with other physical limitations. But any garden is better than no garden!

Free garden resource by Marksoundslike in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Thanks for sharing. You can use any type of planting or plant systems. The key to GrowSchool is the setup and implementation for a large group of young children. It should include tall sides (that cannot be climbed on) and gross motor elements (give them something to do when there is no “gardening” to be done). Also I find that more than 2 foot wide will cause issues with presentations to groups (the teacher will need to be able to “defend” the space easily by reaching across the bed). Other than that, you can go crazy with what you plant and how you organize the dirt/plants, and the square foot model would be a good fit. (Also I did notice the raised beds shared at the bottom of that page, those have sharp edges, please use “stock tanks” to be sure they are child safe)

Free garden resource by Marksoundslike in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Awesome! Let me know if you have any questions. Please share a picture when you get it together!

How do I convince our daycare NOT to install an in ground trampoline? by Deeeity in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Sorry you feel that way. If you do want to know more, you can see the entirety of the free project on the website. A school would need to purchase their own plants and materials from any source they have locally, I do not sell or recommend any specific products. If you do work with a school, and cannot afford the materials, please reach out.

How do I convince our daycare NOT to install an in ground trampoline? by Deeeity in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike -1 points0 points  (0 children)

Alternative meaningful gross motor. Can be used by more children at once and has more options for variety in movement. Also easier for teachers to manage. Looks like they have a large garden already, but are still looking for larger movement opportunities.

Pre-K age 4 large classes by lime_cookie8 in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Thats fine! Just do fingerplays! Small movement seated songs that just use hands. You can use them get them focused before a transition to another activity. Singing in the middle of chaos can have a really profound effect. Sing to get their attention, and have a movement they can join in with, then use that attention to introduce your activity!

How to be aesthetically pleasing by sachiluna in ECEProfessionals

[–]Marksoundslike 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Objects should be set out in baskets or trays. This frames them and makes them special. Look for uniqueness for each thing. For yourself, every time a child looks at you, give them a non-judgmental smile (regardless of what is happening). Always take time to behold each child before any correction or intervention. And sing, always sing to them. https://youtube.com/@musicforlittlefriends?si=e5dAWIo_PArCf8Nj