Small groups occur when teachers work with a few children at a time to offer more focused experiences, such as reading a book or introducing a new concept. They also occur when children move through self-guided learning centers. In both cases, small groups provide a context for children to extend their thinking, practice emerging language skills, build on each other’ s ideas, and cooperatively solve problems. Additionally, they allow teachers to hear and ask focused questions, provide feedback and scaffolding, and offer individualized instruction and guidance. They are an important part of developmentally appropriate practice.
As a former early learning program director, I had many opportunities to observe educators working with children in small groups in a variety of effective ways. I also observed educators implementing strategies that were less successful and worked to support them in developing more effective practices.
Following are seven strategies you, as a preschool or kindergarten educator, can follow to intentionally plan for and implement small groups in your setting.( See“ Small Groups in the Primary Grades” for strategies that first- through third-grade educators can use.)
Educating Young Children |
Vol 1 No 1 |
Spring 2025 |
NAEYC. org / EYC |
65 |