Take a Tour of Our Continuum
Our Early Learning and Development Continuum includes nine domains with goals for ages birth to five. Each month these concepts are embedded in new themes and daily lesson plans. Join us as we explore the domains and show you how FunShine curricula will build skills and make learning fun!
What is Social Studies?
Social studies prepares children to become engaged and informed individuals in a rapidly diverse and ever-changing society. Through social studies, children explore and ask questions and observe nonverbal social cues that can sometimes reflect bias. For many children, childcare is their first experience in a nonfamily, structured social environment. As such, they are beginning to acquire skills in collaboration, problem-solving, and decision-making. Many of these skills will be learned and refined by interacting with peers and the guidance of knowledgeable and caring adults.
Social Studies Topics to Introduce in Your Classroom
Social studies concepts can include lessons in economics, history, and geography. You can start with local concepts and work your way up to global topics. Here are some topics you can introduce:
- Forming friendships
- People in our community
- Community responsibilities
- Pedestrian safety
- Family traditions
Social Studies Activities
Parent engagement activity: Family Fun Month
Summer is a great time for families to enjoy activities and play together. You can brainstorm fun activities your class enjoys doing with their families and then make a list and post it on your family bulletin board. Don’t forget to send a copy of the list home with each family to offer fun, new ideas they can do together. Here is a downloadable list of ideas to get you started.
Ages 0-3: My Bedtime Routine
Having a consistent bedtime routine helps prepare children for sleep by having them relax and wind down. A predictable routine also gives children a sense of security and teaches them how to fall asleep on their own. This activity is a great way to talk about bedtime routines at home.
Ages 3-5: Building A Neighborhood
Communities can generate a feeling of belonging to a time, place, and culture. They can also provide an opportunity to learn how to communicate and get along with a variety of different people, not just peers. This activity allows children to learn more about the world around them.
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