Notes from: What Makes ‘Em Tick? How Preschoolers Learn and Grow

Breakout Session @ CPC 2012 Orlando by Karen Apple @ 1stthings1st.org

Preschoolers learn more by what you DO, than what you SAY.

Kindergarteners are more like preschoolers than school age kids (1st grade)… in Karen’s opinion.

Greet kids first, then their parents.

When a child shows you their “artwork” never say: “What is it?” Instead say: “Wow! Tell me about it!”

Children learn most abstract concepts in concrete relationships.

Ask specific questions of a preschooler: NOT the generic “What did you learn today?” Rather, “Who did you play with today?” or, “What was the story you heard?”

Children remember:

  • 10% hear
  • 15% see
  • 20% hear & see
  • 40% discuss
  • 80% do
  • 90% see & do

If a ball is involved, boys are onboard… if a ball is pink or sparkles, girls love it!

When the body moves, the brain engages.