ABOUT OUR EXPERT
Ms Lim is an ECDA Fellow and Senior Learning Support Manager at NTUC First Campus, overseeing small-group intervention programmes for typically developing children with learning needs. She envisions classrooms as places where both children and adults experience joy and success.
Classrooms are made up of children with varying needs, abilities, strengths and interests. Addressing their diverse needs is important for facilitating each child’s holistic development.
Here are three ways to create a supportive preschool environment for all children.
USE FLEXIBLE GROUPING
Provide opportunities for children to join different types of groups. Ability-based grouping enables educators to scaffold learning at the children’s specific skill levels. However, mixed-ability grouping is also important, as this fosters a culture of empathy. It encourages children to work together and build positive relationships.
Children can be grouped together based on their individual abilities, needs and interests.
PROVIDE VARIATIONS OF THE SAME ACTIVITY
Allow children to participate in activities in different ways. Take book reviews, for example. Some can copy words from the book and write their own sentences. Other children can draw as the teacher writes down their descriptions. Those who require more support can review the book through a ‘Show & Tell’ presentation.
INTEGRATE STRENGTHS AND INTERESTS INTO CLASSROOM ACTIVITIES
For instance, if children enjoy ball games, set up activity stations that could include a throwing zone or a rolling area to knock down skittles. For outdoor play, organise simple ball games like catching different-sized balls.
