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Online Learning Resources

  • 1.  Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-30-2020 04:43 PM
    I have been instructed to now offer online video learning sessions to the children (3 - 4 years) I help teach.  We are an Inquiry-Based Learning Preschool specializing in gifted learning.  I have never done online teaching before and would appreciate any useful resources, you wonderful educators have used for online learning.  These times certainly have changed and want to be sure I am offering a quality education.  My concern is not having those important connections and interaction with children which help me in how I teach.  I know it will be a work in progress.  

    For those working directly with children right now, you are appreciated.  You are on "the front line" as well as those in the healthcare industry.  Thank you for all you are doing offering familiarity for young children, during these changing and uncertain times.

    ------------------------------
    Beth Vogel
    Bellevue WA
    ------------------------------


  • 2.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-19-2020 11:12 AM
    Hi Everyone,

    Our district is moving to a distance learning model.  Is anyone already doing this?  If you are, can you let me know what's working?  If you're not, does anyone have ideas for how to do this in a developmentally appropriate and culturally sensitive way?


    ------------------------------
    Connie
    ------------------------------


  • 3.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-20-2020 10:51 AM
    Hi! I am communicating with parents via Remind101, text, phone and email.  I am also recording read alouds and posting daily in my Google classroom along with virtual field trips, educational websites, and table work that parents may print out if they have the materials.

    ------------------------------
    Talea McGinnis
    Teacher
    Westfall
    Williamsport OH
    ------------------------------



  • 4.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-20-2020 11:19 AM
    Thanks so much for the reply.  We haven't used Google Classroom for our grade level, but do have access to it.  I'll have to look into that.

    ------------------------------
    Concetta Warner
    Clinton CT
    ------------------------------



  • 5.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-21-2020 07:49 AM
    Our preschool has set up 3 weekly meetings via zoom.   The children can see and talk to each other as well as the teachers.  We will sing a song or two, read a book and talk with the children.    Also there has been some individual face time calls.  Trying to keep contact with our little friends.

    ------------------------------
    Jodie Rich
    Lyme Center NH
    ------------------------------



  • 6.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-20-2020 12:01 PM
    Hello Everyone,
    I also wanted to share with preschool teachers that Preschool Distance Learning has taught me in many ways to come up with Creative Ways in how to interact with my young students who are 3/4 Year olds within a dual age group. I have taken a few lessons from an app that was provided by the preschool called SeeSaw and there you can upload activities that are geared for PREK students as well as upper grades on your classroom IPAD. I truly did not want young children fixed onto an iPad for many hours of the day. I have posted myself Reading and extending their learning through reading comprehension skills with other hands on activities to enhance their learning. I have even taken Nature Walks in my town of Maplewood NJ and have asked the students to use their Expressive Skills to record themselves Where Am I ? What Kind Of Trees Am I Standing Next To? Everyday I have conversations about the activities they have completed On Seesaw as well as Singing Number Songs, Reciting Poems, Finger Plays & much more as we are home with the CV19 crisis.

    Sent from my iPhone


  • 7.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-21-2020 06:52 AM
    Yes! I recorded myself doing read alouds. And yesterday I recorded myself doing the "Sink or Float" science experiment. It's been so much fun doing if I'm being honest. I'll looks up more simple easy science experiments my young learners can do at home and record myself doing those as well :)

    ------------------------------
    Kaitlyn Miller
    GSRP Teacher
    Choice schools
    Detroit MI
    ------------------------------



  • 8.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-21-2020 08:29 AM
    There are lots of good suggestions for science activities/curriculum (in English and Spanish) on the WGBH Peep and the Big Wide World website. They also have Peep Family Science apps designed for home visitors for use with families that include videos that show how to do activities at home, which might prove helpful as well. Some of the children's science museums are starting to post things that can be really useful too. Really enjoyed this one about building with cardboard at home and this simple experiment about the importance of using soap when hand washing. Think it is great when children can see their teachers doing experiments and families can try them at home, sing together, etc. Love the nature walk idea and sharing about how you are both being creative with distance learning and hope others will join in.

