In our current climate of test data obsession, the ASCD points out that "Kids simply won't achieve if we don't ensure they are healthy and safe, consider their social and emotional needs, tap into their interests, and demonstrate real-world application of the knowledge and skills we want them to acquire." This is a simple fact that early childhood educators have known for decades and that the NAEYC has supported in various position statements over the years.
Whole child education through intentional teaching supported by best practices - whether it be in a toddler group or a high school history class - looks very similar in all learning environments. Early childhood programs who gather meaningful information using a comprehensive asessment and curriculum system- such as Preschoolfirst - can actually use data to inform and guide whole child practices....and thereby improve learning outcomes.
The ASCD has committed to promoting Whole child educational practices as part of a focus on healthy school communities. PreschoolFirst has a few questions:
- Is your early childhood program a partner in the your community?
- Do you meet with the public and private elementary schools in your area to support a whole child–centered education system?
- What, if any, are the educational practices on which you agree? Are there any on which you disagree?
- Do you have a system that helps your program collect observations that prove "play" and supporting whole child development works?
To read the full ASCD blog visit In Defense of Whole Child Education!
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