Some children may express beliefs or ask questions about being a child. The topic of children is fantastic for a group project in early childhood education. There are many unique learning opportunities.
Children can learn greater respect for themselves and their friends as capable and valued members of society.
Exploring what it means to be a child connects with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF). This topic strengthens children's identity (1) and connects them with other people (4.4) and groups (2.1).
Your children may also like these topics: babies, age, adults, and growing up.
Learning experiences
Show off your talents
Educators talk with children about the things they are good at or feel confident doing (e.g. hopping, singing, being kind). The children take turns showing off their talents to their friends. Educators explain that children are capable and important people in our society.
Ask family members about their childhood
Children ask people in their family (adults or older children) simple questions about their own childhood. Children can create a list of questions with support from their educators (e.g. Did you have toys? What did you play with? What did you look like?).
Collaborate on a mural
Using a large piece of paper or canvas, each child draws or paints a picture of themselves. The end result is a group artwork that can be displayed in your room or foyer, to show that this is a place for children.
Read books about children
Read books with relatable children as the main characters. Discuss the child's experiences in the story. Ask your children how they think the character felt and if anything like that has ever happened to them.
Community connections
Video call other children
Make contact with another childcare centre, in Australia or overseas. Ask if your children can participate in a video call with their children. This experience will promote language and technology awareness. This is an excellent opportunity to discover new cultures and ways of living.
Discussions
Rights of the child
Talk about children's rights using the simplified version of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, an international agreement on childhood. Alternatively, ask children these questions (value their answers by writing them down):
- What do children need to learn and grow?
- What is something you have done with your friends? Why was this good? How did it make you feel?
- What activities are in this town/suburb for children? How can these things be improved? What else could we have?
- What makes you feel safe and happy?
- Who will help you? What can they help with?
- What are children good at?
- When does someone stop being a child?
Events
20th November is World Children's Day. In Australia, Children's Week coincides with this day.
Resources
Kiocs.org: Videos of children in different countries