    ------------------------------
    Bonnie Blagojevic
    Morningtown Consulting
    Orono ME
    ------------------------------



  • 9.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-22-2020 12:46 PM
    ​Hi everyone.  Our class room are doing the same things a lot of you are doing.  Sending children a video of me reading a book to them.  I also wrote to each child to let them know that we miss them and hope they are continuing to practice writing their first and last names and also continuing to learn their alphabet and numbers.  Some of our children are not "on-line", so they will be able to at least hear from us. 
    Thank you for all the positive insight.  I am sure you are all missing your kids as well.
    Be Safe...
    Sandy Greenhoe
    HeadStart/GSRP
    East Lansing, Michigan

    ------------------------------
    Sandra Greenhoe
    Teacher Assistant
    Head Start
    Lansing MI
    ------------------------------



  • 10.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-23-2020 07:49 AM
    I would caution anyone from reading a book and posting the video publically online if they do not have permission from the publisher... that's a serious copyright infringement. With so many schools closed, we are being baraged with requests and we allow it as long as the video is not posted publically (Facebook or Youtube) and the video is taken down after a few weeks. Many schools have private Facebook groups that families belong to. It's ok to post there for a week or so but not publically. My two cents. 

    Stay healthy everyone!



    ------------------------------
    Donna German
    Editor
    Arbordale Publishing, LLC
    Mt Pleasant SC
    ------------------------------



  • 11.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-21-2020 09:16 AM
    At my school we are posting a daily read aloud with a fingerplay on Seesaw.  We are creating virtual office hours and dedicating an hour to video chatting with our students in small groups via an online platform called Zoom (currently free).  As the Kindergarten teacher, I have designed e-learning activities that are partly online and partly offline in each subject area, which will take no more than an hour total.  These are mandatory for rising first graders and optional for rising Kindergarteners (I have a mixed age group).  E-learning assignments are sent out on Sunday evening and parents should upload highlighted work samples and the e-learning log to Seesaw by the following Sunday (they just have to take a picture of it and post it online).  I'm also sending home daily fun ideas to help parents keep their children engaged and learning at home.  Parents can set up e-conferences with me during the rest of my virtual office hours, which is an additional two hour block of time that I will be working in my home office.  The parents who have commented on the e-learning are excited about it and the children are excited to see their teacher online and chat with some peers.

    ------------------------------
    Mary Porter
    Lead Teacher
    Macfeat Laboratory School
    Rock Hill SC
    ------------------------------



  • 12.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-24-2020 08:58 AM
    Our teachers have been doing morning meeting/circle time on Zoom. The children love that they can see their friends and the teachers are able to continue with their lessons. They do it at the same time each day, which helps give some sort of a schedule to their day.

    ------------------------------
    Toni Brownell
    Director of Early Childhood Education Center
    Rockwern Academy
    Cincinnati OH
    ------------------------------



  • 13.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-21-2020 09:24 AM
    As people move to a distance learning model, there are considerations about what communication system might work best in your community. While there has been a conversation in the past on HELLO about different options, might be a good time to revisit as there may be new tools and/or updated capabilities. The systems have different qualities/what they do (translation support, text, free online PD, attaching photo, video, etc) and might be helpful to hear from people using a system as to how well it works and what it can do.  Also important to discuss-challenges and solutions to staying in touch with families with varying degrees of connectivity.
     
    So, there are technology aspects to navigate and then your question about what kinds of activities are appropriate and culturally sensitive. Appreciated reading about some of the various ways teachers are being creative in staying connected with children and families on some of the other recent threads.

    In an NAEYC TYC article published last fall, Developing Family Partnerships using New Communication Tools, some Maine teachers shared ways they were using Seesaw to stay connected with families. With a little imagination to adapt to the current situation, some of these ideas might prove useful. (For example, block constructions built in school and shared with home inviting parent comments would be reversed, so teachers can see/react to what children have created at home) In some cases, teachers created a video model (like the example of  showing how to do a sink or float experiment others have mentioned) to inspire hands-on activities with families and then also provided supplemental activities from the many available online, such as this virtual sink or float activity to provide additional learning options.


    ------------------------------
    Bonnie Blagojevic
    Morningtown Consulting
    Orono ME
    ------------------------------



  • 14.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-22-2020 09:29 AM
    Hola Connie
    since March 16 we moved to remote learning 
    we work with 2,3,4y 
    we are using 2 platforms seesaw and zoom 
    kids love zoom 
    we post activities and video on seesaw 
    so far has been working fine
    parents had problems signing in with seesaw 
    We are following our curriculum and adapting it to zoom and seesaw 
    I saw this coming around mid February so I have been preparing the teachers and school since then 
    it takes some time to get use to it but it really works.
    Warm regards
    Alejandra Novillo
    Director of Operations
    Juguemos a Cantar 
    Brooklyn NY

    ------------------------------
    Maria Novillo
    Juguemos a Cantar LLC
    Brooklyn NY
    ------------------------------



  • 15.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-22-2020 05:44 PM
    Hi Maria- how fortunate for your families that you put Seesaw and Zoom in place in time so your families can benefit now. I know Seesaw can be a great way to share activities and resources with families and was curious to know more about the ways your teachers are using  Zoom to stay connected. Also, someone was mentioning to me recently that there are many resources being shared for PreK children, but not as many for toddlers. Do you have favorites to pass along? Also would be interested in favorite movement/music sites if you/others have suggestions for toddlers and PreK.

