Name
Thematic Units That Engage & Teach (Pre-K)
Speakers
Session Type
Workshop
Track
Pre-K / TK Experience
Description
Unlock the magic of thematic units and turn your classroom into a world where play, exploration, and academic growth come together! In this engaging and hands-on session, you’ll learn how to:
- Design cohesive, research-based thematic units that not only inspire curiosity but also support essential early learning standards.
- Discover how thematic teaching fosters deeper engagement and retention by connecting concepts across multiple domains, including literacy, math, and social-emotional development.
- Learn practical tools for integrating sensory bins, fine motor tasks, hands-on activities, and small group lessons into your themes to promote whole-child development.
- Explore strategies for incorporating purposeful play centers, backed by research on how young children learn best through active exploration and play.
By the end of this session, you’ll feel confident in your ability to create thematic units that align with academic standards, spark creativity, and make learning magical. Let’s work together to transform your classroom into a place where students thrive, grow, and love to learn!
Common Core Standards
Pre-K Skills
Focus and Attention:
Remains focused on teacher-led group activities for up to 10–15 minutes.
Remains focused on teacher-led group activities for up to 20 minutes.
Art and Exploration:
Uses a variety of art materials for sensory experiences and creative exploration.
Rules and Routines:
Follows simple rules and routines with adult assistance.
Follows classroom rules and routines with occasional reminders.
Focus and Attention:
Remains focused on teacher-led group activities for up to 10–15 minutes.
Remains focused on teacher-led group activities for up to 20 minutes.
Art and Exploration:
Uses a variety of art materials for sensory experiences and creative exploration.
Rules and Routines:
Follows simple rules and routines with adult assistance.
Follows classroom rules and routines with occasional reminders.
Session Research
Hattie, J. (2012). Visible Learning for Teachers: Maximizing Impact on Learning.
Copple, C., & Bredekamp, S. (2020). Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth through Age 8 (4th Edition).
Hendrick, J., & Weissman, P. (2020). The Whole Child: Developmental Education for the Early Years (11th Edition).
Van Hoorn, J., Nourot, P., Scales, B., & Alward, K. R. (2021). Play at the Center of the Curriculum (6th Edition).
Copple, C., & Bredekamp, S. (2020). Developmentally Appropriate Practice in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth through Age 8 (4th Edition).
Hendrick, J., & Weissman, P. (2020). The Whole Child: Developmental Education for the Early Years (11th Edition).
Van Hoorn, J., Nourot, P., Scales, B., & Alward, K. R. (2021). Play at the Center of the Curriculum (6th Edition).