A student in the international baccalaureate at TESSA working at a table

What Is the IB Primary Years Programme?

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If you’re exploring educational options for your child, you’ve likely heard of the international baccalaureate. What Is the IB Primary Years Programme? Rooted in the belief that education should go beyond the confines of traditional classroom learning, an IB education aims to nurture well-rounded leaders equipped with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to thrive in an interconnected world. Today, we’ll explore the philosophy at the heart of the IB Primary Years Programme, its benefits, and why you should choose the program at Tessa International School.

What Is the IB Primary Years Programme?

What does the international baccalaureate mean? The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an internationally recognized educational program that provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to learning. Specifically, the IB Primary Years Programme is a transdisciplinary, inquiry-based, and learner-centered educational framework. The curriculum is meant to be engaging, significant, challenging, and tailored to suit the individual learning levels and developmental needs of students.

A student in the international baccalaureate program waving two flags

The international baccalaureate program at Tessa is an intellectually enriching environment.

With a focus on international-mindedness, the IB organization encourages students to appreciate different cultures, follow their natural curiosity, and develop a sense of social responsibility – all values we cherish at Tessa International School.

The IB Primary Years Programme offers a challenging and rigorous curriculum based on constructivist and social-constructivist learning theories. Under the constructivism learning theory,  students construct a knowledge of themselves and their community. The PYP curriculum emphasizes collaborative inquiry, agency, voice, and the student’s involvement in their learning. Students are encouraged to engage their sense of personal agency and self-efficacy to take positive action within the school environment and throughout their lives.

Graduates of the IB Primary Years Programme are poised to move on to the next level of their IB education. Ultimately, they will lead fulfilling lives and positively contribute to the global community. Now that you know the initial question: what is the IB primary years programme? It’s time to explore the benefits waiting in store.

Benefits of the IB Diploma Program

So, what benefits can you expect for your child? Here at Tessa, we understand the advantages of introducing children to IB teachings early on. Academic advantages include:

  • Global Recognition: The international baccalaureate program is recognized and respected worldwide, opening doors to higher education institutions and career opportunities globally. Universities often value IB graduates for their well-rounded skill set and commitment to community service.
  • Critical Thinking Skills: The program’s emphasis on agency, self-directed learning, collective inquiry, and curiosity equips students with skills beyond memorization. These skills are essential for success in any educational endeavor and the professional world.
  • Producing Well-Rounded, Confident  Leaders: By incorporating agency, student-centered learning, IB PYP students develop a strong self-concept and awareness of their community. As a result, they become academically capable, socially responsible, culturally aware, and ready to lead.
A student in the international baccalaureate program working with a teacher at a desk

The international baccalaureate program at Tessa offers students a solid foundation for success.

Why Choose the IB Primary Years Programme at Tessa?

At Tessa International School, we are committed to providing an exceptional IB education through our accredited Primary Years Programme. Our dedicated and highly qualified faculty are passionate about fostering a love of learning and guiding students through the intellectual challenges of this rigorous program. Their expertise ensures that students receive the support they need to excel in their studies.

Many opportunities for our students to participate in skill-based extracurricular activities allow them to fulfill the requirements of the curriculum while exploring their passions and interests. The IB Diploma Program at Tessa International School empowers young leaders by fostering critical thinking, global awareness, and social responsibility. The earlier students are introduced to these benefits, the better. Start exploring a bright educational future for your child now!

FAQs

Q: What does the international baccalaureate mean? 

A: The International Baccalaureate (IB) is an internationally recognized educational program that provides a comprehensive and holistic approach to learning.

Q: What does having an IB diploma do?

A: The international baccalaureate offers students a broader range of benefits and opportunities, such as Global Recognition and various skills.

 

Are you ready to explore Hoboken private schools?

Contact Tessa International School to learn more!

A class of primary students at Tessa International School holding up a poster of the earth written in Spanish.

4 Benefits of an International Education: A World of Opportunity

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In an increasingly interconnected world, providing your child with an international education is a vital investment in their future. Beyond the traditional classroom setting, international education offers many advantages beyond academic achievement. At Tessa International School, our students benefit from four key aspects of international schooling that contribute to the holistic development of young minds. They carry these benefits well into their adulthood. Keep reading to discover them!