    Thanks to @Karen Nemeth for the recent NAEYC blog post Tips for Video Chatting with Young Children and for starting a discussion for Creative Ideas for Playing with Grandchildren When You Can't be Together.  

    ​​​With so many at home, for those with good connectivity options, think it is great to consider how to involve family/ grandparents in reading, playing, singing and dancing.

    ------------------------------
    Bonnie Blagojevic
    Morningtown Consulting
    Orono ME
    ------------------------------



  • 16.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-25-2020 01:49 PM
    Hello,

    The teachers at our preschool are recording themselves reading and sharing on a private Youtube channel. 

    There are many wonderful resources to share online, but the one I am selecting is The big list of children's authors doing online read-alouds & activities. I hope everyone finds an author read-aloud to share your families.

    ------------------------------
    Donna Karno
    Associate Professor
    University of Maine, Farmington
    Farmington ME
    ------------------------------



  • 17.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 05-18-2020 06:14 PM
    I know this may be a little late, but I have been using Class Dojo. It's very interactive, has many helpful videos and tutorials to help teachers navigate, and is very user friendly. After 9 weeks, many of my preschoolers are able to go in on their own and navigate daily activities, and story posts. And it's free. I also been having weekly 15 minute zoom meetings with the kids where we sing songs and read stories. I also give each child and opportunity to share their thoughts, and give lots of air hugs, kiss blowing, and air high fives.

    ------------------------------
    Bobbie Chavez
    Lead Teacher/Director
    Cucamonga State Preschool
    Upland CA
    ------------------------------



  • 18.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-31-2020 08:46 AM
    Sally Haughey developer of the Wonder Based Approach is offering a new training "Teaching Young Children Virtually Boot Camp"  

    I have not taken this training (it begins March 30) but have taken other Fairy Dust Teaching trainings with Sally Haughey and think this would be just what you are looking for. 
    Https://fairydustteaching.com

    ------------------------------
    Margery Heyl
    Chicago IL
    ------------------------------



  • 19.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 03-31-2020 02:21 PM

    Hi, I have no past experience working virtually online. I am a family child care provider and Region Representative for WFCCA. I am looking at zoom to connect online with others in the field. I would also appreciate any other resources for connecting online at an economically affordable cost during this unprecedented time.

    Warmly,

    Xochitl Ortega



    ------------------------------
    Xochitl Ortega
    Director
    X's & O's Educational Child Care
    Milwaukee WI
    ------------------------------



  • 20.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-01-2020 11:02 AM
    Check out these site for Early Childhood Project Based Learning!


    They have a home based project here:  https://www.earlychildhoodpbl.com/homebase
    This is the only thing I've seen that empowers young children to be problem solvers during this time.





    Lisa Taub, LCSW
    Director

    Lisa@TheEarlyYearsSchool.com | P: 310.394.0463 | F: 310.394.0163
    302 Montana Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90403








  • 21.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-02-2020 11:38 AM
    Thank you so much for this resource, it is brilliant! I'm sharing it now with my network of informal education providers. We are from a wide variety of cultural institutions and work with underserved families in our region. This inquiry is completely in line with our mission to engage families in hands-on, self directed learning that involves creativity, problem solving and fun.

    ------------------------------
    Karen Lefkovitz
    Independent Consultant
    Philadelphia PA
    ------------------------------



  • 22.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-07-2020 02:34 PM

    Hi Beth,

    I wanted to share a wonderful Read Aloud resource offered by TCEA (Texas Computer Education Association). Digital Stories for Remote Learners can be a resource for not only your teachers, but also shared with parents.




