Differentiated Instruction Blog 4

            Throughout this module I was able to observe the enrichment teacher.  She plans activities for different groups of children in each classroom.  The parents get to choose which extra curricular activities they wish to have their child join.  Some of the options are cooking, math, and phonics.  The students get to leave their classroom to work in small groups in the activity they are signed up for.  I think the enrichment activities are great for the children for many reasons.  One major reason is the social interaction. The children are encouraged to participate and work with other students throughout the fun activity or lesson.  Another great benefit of the enrichment activities is it allows the children a break from the classroom and the children can fun as they gain new experiences and learn.  I asked the teacher how the groups of children are selected and decided upon.  She explained that one major factor of which children get to join her and with which other students is all depending on which activity they are signed up for.  When the students are in math or phonics, the enrichment teacher will assess them and learn their abilities and then plan accordingly.  I really enjoyed learning about this part of the program; not many programs offer these experiences to young children. 

            The enrichment teacher explained to me that the groups of children for math and phonics can be mixed with children three to five years old.  I explained the teacher that I was advocating for differentiated instruction and that I feel she sets a great example for my topic.  She expressed her thoughts in how all children are different and know different things, so it is important to her that each child is receiving the appropriate challenges and assistance.  She explained that she feels her job is important and beneficial to the children because she gets to have more one-on-one time and small group time with the children.  Most of the caregivers have many other children to care for and interact with, so they may lose some opportunity to observe, assess, and differentiate when needed.  I feel I learned a lot about my topic throughout this observation. 

            I asked the teacher how, and if, she communicates with the children’s parents and families.  She explained that she tries to communicate with the parents and families when she sees them, but since she does not get to see them on a regular basis, she communicates through writing notes and typing newsletters.  She explained that she communicates through posting important information around the school, and sending it home.  If there is a problem or concern she can schedule a time to meet with the parents.  She makes sure to share what the children are learning, and how each individual child learns.