Help young children develop
problem-solving skills, and you'll boost their kindergarten readiness and
set them up for long-term success in STEM subjects. In this timely and
practical book, you'll discover how to support the problem-solving skills of
all young children by teaching them basic practices of engineering and five
types of critical thinking skills (Curiosity, Persistence, Flexibility,
Reflection, and Collaboration)— AND discover how to sharpen all these
skills as a teacher! Using a clear instructional framework and fun activities
tailored for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, you'll help children birth to
5 explore big ideas and develop new ways of thinking through engaging and challenging
learning experiences.
THE BOOK YOU NEED TO
- Support school readiness. The problem-solving framework in this book helps children work toward kindergarten Common Core State Standards, Next Generation Science Standards, and the Head Start Child Development and Early Learning Outcomes Framework.
- Demystify key engineering practices. Prepare kids for success in all STEM areas by teaching four essential engineering principles: think about it, try it, fix it, and share it.
- Boost problem-solving skills with proven activities. All the suggested activities have been piloted and tested in classrooms and incorporate teacher feedback.
- Encourage language and literacy development. Get suggestions for weaving reading into problem-solving experiences, and discover how your use of language can prompt children's thinking skills.
- Promote other skills needed for school success. With the framework and activities in this book, you'll also support development of social-emotional skills, self-regulation, and executive functioning.
PRACTICAL MATERIALS: Classroom activities that incorporate children's books,
self-reflection checklists, practical strategies and modifications, Early
Childhood UDL Planning Sheets, and blank Experience Planning Templates for
infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
(book description)