1. Cultural Competence Is One of the Benefits of International Education

What are the most important benefits of having international students in a school? One of the most significant advantages of an international education is the cultivation of cultural competence. Exposing young children to diverse cultures from an early age fosters an understanding and appreciation for global perspectives.

Through interaction with peers from various backgrounds, children learn to navigate and embrace differences, developing a sense of open-mindedness and empathy. This cultural competence becomes a lifelong asset, preparing them to thrive in an interconnected world where collaboration and understanding across borders are essential.

2. Students at Tessa Benefit From Improved Language Proficiency 

An international education involves exposure to multiple languages. Little minds are like sponges, absorbing linguistic nuances with ease. At Tessa, we take advantage of this optimal window of opportunity by providing a multilingual environment where our students soak up Spanish, French, and Mandarin lessons.

A class of Tessa International School primary students presenting a concert on multiculturalism.

Multilingualism is a benefit of international school that improves development.

Multilingualism enhances cognitive abilities and provides a solid foundation for future language acquisition. Proficiency in multiple languages facilitates effective communication and opens up opportunities in an increasingly globalized job market. Moreover, it fosters a deep appreciation for language as a tool for connecting with others and understanding different cultures. Multilingualism is one of the most unifying benefits of international education.

3. Students Develop a Global Perspective and Strong Critical Thinking Skills

International education fosters a global perspective, encouraging little ones to think beyond geographical boundaries. Exposure to diverse curricula (we offer international baccalaureate and kindergarten programs accredited by the French Ministry of Education) and teaching methods challenges children to think critically, analyze situations from multiple angles, and develop problem-solving skills.

This broader worldview is a unique benefit of international education that equips children to navigate the complexities of our interconnected world. These critical thinking skills are invaluable, empowering young learners to approach challenges with creativity and adaptability, which are essential for success in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Two young Tessa International school students in class raising their hands.

Students at our international school develop cognitive solid and learning abilities.

4. Network Building and Future Opportunities

The friendships and connections formed during an international education can last a lifetime and extend across the globe. Building a network of friends from different countries provides a unique support system and rich cultural insights. As our friends at Tessa grow into adults, these global connections can open doors to exciting opportunities in various fields. Navigating diverse social and professional environments becomes a distinct advantage, setting the stage for a bright future.

Why is international school important for students? In an increasingly interconnected world, providing your child with an international education is a smart investment in their future. What is the impact of international education? This educational approach equips students with the necessary tools by fostering cultural competence, language proficiency, global perspective, and network building. As we look ahead, providing our children with an international education is a commitment to preparing our little ones for the challenges and opportunities of a world without borders.

Are you ready to enroll your child in our international school?

Contact Tessa to learn more!

Family Home Learning Tips: Online Educational Resources for Early Childhood Learning

Family Home Learning Tips: Online Educational Resources for Early Childhood Learning

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While everyone is adapting to the current social distancing norm for health and safety, many parents are struggling with how to keep their families occupied and focused on learning while simultaneously juggling adult responsibilities. To say it’s been challenging would be an understatement, but as parents, we are resilient and will find a way to make it work because, well, that’s our job as parents.

If you feel like you’re ready to pull out your hair if you have to juggle being the parent, the teacher (seriously, how do they do it?), and an employee/employer all at the same time for one more day, rest assured, you’re not alone. Parents across the globe are facing the same dynamics right now, and our communities are stepping up to lend a hand everywhere. To help, we’ve compiled a list of some highly educational fun and free activities being offered to families right now that can be done in the comforts of home.

The Indianapolis Children’s Museum

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive online learning experience geared toward children, check out the “Museum at Home” feature of the Indianapolis Children’s Museum website. While being closed due to the COVID-19 social distancing phase, the museum is offering free educational sessions that include exhibit tours, story time, science experiments, sports coaching for physical activity and new daily behind-the-scenes sessions are added as well.

Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

For some educational animal fun while staying indoors, check out the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s “Home Safari” feature. Every day at 3:00 p.m., the zoo shares a new live video feed of a different animal in their facilities. The videos feature various care takers who speak with online guests, answer questions about the animals, and share insight into how each animal lives. Previous videos are available to view online any time as well.

COSI Connects: Digital Doorway

The Center of Science and Industry (COSI) is offering a “Digital Doorway” program for children which features several online activities, videos, and virtual tours of their facilities. There are informative video clips on topics such as the COVID-19 virus as well as various activities like making chocolate crystals and other at-home science experiments. Children can also take a virtual tour of their dinosaur exhibit and learn about excavation and paleontology studies.

Cosmic Kids Yoga

If you’re dealing with limited space or trying to avoid play dates and the park, but still want to get in some physical activity for your littles, try checking out some online yoga classes geared towards children. Cosmic Yoga is offering a free 2-week trial for new families looking to add a bit of healthy activity to their child’s home quarantine routine.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Met Kids Site

The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Met Kids site is uniquely tailored to the interests and mindsets of young children. This site is free to the public and features a map that allows them to explore the museum on their own as well as a “time machine” that can search by various eras for further educational resources.

Art for Kids Hub

If you’re looking for some free online arts and crafts tutorials for kids, check out Art for Kids Hub. This site offers countless videos that teach children different techniques for drawing, painting, and even some sculpting and origami tricks as well.

Learning French is fun with TessaPrep!

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Tessa International School’ offers Tessaprep After School French on Wednesdays and Fridays. TessaPrep classes include Spanish, French and Mandarin immersion classes offered by Tessa’s own team. They take place for 1.5 hours twice a week which we believe is the exposure necessary to give students a meaningful foundation in the language.

Here is what our After School Teacher, Ms. Aline, has to say about a recent lesson. 

At the after-school French program, we started our most recent lesson with a free-inquiry activity on the tables. Students chose from puzzles, drawings, geometry, and arts. Then, we had Circle Time about the lesson of the week. We had already studied the french alphabet, and now we are learning about fruits and vegetables. We are making sure that all the children are engaged in the lesson by making them participate by introducing themselves, describing the weather, counting, learning the names of colors, and also talking about their feelings. For each theme, a game is used to facilitate the learning process of the children.  Then, a logical thinking activity or art activity is proposed to the children of the program. We end the lessons with some French songs to keep them engaged.

Tessaprep is a fun way to learn French!

The Best Historical Sites to Show Children in Hoboken

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by Tori Galatro

Hoboken has a rich history. It contains stories about Lenni Lenape Native Americans, Dutch settlers, baseball, land and water transportation, immigration, diversity, and booms and busts of growth and development. There’s something that every age group will find interesting, including children. The City of Hoboken has put a strong emphasis on historical preservation, and a lot of resources are devoted to keeping these treasures intact and accessible to the public. Families have a lot to discover in Hoboken.

The Hoboken Historical Museum

The Hoboken Historical Museum is a great first stop on a historical tour of Hoboken. The museum has a strong emphasis on their children and family guests, featuring storytime, childrens’ nights at the museum, family fun days, holiday concerts, and summer and day camps. The museum is open six days a week and totally free for children. There are rotating exhibits as well as permanent ones, featuring everything from old photographs, to artifacts, to local art.

The Fire Department Museum

The Fire Department Museum is also owned by the Hoboken Historical Museum, and is also free for children. Open Saturday and Sundays from noon to five, children love looking at the old fire trucks and getting a chance to meet some of the firefighter veterans and their dogs. There’s a historical shiny red Ahrens Fox fire engine that children can sit in and ring a big brass bell. The Museum caters to young visitors, and offers storytime and other family-friendly activities.

The Historic Walking Tour

The nice thing about Hoboken history is that so much of it can be explored on foot, simply walking from place to place. This is ideal for children to let out some energy and explore whatever strikes them. You don’t need to worry about your children being noisy and running around when everything is outside!

A guide is available to The Historic Walking Tour on the Hoboken Historical Museum website, and you can adapt your own tour according to what you think your children will find most fun. The tour includes buildings, parks, and monuments.