    ------------------------------
    Donna Karno
    Associate Professor
    University of Maine, Farmington
    Farmington ME
    ------------------------------



  • 23.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-08-2020 08:17 AM
    The Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature Schools (ERAFANS) has several free webinars around the topic of nature-based ECE. You can access the recordings at www.erafans.org/free-online-learning. These are wonderful if you're looking for ways to transcend the virtual platform to support children and families at a distance - so many examples are shared, especially in Staying Connected Through Nature Play & Learning

    Like so many others, our small nonprofit is struggling amid the pandemic, but we are doing our very best to lend support to teachers and families with useful resources like these. We greatly appreciate NAEYC's forum for sharing them with you!

    ------------------------------
    Monica Wiedel-Lubinski
    Executive Director
    Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature Schools
    Glen Arm MD
    ------------------------------



  • 24.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-08-2020 10:06 AM
    Thanks for that great resource.   
    It led me to find this one!!!!!!

    https://www.storylineonline.net

    ------------------------------
    DiAnn Belluccia
    Executive Director
    Kids Campus
    Lynbrook NY
    ------------------------------



  • 25.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-08-2020 10:19 AM
    NAEYC has also published some information on this:

    "The Power of Storytelling in Early Childhood: Helping Children Process the Coronavirus Crisis"
    https://www.naeyc.org/resources/blog/power-storytelling-helping-children-process-crisis

    "Making Videos at Home: Tips for Educators"
    https://www.naeyc.org/resources/blog/making-videos-home-tips-educators

    There's also a thread where folks are sharing tips on making videos:

    https://hello.naeyc.org/communities/community-home/digestviewer/viewthread?GroupId=169&MessageKey=45347278-7209-4138-81ef-296933333ff4&CommunityKey=f51f9fd4-47c9-4bfd-aca7-23e9f31b601e&tab=digestviewer&ReturnUrl=%2fcommunities%2fcommunity-home%2fdigestviewer%3fcommunitykey%3df51f9fd4-47c9-4bfd-aca7-23e9f31b601e%26tab%3ddigestviewer

    ------------------------------
    Michael Coventry
    National Association for the Education of Young Children
    Washington DC
    ------------------------------



  • 26.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-24-2020 03:16 PM
      |   view attached

    Feel free to enjoy our list of 16 Ways to Honor Mother Nature, which was great fun for Earth Day but is also applicable for Mother's Day (or really anytime!) if you're interested.

    In Spring,



    ------------------------------
    Monica Wiedel-Lubinski
    Executive Director
    Eastern Region Association of Forest and Nature Schools
    Glen Arm MD
    ------------------------------

    Attachment(s)



  • 27.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-11-2020 09:53 AM

    I wanted to share a few things I've learned in the last few weeks: 

    THE GOOD: 

    1) The children need connection. They really benefit from seeing me every day over zoom. They love to see each other's faces and know that we are all still okay in our respective homes. 

    2) The parents are hanging in there as they can. This is very difficult for them and they benefit from connection, too. They like to see my face over zoom and enjoy sharing alongside their children. 

    3) I'm not a big fan of show-and-tell at school because it requires children to do too much waiting. But show-and-tell over zoom has been fantastic! Every day, the children are very excited to show me what they have done at home. This increases their sense of connection to me and seems to help incentivize everyone (children and parents) to enjoy learning activities together.  

    4) Every day, right after our daily zoom show-and-tell, I post a new video of me reading a book, singing a song, or doing an art project. Sometimes this video inspires work from the children. Sometimes it doesn't. I make sure the parents understand that none of the videos are assignments and that they can follow their children's interests at home.  

    5) I have asked parents to text me photos of children's projects and I post them to a website so that all the other children can see them. The kids seem to love proudly displaying online what they have done at home. I encourage them to copy each other during our zoom calls. For example, one day one boy made a marble run from the recycling.  A few days later, another boy did.  Both boys shared their marble runs over the zoom call and one of them shared a photo for the website.  This seems to be working well. 

    6) I work in a Montessori school and i was afraid parents would be too stressed about continuing with academics. So, I began by posting a video telling all of them that children don't need to learn to read before Kindergarten and that children learn through play. I also posted a video about the importance of "process over product" in other projects. This seemed to help parents feel a little better. 

    7) I created a free course to help parents teach their children to read at home if they felt inclined to do so because I understand that in my community, a huge importance is placed on early reading skills.  I wanted to make sure I gave them access to something better than worksheets. 

    THE DIFFICULT: 

    This is hard for parents. They don't have all the skills they need and many are trying to work full time from home, too. Some of them reach out to me feeling guilty because they aren't perfect. I think I am going to start holding a parent's pow-wow over zoom in the evening one day a week so they can share their struggles and offer each other support. I will be there to help them find solutions. 

