Open Discussion Forum

  • 1.  Classroom size

    Posted 04-21-2019 10:38 AM
    I have been in a private preschool for 4 years. I have changed my environment all 4 years to best suit the needs of the children.  I have a very small room. I have advocated for a smaller class number but the administration feels the numbers have to remain the same.  Next year I am looking st 16 three year olds. We have a schedule as such that imposes a lot of transitions upon them. I am dreading going back but the job availability in my area is slim. Any suggestions?? 


    ------------------------------
    Chrissy Peuterbaugh
    Certified Teacher
    Private Preschool
    Alton IL
    ------------------------------


  • 2.  RE: Classroom size

    Posted 04-22-2019 07:26 AM
    What is your ratio? In a small space, less is more. Rotate items in and out, if the children are interested in a certain area keep it well stocked. Areas that the kids visit and knock things on the floor without playing, change the materials. I have did themes when working on colors, every area will display the same color, to help children identify the color. For instance, red blocks, trucks, balls, cups, saucers, etc.

    ------------------------------
    J. Malone-Barnes
    Practicum Coordinator
    Children and Families Program
    Henry Ford College
    Dearborn, MI
    ------------------------------



  • 3.  RE: Classroom size

    Posted 04-23-2019 12:05 PM
    Hi Chrissy,

    We wish you well. I think you are already considering changing your schedule, because you mention the transitions. Transitions, in and of themselves, can be stressful, when there are too many. When we do not give our children the time the need to work on what their doing, and we limit the time necessary or learning to happen in the context of their activity, when there are too many transitions. I think you will find it very helpful.

    ------------------------------
    Deborah Lewis
    Instructor/Coordinator
    Fresno City College
    Fresno CA
    ------------------------------



  • 4.  RE: Classroom size

    Posted 04-23-2019 01:00 PM
    The classroom will depend on the square footage of the room.  You need to measure to see how big is your classroom.  I'm not to sure of the measurement, but you can google to find that answer.  So depending on the square footage of the classroom, will depend on how many pre school kids should be in the classroom.  It's also part of the fire code.  Hope this helps.

    ------------------------------
    Peter Tedtaotao
    Director
    ST PHILOMENA EARLY LEARNING CENTER
    Honolulu HI
    ------------------------------



  • 5.  RE: Classroom size

    Posted 04-26-2019 01:17 AM
    Is there anyway to reduce the number of transitions? I am a family child care preschool program and I have learned the hard way that too many transitions can cause a TON of issues. I only have 6 children in classroom at a time (Military regulations), so it is a bit easier to manage, especially when I either pair them up or break them up into 3s. That way the children are able to play and work through what they have learned in large group time and have individual or small group time with me. I found that more small and individual time and less large group activities is the best way to keep their attention and they can't WAIT to come work with you. 

    I do agree with you though that a smaller class size with that age is better.

    ------------------------------
    Temesha (Ms. Tessie) Ragan
    Family Child Care IF Facilitator
    Perfect Start Learning
    Family Child Care Provider
    Edwards, CA
    ------------------------------