Children will most likely find the visually stunning sites to be most interesting. This includes an old firehouse, steeples, buildings that look like castles, large brass monuments of historical figures, cathedrals, and the train station terminal. Elysian Park is a stop on the tour, where the first recorded baseball game was played. Daring children will want to peer into Sybil’s Cave, where a body was once found in the 1800s, and which inspired an Edgar Allen Poe story. But don’t fear. The entrance to the cave is completely safe for children. The tour also includes Castle Park, which is the highest point in Hoboken, and offers a breathtaking view of Manhattan. Children love to identify the distant buildings like the Freedom Tower and the Empire State Building.

Hoboken has a great history of land and water transportation, so just pointing out the fire trucks, trains, and boats is enough to inspire many young children. There are also so many opportunities to point out historical landmarks while you’re out doing errands, or going on a walk, that aren’t so commonplace in many other cities in the U.S. It’s one of the things that makes Hoboken a great place to live.

The Long-Term Benefits of a Great Preschool

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Traditionally, parents and even many educators have often thought of preschool as mainly a place to send kids to socialize, have fun, and get acclimated to a regular schedule. However, more and more research suggests that preschool actually has a profound effect on children’s intellectual and emotional development.

The Surprising Impact of Preschool

Here are some key findings on how preschool plays such an important role in children’s development.

  • According to author and journalist Suzanne Bouffard, preschool may be the most important educational experience of a child’s life. In her book, The Most Important Year, preschool is when children learn critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In addition to getting introduced to some key academic areas such as reading and math, kids learn social skills such as sharing and cooperating.
  • One of the best-known studies of the long-term advantages of preschool is the Perry Preschool Study, which followed children from the age of 3 all the way to age 40. It turned out that those who participated in a quality preschool program were more likely to graduate high school, hold jobs and had higher earnings than those who didn’t attend the program.
  • Pew Charitable Trusts report that children who attend quality pre-K programs are less likely to be held back a grade and more likely to graduate from high school. Their research also points to the problem of kids getting left behind due to a poor start. Once a child is held back, it’s hard for him or her to catch up. Attending preschool reduces the risks of children getting stuck in such a downward spiral.
  • There’s even evidence that preschools can help to reduce crime. A study conducted in Chicago public schools found that kids who participated in a preschool program were less likely to commit crimes later in life.

There’s little doubt that preschool can make a substantial difference in children’s lives and that the benefits continue all the way into adulthood.

Choosing the Right Preschool

Quite a bit of the research on the benefits of attending preschool specifies that the program must be of a certain quality. The Perry Preschool Study, for example, looked at children who attended a “high-quality preschool program.” The Pew Charitable Trusts research makes a similar qualification, saying “high-quality pre-k increases a child’s chances of succeeding in school and in life.” Thus, the advantages of these programs aren’t necessarily gained by sending kids to any preschool. But how do you evaluate the quality and choose the right one? There are several criteria you can apply.

  • Be clear about what you want from the preschool. Some parents are mainly interested in providing their children with a social experience. Others want them to get a solid head start on reading and academic subjects. When looking at preschools, make sure you select one that matches your needs.
  • Recommendations. Ask other parents whose children attend or have attended a preschool and whether they’d recommend it. When researching preschools, see if they publish any testimonials.
  • Consider the school’s approach or educational philosophy. Some schools are faith-based. Others follow a system such as Waldorf or Montessori. Research the alternatives and find a school whose approach is in alignment with your ideas.
  • Visit the school. It’s always best to visit a school in person. Call a preschool that you’re considering and make an appointment to visit. You can also see if they have any special events where you can meet some of the staff and teachers.

Sending your child to the right preschool can be one of the most important decisions you can make as a parent. Children are ready to absorb all kinds of knowledge and life skills that can be fostered in a preschool environment. Before choosing a preschool, however, make sure you do plenty of research so you find one that’s the ideal match for you and your child.

Tessa International School is a top preschool in Hoboken, NJ, and considers its program to be as high-quality and enriching as they come for young children who deserve the best start. Tessa prepares children to become leaders of the 21st century. For more information, contact us.