    I have also decided to create an online parenting course that begins with strategies parents can use now and then, over time, progresses into theory and how they can apply theory. 

    This is where I am today.

    What have you learned? What has worked for you? What hasn't worked for you? 



    ------------------------------
    Anne Janai

    Lead Teacher
    Global Montessori School

    Specialist, Child Abuse Response and Prevention
    School of Teachers

    N Chelmsford MA
    ------------------------------


  • 28.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-12-2020 01:45 AM
    Your work and insights are great resources, so I thank you. My agency has begun offering Circle Times for each classroom twice a day via Zoom. Some are slowly getting acclimated to the tech challenges and the challenge of making it be a welcoming, educational space but also a very warm, soft place to land. I am a coordinator, but I started making videos a couple of weeks ago. I'll continue them now that teachers are also doing them. Theirs are live. But I think the small things become more important in the screen version of social interactions. A smile or lack thereof becomes very significant. A two minute wait to "see who else joins in" can feel excruciating. So hopefully we can all get better and better by learning from the best of each other.
    https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLJQBne2ZFl0QpiYRkIuyw28sc3pLXKPdO

    ------------------------------
    Mars April Caulton
    Education Coordinator,
    Mary Crane Centers
    Chicago IL
    ------------------------------



  • 29.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-12-2020 01:54 AM
    We are also sharing the ReadyRosie.com site (from Teaching Strategies) with families. Their activities are also on HealthyAtHome.org. They are designed for families to do while at home together during the Covid crisis.

    ------------------------------
    Mars April Caulton
    Education Coordinator,
    Mary Crane Centers
    Chicago IL
    ------------------------------



  • 30.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-13-2020 07:43 AM
    Hi Mars!
    Super thrilled time see your post on this forum!  I'll be sending along a ppt. that can be posted on Zoom or Facebook group page.  I'll have a video of me leading a color hike using crayons, matching up colors I can find and families can, too, right in their neighborhoods.  Watch for that!
    Marilyn
    mbrink@marycrane.org

    ------------------------------
    Marilyn Brink
    Program Director Assistant
    Mary Crane Center
    ------------------------------



  • 31.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-13-2020 08:05 AM

    And thank you Mars. I just looked at the Ready Rosie website. I'm going to send my families there. 

    Many thanks! 



    ------------------------------
    Anne Janai

    Leas Teacher
    Global Montessori School

    Specialist, Child Abuse Response and Prevention
    School of Teachers
    N Chelmsford MA
    ------------------------------



  • 32.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-12-2020 10:10 AM
    That's fantastic. I work for Emergency Child Care Center. We have low numbers so for those parents worried we sent home small packet but also list of activities to do at home, stories that are on line, anything to reassure them.

    ------------------------------
    Cecelia Donovan
    Red Bank NJ
    ------------------------------



  • 33.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-12-2020 10:42 AM
    Very informative 
    thank you

    ------------------------------
    Naila Nazeer
    Pre k teacher
    MTI school of knowledge
    Indianapolis IN
    ------------------------------



  • 34.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-12-2020 11:01 AM
    I love this. Thanks for articulating the important things we should be doing. Unfortunately, our district just banned using Zoom, so I'm going to try to learn Google meets for the same purpose. I receive so much emotional support from this forum and I want to thank everyone for all your input that helps me be a better teacher.

    ------------------------------
    Katy Forcillo
    Young Fives Teacher
    Grosse Pointe Public Schools.
    Grosse Pointe, MI
    ------------------------------



  • 35.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-12-2020 12:32 PM
    How many children do you serve. I am overwhelmed by the the thought of this. I know they need contact but I have 50 kids. How do you get them all signed up for zoom. Direction please. Jill

    ------------------------------
    Jill Mueller
    Immanuel Lutheran School
    Alliance NE
    ------------------------------



  • 36.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-13-2020 01:20 AM
    Hi Jill. Every program has its own goals and values and funding requirements of course, but one of the main things is that you are offering continued connection, social interactions and continued learning. You are offering a New Normal, temporarily, that can have its own routine and focus. You look at what your families are most able to do, and start there. You could offer just Small Group Time. Or Book Time. Maybe Large Groups or even Lunch Time, just look at their schedules and give the offer. Build it, and they will come...

    ------------------------------
    Mars April Caulton
    Education Coordinator,
    Mary Crane Centers
    Chicago IL
    ------------------------------



  • 37.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-13-2020 06:41 AM

    I would recommend splitting 50 children up into 4 Zoom sessions, with about 12 to 13 children per session. 

