Using a Child-Centered Curriculum Approach in Out-of-School Time Programs

“Over 10 million US children head to after-school programs when the school day ends. Young people who stay for after-school programming spend a large part of their waking hours on the school campus. OST programs provide youths with safety and supervision. Research shows that some OST programs can support student academic achievement and may play a role in reducing health disparities. Additionally, programs that follow evidence-based practices aimed at improving personal and social skills of youths are linked with positive social behaviors.”

Given this research, educators in after school and out of school time programs play a crucial role in supporting the development of young children, and their approach to curriculum planning should reflect an understanding of Developmentally Appropriate Practice and the importance of keeping curriculum planning focus on the child.

In this training, we focus on the importance of helping children build confidence in their abilities and increase engagement in learning using a child-centered approach in afterschool program planning. A child-centered approach focuses on planning based upon children’s interests and unique needs as well as integrating the educator’s talents and interests in planning. Join us as we weave together strategies to support learning by exploring children and educator’s strengths and talents, interests and needs, and program goals. We will also explore how to engage families and access community resources as a comprehensive approach to curriculum planning.
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Upon enrollment in this 5-hour course, you will have 2 weeks to complete all course content and submit your evaluation. Once the training is successfully completed, a .5 CEU certificate will be issued.

25% of this workshop will address the issues of "diverse learners"

Learning Outcomes

By participating in this training, participants should be able to:
  • Discuss the benefits of child-centered curriculum.
  • Involve children in curriculum planning.
  • Utilize children's interests, strengths, and needs for use in planning curriculum.
  • Offering child-centered curriculum.

The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc.

The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc. was established in 2005 to provide professional development and consultation services to early childhood programs and educators. We work collaboratively with programs, educators, and agencies to improve the quality of education and care for young children and families.

IEPD has master instructors who provide training, coaching and mentoring services. Each of the IEPD instructors receives training on adult learning principles, training design and delivery, and evaluation. All of the IEPD instructors have worked in the field of early childhood education, bringing their own experiences and "lessons learned" to the training.

Our trainings are fun, engaging, and are filled with important information and resources. We want to work with you, hear your stories, successes and challenges, and provide assistance to help you in your work.
Patrick Jones - Course author
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