1st Edition
I'm Not Getting Them Ready for Kindergarten Breaking Tradition in Early Childhood Education
Meet the Author
Introduction
Chapter 1
I’m Not Getting Them Ready for Kindergarten
Developmentally appropriate, play based environments DO get children ready for Kindergarten!
Chapter 2
That’s Not a Turkey
Child-led learning is a catalyst for wonder and discovery!
Chapter 3
Creativity Vampires
Child-led and play based learning are the ultimate creativity muses!
Chapter 4
The Hummingbird Teacher
The teacher’s role in a child-led, play based learning environment.
Chapter 5
Let Them Pick Their Nose
Children learn so much more when adults learn to say “YES!”
Chapter 6
The Great Worm Saving Expedition
Children learn best through real-world adventures.
Chapter 7
Play Detectives
Unveiling the genius in children’s play by observing and documenting.
Chapter 8
Yesteryear and Tomorrowday
Traditional calendar time is like trying to teach a preschooler quantum physics!
Chapter 9
The Pizza Parlor Heist
Ditching rotational centers and diving headfirst into free play!
Chapter 10
The Eagle That Taught Literacy Skills
Letters don’t need a week; they’re more meaningful when we weave them into what excites kids and sparks their curiosity!
Chapter 11
Circle Time Anarchy
Long circle times and circle times are inappropriate, counterproductive and boring.
Chapter 12
Behavior Charts in the Teacher’s Lounge
Punishments and rewards miss the whole point; they’re band aids and quick fixes.
Chapter 13
Mermaids in the Woods
Rethinking recess and seeing the great outdoors as an extension of the classroom.
Chapter 14
A Room Full of Junk
Loose parts are teachers themselves!
Chapter 15
Sharing is NOT Caring
Sharing isn’t caring; teaching children to take turns is.
A Letter to YOU
Biography
Kristen Day is the retired founder of a magical place called Butterfly Hill Nature Preschool. She is now a podcaster, international keynote speaker, and online entrepreneur, using her experience and B.A. in Education to help early childhood educators find play, settle in, and enjoy the journey.
