Field Experience Minneapolis Tour of Early Childhood Schools

The purpose of these tours was to observe various early childhood approaches, methods and setting
that were discussed throughout the semester in class.

I learned that the Blake School used the project approach curriculum. The
childrens artwork was displayed all over the classroom. While we were in the
classroom there was a student giving her class a presentation on peacocks.
Each child in the class was to present about an animal of their choice and
curiosity. The Blake School was very beautiful and aesthetically pleasing.

The Blake School

I observed the Montessori Method. The classrooms I observed were all very
calm and quiet. The children directed the activities to their interests and were
able to roam inside or outside during the time we observed. This method helped
support the development of the children. Outside the environment was planned,
simple, met the childrens needs and allowed the children to make choices.
While observing, the teachers didnt tell the children they couldnt do
something, they simply sat back and observed and re-corrected the behavior if
it wasnt safe. The environment was very aesthetically pleasing and was
Lake Country beautiful.
Montessori School

I was able to see that Dodge Nature Center followed the Reggio Emilia
approach. The environment was beautiful and very welcoming. Childrens
artwork is valued and displayed throughout the preschool. The children
were actively involved in their activity of choice. While I was observing, I
was able to see many hands on experiences in a binder of all the childrens
interest and what they discovered.

Dodge Nature Center

At People Serving People, I learned that they followed the creative

curriculum. Throughout the building there were many security measures
taking place. When we first walked in we had to walk through metal
detectors and go through security. There were cameras throughout the
building. The classroom environments seemed to be very calm and relaxing
to meet the needs of the children.

People Serving People