    If all sessions are about giving every child about 2 minutes to share something they're doing at home, you can count on being done with each session in about 25 minutes. Not every child will show up every day and not every child will want to share every day. 

    Zoom has gotten bad publicity, but if you take advantage of their safety features, it works. All you do is go to their website and set up a free account. Under a free account you can have as many meetings as you want as long as the meetings doing go over 40 minutes each. For security, take advantage of requiring passwords and requiring you, the admin, to admit people individually from a waiting room. 

    On Zoom, you schedule a recurring meeting for each group of children. Zoom gives you a "meeting number" for each meeting. You select a password. Then you give each family the time of the meeting, the meeting number and the password. At the scheduled time, the families go to the Zoom website and put in the meeting number and password.

    I run my meetings like this (it takes almost zero prep time):

    1) Allow everyone to come in unmuted so the can hear each other as they say hi.

    2) Mute everyone  

    3) Sing our good morning song. The children sing along with me in their own homes, but we have to do it with everyone muted because not everyone is hearing the audio at the same time so it's impossible to sing together  

    4) I invite the children to unmute themselves and share something they did or made at home. Sometimes they share an art project. Sometimes they share a toy they love. Sometimes they show me how they completed a worksheet their parents printed for them.


    I respond positively no matter what they show me. "Wow, you really used a lot of blue," or, "You are really good at doing tricky things."

    In many respects, my job is about offering positive energy and support more than anything.


    5) I repeat that no one is required to share and anyone can share. In general, the parents are there and t he parents take care of unmuting their children one at a time. Now that I've been doing this for a few weeks, I'm getting better at responding to raised hands and unmuting children when it's their turn to talk. 


    6) After everyone has had a turn who wants a turn, I unmute everyone again so they can all say goodbye to each other. I sing a goodbye song as they drop off the call. 




    More recently, I have been writing the letters of the initial sounds of the projects the children choose to show on paper during the call and then holding the letters up for the children to see. So, for example, if a child brings a marble run made from the recycling, I write an "m" and hold it up for the children to see.

    I am doing this for the parents as much as the children because I know my parents are feeling stressed about academics and guilty when they don't do enough. So I am trying to find a child-directed way to get in the academics the parents feel are important. 


    You can do this! 


    The families seem to love the consistency and the support. The world is full of quality children's programming and educational materials that can be consumed on screens. I don't think you need to feel like you must suddenly become a show producer.  Circle time on zoom is kind of like being a show host. And it's going to be hard to compete with professional children's programming. 


    Families are really lacking in personal connection and attention, however. This child-centered and interaction-based format has seemed to help mitigate that problem in a small way.





    ------------------------------
    Anne Janai
    Specialist, Child Abuse Response and Prevention
    School of Teachers
    N Chelmsford MA
    ------------------------------



  • 38.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-13-2020 09:59 AM
    Jill, 
    The honest answer is you don't. I teach 2 classes and since we went to full day 3K and 4K my numbers went from 47 to 28. I have been holding Zoom sessions once per week for each of my 2 classes. I email the families the code/password and time. Those who can, join in. I made a screencastify video to show parents how to long in. I have been trying to vary the days/times as many of my families still have parents that are working. The most I've had was 11 of 13 from my 3K class. My Zoom meetings are strictly "connection times". I do all my "teaching" via videos I link to our Seesaw account. Then parents can access those whenever they choose. 
    We have been asking the parents for feedback via Google Forms. Some of the feedback I've gotten is for possibly more Zoom opportunities and possibly some one on one opportunities. It's hard for some of my 3K kiddos to understand the new "computer" teacher and friends format. They are also overwhelmed when there are more than 5 kids via Zoom. 
    If you have any questions, please email me, I'd be happy to help further!!!!!

    ------------------------------
    Heather Finnegan
    Preschool Teacher
    Our Redeemer Lutheran Church with School
    Delavan WI
    ------------------------------



  • 39.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-14-2020 03:44 PM
    Wow, @Anne Janai,

    I am so impressed with your insights. When I saw the subject line, I was a little worried. I am super supportive of programs and teachers using online meeting software to connect with children, but the term "distance early education"  lea​​ves me cold. I imagined the post would be more about "teaching" rather than facilitation and connections with children, but I see I am wrong. You are staying true to your philosophy and using online tools to support and connect with children (and families) with developmentally appropriate practices. As someone who leans toward Reggio-inspired and emergent philosophies, the idea of "academics" applied online makes me think about rote teaching or drill and kill. I see that's not the case for you and your tips are inspiring.

