Programs - The Blue Group

Three and Young Four Year Olds
(5 Morning Program)
As you observe in the classroom, these notes may give you a
better understanding of the daily program.

FREE PLAY

The better part of the first hour of a Blue Group morning is devoted to Free Play.(contact us at info@thewesthillschool.org to learn about exact times and days) During this time, children are given the opportunity to socialize freely, utilizing both Blue Group rooms. In the active room, large motor skill activity is encouraged through blocks, riding toys, dress ups, and the Housekeeping Corner. All give rise to exciting imaginative play. The easel is always available for painting and drawing. In the table room, children are eager to participate in optional art activities, as well as other small motor activities, such as crayons and drawings, table top manipulatives and puzzles. There is a book area for quiet reading, and a science shelf for exploration. Social skills, including taking turns, sharing, and learning to be a good friend are encouraged throughout the day.

BIG CIRCLE

After hearing the "pick up" music, the children work cooperatively to put away the toys, and then come together as a group. At this time, the children take turns participating in calendar and weather work and share personal experiences, such as haircuts and new shoes. It is a happy time for singing, finger plays, and interactive songs.

SMALL CIRCLE, ACTIVITY AND PROJECT TIME

During Small Circle, Project, and Activity times, the class is divided into two groups. Small Circle is a time to discuss information about specific topics of study. Activity time is for working on large muscle coordination through participation in active games, and using various climbing and balancing equipment. Weather permitting, we use outside playground equipment. It is also the time for directed dramatic play. Projects are related to the current unit of study. The purpose of these projects is to encourage listening, cutting, pasting and placement skills as well as practice in following directions.

SCIENCE

Each Friday, our Science specialist works with small groups as she intrigues the children with facts and displays about our natural environment. Hands-on lessons captivate her audiences. Whenever possible, the science discussions revolve around the current unit of study. Science materials are available throughout each day to encourage discovery and learning.

RHYTHMS

Our music teacher comes on Wednesday and spends an exciting time teaching songs and musical games. The class is divided into two groups and given the unique opportunity to learn listening skills by responding, with required movement, to the piano cues.

DANCE AND CREATIVE MOVEMENT

On Thursday, our Creative Movement teacher delights the children with fun and exciting ways to use their large motor skills. The children are introduced to the principals of dance and exercise, while developing their own natural ability and imagination.

OUTSIDE PLAY

Weather permitting, the entire school interacts the last part of the morning on the playground. Each piece of equipment is carefully teacher supervised. Dismissal begins at 11:30 a.m from the playground.

OUTSIDE RESOURCES

In the Spring, we schedule field trips which relate to the units being studied at the time. Members of the community, including West Hill parents, visit and share interesting and enriching information about their careers and/or cultures.

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