What is Intentional Learning?
Intentional learning is when educators plan and create opportunities for childre to learn and develop in different ways. They do this by being thoughtful and purposeful in their actions and decisions. It means knowing the children's interests, abilities current goals. And guess what? You will gain more and so will the children, if you are also invested in the experience and see value in co-leading with the children.
Learning in Social Contexts
Did you know that learning doesn't just happen when you're sitting on the edge of the sandpit or on a chair? It doesn't need to even be confinded to indoors. Intentional teaching and co-learning can happen anywhere, especially when you're interacting with children. Deeping the learning in social contexts invovles educators to encourage conversations and interactions that challenge children's thinking and help them develop important skills.
The Power of Play
Playtime is not just for fun, it's also a great opportunity for learning. When childre are give given time to play without interruptions, it allows them the right to explore, discover, and learn on their own terms. However, just by joining in on their play and have purposeful conversations with the children, you help them learn even more.
Routines and Transitions
Believe it or not, even your daily routines and transitions can be learning opportunities. Use these special moments to extend thinking, encourage problem-solving, and support social and emotional development. Children begin to feel connected and develop a sense of belonging in the classroom when they predicate upcoming routines and are able to confidently navigate through them.
So, the next time you're writing up your educational program, reflect on different elements of teaching and evaluate what you want to the children to gain from the learning. This ensures that the children are authenically at the focal point of all decisions you make and this will guide in developing and fostering high learning experiences possible.