Have you ever wondered how to teach kindergarten procedures and growing a plant have in common? In this blog post, we’ll explore the surprising similarities and discuss the right way to teach Kindergarten procedures. Just as seeds require proper planting, nurturing, and care to grow into healthy plants, young learners need explicit instruction and guidance to develop good habits and behavior in the classroom. By laying the groundwork for routines, rules, and procedures, teachers provide the necessary structure for students to thrive and blossom academically and socially.
Model (Soil)
The first essential on how to teach Kindergarten procedures is modeling. Just like soil provides a nourishing environment for a seed, modeling shows students what the procedure should look like. By demonstrating the desired behavior or action, teachers set clear expectations for their students. For example, when introducing a procedure, such as how to add something to their work, teachers should model the process step-by-step. Without this modeling, like a seed without soil, the desired behavior won’t take root.
Visual (Sun)
In Kindergarten, visuals play a crucial role when it comes to how to teach kindergarten procedures. Similar to how sunlight fuels the growth of a plant, visuals provide the necessary illumination for students to understand and internalize procedures. After modeling, it’s essential to visually represent the procedure, describing what it looks like, sounds like, and even feels like. By engaging multiple senses, students absorb and retain the information more effectively. These visuals act as the “sun” that helps the desired behavior flourish.
Practice (Water)
Practice makes perfect! That’s why another aspect of how to teach kindergarten procedures is to make sure to practice. Once students have seen the procedure modeled and have a visual reference, it’s time to provide ample opportunities for practice. Just as water is essential for a seed to grow, practice is crucial for students to internalize and master the procedure. Teachers should create opportunities for students to practice the procedure repeatedly, ensuring they understand and can perform it independently. The more practice they receive, the more likely the behavior will take root and become second nature.
The Why (Air)
Understanding the “why” behind procedures can greatly enhance student engagement and compliance. Children often ask why things work a certain way, and providing them with explanations satisfies their curiosity. Teachers should have discussions with their students about the purpose and benefits of following procedures. It can be helpful to model the wrong way to do things and then ask students why that approach wouldn’t work. When students understand the rationale, they are more likely to adhere to the procedure. Regularly reviewing the “why” reinforces the importance of the procedure.
Wrapping it Up
Teaching Kindergarten procedures requires a deliberate and systematic approach. By incorporating modeling, visuals, practice, and understanding the “why,” teachers can lay a strong foundation for their student’s success. Thorough teaching procedures is crucial for creating a well-managed classroom where students can focus on their learning and thrive. Remember, just like seeds need the right conditions to grow, students need explicit instruction and guidance to develop good habits and behavior. So, let’s plant the seeds of success in our Kindergarten classrooms and watch them flourish!