6 Popular After-School Activities for Children In and Around Jersey City

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If you’re a working parent, you know how important it is for your child to stay busy, content, and safe in an educational and fun environment when school is over, while you’re still at work. After-school activities can also be beneficial for children whose parents do not work during after-school hours.

There are several advantages for enrolling children in after-school programs, such as:

  • Enhancing academic performance
  • Providing them with a place to study and do homework
  • Giving peace of mind to parents who have to work
  • Offering social skills as children learn to interact and play with their peers
  • Providing consistency in a young child’s daily schedule
  • Relieving boredom—As a result, children are more prone to stay out of trouble.

Fortunately, Jersey City parents have several options when it comes to choosing high quality after-school activities for their children. Here are six of the best after-school activities for children in Jersey City, and additional tips you may want to take into consideration.

Tiny Greenhouse (498 Jersey Ave, Jersey City)

  • Tiny Greenhouse is an art studio that focuses on developing a child’s creativity through play.
  • This program is intended for young children, ranging in age from 15 months to eight years old.
  • It’s a nature-friendly art studio that offers classes in arts and crafts.
  • Other features include holiday and summer camps, along with customized birthday parties.

Jersey City Dance Academy (107 West Side Ave, Jersey City)

  • As one of Jersey City’s most comprehensive dance academies, Jersey City Dance Academy (JCDA) includes classes in hip hop, ballet, modern dance and other dance styles.
  • Classes are offered for children, starting at age two years old to teens.

Bambino Chef (213 Newark Ave, Jersey City)

  • Bambino Chef believes in teaching young children the importance of knowing how to cook.
  • Children learn how to create tasty, nutritious and fun recipes, which can lead to a lifelong interest in cooking.

Three Little Birds (16 Erie St, Jersey City)

  • Three Little Birds offers a wide range of creative activities, making it an ideal after-school program for children.
  • Programs include everything from an art lab, crafting, sewing, ballet and more.

My Gym – Jersey City (252 9th St, Jersey City)

  • Various fitness classes, according to age groups, are available at My Gym.
  • Classes in martial arts are a huge perk. In fact, this is one of the most popular after-school programs and winter classes.

Club 1050 (1050 Kennedy Blvd, Bayonne, New Jersey)

  • The main priority at Club 1050 is helping students with their homework.
  • Weekly fitness, which is provided in a park, gym or pool, is another feature.
  • A game room offers game-zone activities for children.
  • This after-school program provides a structured, safe environment for children, ranging in age from Pre-K through 8th grade.
  • Transportation is available for students from Bayonne schools and certain Jersey City schools to the Jersey City Center.
  • Club 1050 is open during school holidays and half days, besides other occasions when schools are closed.

Things to Consider When Choosing the Right After-School Program

  • When considering the best after-school program, be sure it includes some free time for children, in addition to structured activities. Consider how children need some time to unwind and relax after being in school all day.
  • However, make sure any unstructured time allows children to develop socially and explore their own unique interests.
  • Make sure any after-school program you’re considering has enough workers for the number of children enrolled. In other words, it should have a low adult to student ratio as this gives children more individual attention.

Are you looking for a preschool for your little one? You can’t find a better preschool than Tessa International School, based in Hoboken, New Jersey. In addition to providing an extraordinary preschool education for young children, we also offer after-school language classes as well as before and after-school care. Please contact us and find out more about all we have to offer.

Check out our other Hoboken & Hudson County lists:

5 Great Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Jersey City

10 Great Family Activities in Hoboken

10 Awesome Activities in Hoboken to Keep the Kids Busy After-School

Four Gyms with Great Childcare In and Around Hoboken

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by Tori Galatro

Working out relieves stress, promotes health, and keeps you energized throughout the day, all facets of self-care that are hard to keep up with when you’re looking after a child. Luckily, many gyms offer childcare for a small fee, so you, and your child too, can get the benefits of a great workout. Here are some of the best gyms in and around Hoboken, New Jersey with safe, accommodating, and attentive childcare options.

