Maria Castillo’s Profile

This course is an introduction to the theories, methods and materials of curriculum planning in early childhood education (Preschool – Grade 2), with an emphasis on providing developmentally and culturally appropriate learning environments and experiences that encourage creativity in young children. The following topics are explored in depth: the intellectual and emotional importance of fostering creativity, the role of play in learning, the design of effective arts-based learning environments; the role of visual arts, music, movement and language arts/emergent literacy in developing children?s cognitive, social-emotional, physical, language and self-help skills. Course work includes workshops in planning and implementing creative arts experiences for young children.

This course is an introduction to the theories, methods and materials of curriculum planning in early childhood education (Preschool – Grade 2), with an emphasis on providing developmentally and culturally appropriate learning environments and experiences that encourage creativity in young children. The following topics are explored in depth: the intellectual and emotional importance of fostering creativity, the role of play in learning, the design of effective arts-based learning environments; the role of visual arts, music, movement and language arts/emergent literacy in developing children?s cognitive, social-emotional, physical, language and self-help skills. Course work includes workshops in planning and implementing creative arts experiences for young children.

The EC field, particularly in the US, is one fraught with a history of inequity that can be addressed and dismantled with your awareness and actions. Over the course of the semester, we’ll explore the lives, contexts, and contributions of EC pioneers, and lessons that you can apply to your own growing identities as EC teachers. Over the course of this month, I want you to understand your role as advocates for children and families that don’t always have a seat at the table, regardless of where you sit.

The EC field, particularly in the US, is one fraught with a history of inequity that can be addressed and dismantled with your awareness and actions. Over the course of the semester, we’ll explore the lives, contexts, and contributions of EC pioneers, and lessons that you can apply to your own growing identities as EC teachers. Over the course of this month, I want you to understand your role as advocates for children and families that don’t always have a seat at the table, regardless of where you sit.