    I'd like to offer another resource for everyone who is interested in offering online connections with children: My friend, esteemed colleague, and NAEYC author, @Jacky Howell is presenting a free webinar, Facilitating Meaningful Online Experiences With Young Children: Unexpected Challenges and Joyful Opportunities in Action on April ​29, 2020. The webinar will be focused on helping teachers understand the difference between offering activities online is different than offering meaningful experiences . She will share some examples from the experiences of the teachers and administrators with whom she works. The webinar is almost full, but it will be recorded.

    To Anne Janai and all of the educators who are valiantly continuing their relationships with children online during this time, kudos for your persistence and passion. Go forth! And stay safe!
    Warmly,
    Fran

    ------------------------------
    Fran Simon, M.Ed.
    Engagement Strategies, LLC
    Early Childhood Investigations Webinars
    Early Childhood Investigations Consultants Directory
    Washington, DC Metro
    ------------------------------



  • 40.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-14-2020 09:00 PM

    As an update, I just hosted a parents' support meeting over zoom. I chose an 8pm start time in hopes most parents would be free of their children. 

    It was a very good experience. The parents are tired and seemed grateful for the chance to talk to each other and to receive support from  someone they trust to give them valuable insight into their children. 

    In fact, it was so good that I finally upgraded my zoom account so that the parents won't be limited to 40 minutes next week. I'm going to hold the meeting every Tuesday for whomever chooses to come.  



    ------------------------------
    Anne Janai
    Specialist, Child Abuse Response and Prevention
    School of Teachers
    N Chelmsford MA
    ------------------------------



  • 41.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-16-2020 12:32 PM
    Hi Anne,
    I love the idea of hosting a parent support meeting.  It sounds like it was successful.  What did you talk about?  Did you have topics prepared, or was it time for parents to share?  Can you share a little more about the meeting?
    Thanks,
    Kim Vandergrift
    Preschool Director

    ------------------------------
    Kimberly Vandergrift
    San Diego CA
    ------------------------------



  • 42.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-16-2020 01:45 PM

    I am taking the approach that the best use of time when we are together is emotional support and that I can give them parenting guidance through making video recordings of me talking and posting them on our class website or Teachable.  


    So.... the parents' support group was just that: it was a time for parents to gather and talk together about their realities and the difficulties they're facing every day. 


    They vented, teared up a bit, and offered each other support and suggestions. It was very good.


    I also prepared a few practical ideas I thought might help them:

    1) using sand timers to make time more concrete for their children when children have to wait while they're on work calls

    2) putting excess toys in the attic so the children can more independently manage their environments

    3) focusing on the children's emotional needs rather than academic needs

    4) taking care of themselves as parents emotionally (self-care) as a top priority


    But I slid all my prepared thoughts into the supportive conversation the parents were having rather than taking a teaching approach. 

    I am in the midst of preparing an 8-part parenting course interested parents can watch on their own time. I plan to do most of my teaching in that format.  I very much feel like the time spent together should be about creating connection and learning through sharing experiences.... with added insight from me as is appropriate.

    I suppose all of that is a very Montessori, psychology, and developmental psychology approach. That's the framework for my thoughts, anyway: allow people to learn in their own timeframe, prepare environments conducive to supporting that learning, etc. 



    ------------------------------
    Anne Janai

    Lead Teacher
    Global Montessori School

    Specialist, Child Abuse Response and Prevention
    School of Teachers

    N Chelmsford MA
    ------------------------------



  • 43.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-15-2020 10:41 AM
    Thanks Fran.  
    I notice that the webinar is full.  Is she likely to offer it again?

    ------------------------------
    [Meg] [Thomas]
    [Early childhood consultant
    Co-facilitator for Diversity and Equity Interest Forum
    [St Paul ] [MN]
    ------------------------------



  • 44.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-15-2020 11:15 AM
    I noticed the webinar was full too but if you reply to the email provided you'll be sent access to the webinar recording a few days after it runs.

    ------------------------------
    Wendy Lorch
    Early Learning Specialist
    Science World
    Vancouver BC
    ------------------------------



  • 45.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-15-2020 12:19 PM
    Hi all,

    Thanks for your interest in the webinar by Jacky Howell. Yes, unfortunately the live webinar is full. , BUT, it will be recorded! The recording will be available within 4 to 24 hours after the live webinar is over. You can find out when the recording is ready by following the blog or going to the recordings page on the website

    Stay safe!