Local Barre

Hoboken Uptown: 1180 Maxwell Lane, Hoboken, NJ

Hoboken WEST: 720 Monroe Street C300, Hoboken, NJ

If you’re a fan of yoga, pilates, and dance, the barre classes at Local Barre offer a unique way to get fit in a positive, fun, fabulous, and confidence-building environment. This proudly high-end establishment is women focussed (although anyone is welcome), safe, and child-friendly. Known as Monkey Barre, Local Barre offers BYOBaby classes for younger than 6 months, and separate childcare for older than 6 months. Children need to be registered for classes, and parents are encouraged to bring a supportive seat for children who can’t sit independently. Toys, books, puzzles, videos, and music are available in the playroom, where parents can drop their children off for supervised free play while they enjoy a barre class. Childcare is $5 per child and allows nut-free snacks and drinks. Child and adult classes are available throughout the week for convenient scheduling in two Hoboken locations. Memberships range from $149 per month to $249 per month.

Hamilton Health & Fitness

161 Erie Street, Jersey City, NJ

This classic high-end gym is spotlessly clean, which is great considering they boast a pool, a steam room, and a sauna. A jungle gym and children’s room are devoted to childcare every morning, early afternoon, and some evenings, for children between 3 and 7 years old. Childcare at Hamilton is $10 per child with a membership, but they can stay for the impressively long span of 2 hours, and are visible from a TV in the workout spaces. Adults can take classes in pilates, yoga, martial arts, and even swimming. Children can enjoy swimming at this facility too, with classes from infants to preteens. Memberships are $90 per month with a $125 enrollment fee.

 

Prime Cycle

70 Hudson St, Hoboken, NJ

With rhythmic beats and lights, these spin classes feel more like going to a dance club than going to the gym. Incorporating full body choreographed workouts, Prime Cycle offers full-sensory spin classes that are sure to get you sweating, and even keep track of your stats so you can beat your own record. The facility is very clean and comfortable, with multiple showers. Parents can register in advance for $5 Mini Prime babysitting during classes throughout the week. There are typically 1-3 babysitting times per day. Prime Cycle also offers kids yoga, for ages 4 to 6, and family yoga, for all ages. Plans include a 5 Class Pass for $95, Unlimited Classes for $170, and many more deals and packages.

Work it Out

603 Willow Ave, Hoboken, NJ

5 Marine View Plaza, Hoboken, NJ

This gym is all about confident, strong, empowered women. The classes are diverse and unique, including influences of spin, zumba, barre, boxing, yoga, dance, and more. Work it Out has options to keep children occupied from newborns to teens. In Bite Size Barre, women do barre exercises with their children, up to 18 months, beside them, strapped to them, or still in their tummies. In Kids Gap (Gymnastics and Play), moms can drop their children off at childcare while they take a class for $10, with discounts available. Children are entertained by the staff with age-appropriate exercise, games, and arts and crafts. Work it Out also hosts its own kids gymnastics program running from age 2 to age 14. Memberships range from $145 per month to $189 per month, with packages available for $22 per class.

At Tessa International School in Hoboken, we know free play and exercise is an essential part of PreSchool education. We even offer Summer Camps!

Check out our other Hoboken & Hudson County lists:

5 Great Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Jersey City

10 Great Family Activities in Hoboken

10 Awesome Activities in Hoboken to Keep the Kids Busy After-School

3 Hands-On Pre-Reading Activities for Preschoolers

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By Tori Galatro

Your child can get a head start on reading if they learn to recognize letters and sounds at an early age. There are plenty of apps and TV shows that can help your child learn their letters, but hands-on activities are just as great for a number of reasons. For one, they can help your child to develop fine motor skills beyond tapping a screen. Hands-on activities can also help with memorization by providing spatial and physical interaction. Most importantly, hands-on activities tend to be more social, and involve contact with parents and other children. This social emotional contact is essential for learning and developing other crucial skills, as well as helping to create meaningful memories associated with their pre-reading skills. The following three pre-reading hands-on activities are easy to set up, easy to clean up, safe, cheap, and so much fun for young children.

