1 Understanding Children Kindergarten – 3 to 5 Years Presented by Donna J. Habenicht, Ed.D.

2 The “Fun” Years

3 First Spiritual Lessons “As the mother teaches her children to obey her because they love her, she is teaching them the first lessons in the Christian life. The mother’s love represents to the child the love of Christ, and the little ones who trust and obey their mother are learning to trust and obey the Savior.” Ellen G. White The Desire of Ages, p. 515

4 Growing Physically Growing rapidly Use large muscles Active, energetic, easily tired Usually independent Prone to accidents Farsighted Most can sing

5 Growing Mentally Talkative Realistic thinkers Learn specifics Eager to learn Memorize quickly Easily distracted Curious, questioner Tend to be one-track

6 Growing Mentally - 2 Imaginative, love stories Self-centered Not capable of group discussion Limited understanding of time, space, numbers, money, natural laws. Getting ready to learn to read and write. Believe what adults tell them.

7 Growing Socially Beginning friendships Enjoy playing with other children Imaginary playmates Conformists Learning to share Usually cooperative Like “grown-up” play

8 Growing Socially - 2 Like adults. Want to please them. 3s usually play alone or parallel. 4s and 5s learning cooperative play. Eager to grow up and get to next birthday. Like to dress up like adults and imitate adults.

9 Growing Emotionally Intense feelings Many fears Need calmness Want to be in center Usually optimistic Naturally sympathetic Want to be “big” Self-confidence

10 Planning Sabbath School for Kindergarten Include large and small motor activities and manipulatives. Alternate active and quieter activities. Maintain routines – still need repetition. Use familiar ideas, but also challenge. Use stories, music, drama. Use concrete words and ideas. Use only skills children have mastered.

11 Doing Sabbath School with Kindergartners Keep a loving, calm, happy atmosphere. Keep structure and order predictable. Check on children’s understanding. Allow plenty of time for an activity. Help children learn social skills. Avoid frightening noises and situations. Be organized – no gaps. Have lots of help.

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