    Fran



    ------------------------------
    Fran Simon, M.Ed.
    Engagement Strategies, LLC
    Early Childhood Investigations Webinars
    Early Childhood Investigations Consultants Directory
    Washington, DC Metro
    ------------------------------



  • 46.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-19-2020 09:02 PM

    Hi everyone,

    I also have been reflecting on what "distance learning" can and should look like in early childhood education.  I teach two and three year olds in a preschool setting, now closed.  I've written a blog post on this.

    Amid our efforts at new ways to share information and to connect with families, it is so important to keep in mind our priorities as early childhood educators, based on what we know about how children learn and grow. My personal mantra for this has become: Connection, not instruction. 

    In this time of early childhood program closures, while we can offer activity ideas to parents, the most important thing we can do for children and families is maintain our personal relationships and connections with children. We know that we are important adults to the young children we serve. Reaching out to families to maintain that connection in new ways is valuable.

    -Stephanie



    ------------------------------
    Stephanie Schaefer
    Program Coordinator
    MDAEYC
    Silver Spring MD
    ------------------------------



  • 47.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-20-2020 12:31 AM
    I love this, and to go further...  Connection IS Instruction.

    Teach that social-emotional skills make us stronger and more community-minded. When times are tough, strong communities of any size are our greatest resource.

    ------------------------------
    Mars April Caulton
    Education Coordinator,
    Mary Crane Centers
    Chicago IL
    ------------------------------


  • 48.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-25-2020 10:51 AM
    I love all the successful strategies and efforts posted here!  I would love to help share. There are so many innovative and creative strategies being developed by teachers. I've noticed how we have evolved even in this short time. There are many ways to connect! Here are some resources we have been developing as faculty, students, alumni, and community. Please email me if you would like your webinars and resources included. jmartyn@brandman.edu

    Facebook Group
    Supporting Young Children and Families Virtually - We started a group for anyone working to stay connecting virtually. Members post webinars, resources, opportunities, and share strategies. Anyone can join. New resources and ideas posted daily.

    Resource Page
    COVID-19 - Resources for Connecting with Young Children and Families at Home - Here we are keeping track of resources as we find them. It is organized through a Table of Contents

    Recorded Webinars
    This was our first webinar. It was like an emergency triage situation. Just trying to get started and find our way! 
    These webinars were sold out - here are the recordings.

    I am working round the clock to support teachers and professionals in supporting young children and families virtually. If you would like to share resources or have questions, please contact me! 
    Julianne Zvalo-Martyn jmartyn@brandman.edu  
    Facebook: Julianne Zvalo Martyn
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliannezvalomartyn/

    ------------------------------
    Julianne Zvalo-Martyn
    Faculty
    Brandman University
    Sonora CA
    ------------------------------



  • 49.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 04-25-2020 10:38 AM
    These are all such great resources being shared here!  I am going to add them to my resource page and new Facebook group!  Here are some resources we have been developing as faculty, students, alumni, and community. Please email me if you would like your webinars and resources included. jmartyn@brandman.edu

    Facebook Group
    Supporting Young Children and Families Virtually - We started a group for anyone working to stay connecting virtually. Members post webinars, resources, opportunities, and share strategies. Anyone can join. 

    Resource Page
    COVID-19 - Resources for Connecting with Young Children and Families at Home - Here we are keeping track of resources as we find them. It is organized through a Table of Contents

    Recorded Webinars
    These webinars were sold out - here are the recordings.  

    If you have resources or questions, please contact me! 
    Julianne Zvalo-Martyn jmartyn@brandman.edu  
    Facebook: Julianne Zvalo Martyn
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliannezvalomartyn/

    ------------------------------
    Julianne Zvalo-Martyn
    Faculty
    Brandman University
    Sonora CA
    ------------------------------



  • 50.  RE: Online Learning Resources

    Posted 07-29-2020 01:48 AM
    Fairy Dust Teaching has a short course Teaching Young Children Virtually Bootcamp: https://go.fairydustteaching.com/teachingvirtually/ .
    The government of Scotland (Yay Scotland!) Is providing free guided weekly provocations for learning with nature in it's virtual nature school:  https://virtualnatureschool.org/ .

    ------------------------------
    Barbara Gallios
    PreK Teacher
    Presidio Early Education School
    San Francisco CA
    ------------------------------