California State University San Marcos Child Philosophy Paper

Preliminary information:

1. Think about all we’ve discussed this semester related to curriculum planning for preschool-aged children, including:

• room arrangement and set up

• outdoor area arrangement and set up

• materials, supplies, equipment, and supplies

• learning centers or interest areas

• schedule

• routines

• rituals

• guidance

2. Think about your philosophy of early childhood education, including your beliefs about:

• theoretical influences

• curriculum model

• guidance

• role of the teacher

3. Think about the interests of many typically developing preschool aged children:

• animals

• food

• insects, bugs, and spiders

• beaches and ocean

• bubbles

• construction

• emotions and feelings

• transportation

• community helpers (including trash truck drivers)

• pets and animals

• dirt, rocks, sand, and soil

• weather

• gardening

• families

• environment and recycling

• seasons

Assignment:

Using the planning guide template you will be completing a grid of weekly planned possibilities for a group of 12 preschool-aged children, based on the preliminary information provided above.

• 1. Start with a brief summary of your philosophy.

• 2. Briefly describe the highlights of your room environment and set up.

• 3. Briefly describe the highlight of your outdoor environment and set up.

• 4. Identify two-three interests of the children from the list above.

• 5. Complete the planning guide.

• 6. Finish with a justification of choices in the planning guide.

• 7. Include your daily schedule for a 8:00-12:30 program.