Children ages 3-5

This is a typical "preschool" age group. The 5 year olds are at an age where they are so independent. They are willing to venture out on their own, making friends, and making their own choices and exploring their atmosphere. The 4's are at the point where they are ready to make friends but are still learning the process of social development. They are competent to usually control their words and actions and have come to the point of knowing that their behavior effects others. Then there are the 3 year olds. Yes the three's. What makes this age so fascinating is that one minute they are the sweetest snuggle bugs, and then the next they are quiet little instigators in a catostrophic classroom breakdown. And strangly enough, this is my favorite age to work with. Why? I'm beginning to wonder. So I examine myself.
1. They love to sit on your lap during a story time.
2. They're fascinated with songs and music.
3. When you come through the door in the morning they run to you with hugs yelling "Miss Kelly!"
4. Most are really curious and eager to learn at this age.
5. They love messy art and don't care about paint on their clothes.
6. They're language is still developing, so you get things like "tookie" and "yogoot" or "pincess"
7. They love when you get down on the floor to play with them.

These are just some of the things I love...but in the very next moment...Hailey strangles Audrey, Christopher pushes Matt, G.G. throws a tantrum, Katie won't wipe her snotty nose, Aaron pee's on the blocks, Gavin and Jordan ignore your directions, Sophia pulls a friends blanket, Audrey bites Hailey's arm, Devon scratches Ryan's neck, Savannah won't share, Ryan throws a block, Audrey pulls out Hailey's hair, and Alyssa steps on Matt's fingers. Wow. This was my classroom this week. It's amazing that I only get a 10 minute break in the morning. 17 three year olds in one classroom should be illegal. Especially with that many personalities....

Yet in my heart I know that sometimes the most difficult children to love, are the ones that need it the most.