Activity #1: Make an Alphabet Book

This idea comes from the mommy blog Teach Mama. Sick of throwing away those ads you get in the mail from the grocery store? Put them to good use by making an alphabet book! Gather 26 pages of colored construction paper and write one letter at the top of each with marker. Write both capital and lowercase. Even if your child isn’t learning to read yet, they can start to recognize these symbols and learn that they have meaning. Then, go through the magazines and ads with you child and help them to look for items that begin with each letter. Help your child to cut or rip out each item as they go and paste it under the letter. When you’re done, you can help your child to bind the pages together into a book with yarn and a hole punch. Don’t worry if they don’t finish the book. They can add to it anytime the mail comes in and continue to build letter-sound associations.

Activity #2: Play the Alphabet Memory Game

This is another game that you can return to over and over. Take a pack of paper plates and write uppercase letters on half and the equivalent lowercase letters on the other half. Then, mix them up and spread them out on the ground face down. The object of the game is to match the upper with their lower case letters by remembering where each letter was. Each turn, your child turns two letters face up, try to remember them, and then turns them face down. If they get a match, those plates get removed from the board. This game can be challenging for anyone, so it can be played in a group of varying ages. You can join in too! You can try this game several different ways depending on your child’s level of development. They can match equivalent capital letters, match letters to words beginning with that letter, or even match letters to pictures of words beginning with that letter. They can even write or draw on the plates themselves for a whole other activity!

Activity #3: Learn with Alphabet Bingo

All you need for this game are a few printouts which can be found at the mommy blog Crazy Little Projects, available in both capital and lowercase letters. This game is great for any number of children. When you pick the letter, you can show it to them, or just call it out for an added challenge. Children can use candies to block off the letters as they go, or if you don’t want to spoil dinner, they can use cotton balls, coins, or anything you can think up. Since every board is different, younger children can even look at the older children’s boards for help, and it won’t be cheating. Children can use the skills they’ve learned, but everyone has an equal chance of winning.

Social Emotional Learning: Implementing Sociograms

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Fostering Success: The Role of Social Emotional Learning in Classrooms

 

Classrooms play a crucial role in children’s intellectual and emotional development. Outside the home, they learn values and behavioral norms. That’s why preschools are incorporating Social Emotional Learning (SEL) into their education.

Social Emotional Learning: The Essential Ingredient for Well-Rounded Education

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) integrates various education aspects and life skills into the school curriculum, helping children succeed in school, careers, relationships, and life. Research shows SEL increases achievement rates and encourages positive habits and behaviors, like kindness, empathy, sharing, and gratitude.

There are 5 key skills that are taught through Social Emotional Learning:

  1. Self-Awareness: SEL helps children understand their emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and the consequences of their actions.

 

  1. Self-Management: It guides children towards independence by controlling emotions, behaviors, and reactions.

 

  1. Social Awareness: SEL enables children to become aware of different cultures and backgrounds, understanding and empathizing with others.

 

  1. Relationship Skills: It aids in developing and maintaining healthy relationships and acting within social norms.

 

  1. Responsible Decision Making: SEL teaches responsible decision-making, considering the consequences of thoughts and actions.

 

Emotional Growth in the Classroom: Practical Approaches to SEL Integration

Teachers can implement these lessons through sharing experiences, engaging in social activities, teaching about different cultures and social norms, developing social skills, and creating a diverse environment. SEL helps young children learn these valuable skills at an early age. SEL can be incorporated into all learning, and sociograms can help map social interactions for older students.

Teachers can use the help of sociograms to map out social interactions and create a socially dynamic classroom, especially with older students.

Constructing a Sociogram

To create a sociogram, ask each student to write down two other students they’d like to partner with in a group activity. Collect the names and create a flow-chart, identifying isolates, gender divisions, and groups. Sociograms help teachers focus their attention and implement SEL tailored to their classroom’s needs.

For questions or concerns about implementing sociograms, contact Tessa International School.

Here’s an example of a completed sociogram.

Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

Inquire Tour Apply

Join us at Tessa International School

Discover why our bilingual curriculum is recognized as one of the best. Learn how we combine academic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences that foster global awareness.

Office: (201) 755-5585

Location: 720 Monroe St. Hoboken, NJ 07030