Teachers who are responsible for caring and teaching children ages 1 and 2 at iBrainy Schools in Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria, play a crucial role in fostering a nurturing and educational environment for these young learners. Their duties encompass a wide range of responsibilities to ensure the children’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Here’s a breakdown of their duties, including songs and rhymes they should be familiar with, and appropriate demonstration styles:
- Caring for Basic Needs: Nursery teachers need to attend to children’s basic needs, such as feeding, diaper changing, and nap times. Creating a safe and hygienic environment is paramount.
- Creating a Stimulating Environment: Teachers should design the classroom environment to be engaging and child-friendly. Colorful visuals, age-appropriate toys, and sensory materials should be readily available.
- Early Learning Activities: Teachers engage children in simple learning activities that encourage sensory exploration, such as finger painting, playdough, and water play. These activities stimulate their senses and fine motor skills.
- Language Development: Nursery teachers should engage children in conversation, read simple stories, and encourage them to mimic sounds and words. Songs and rhymes play a vital role in enhancing language skills.
- Songs and Rhymes: Teachers should be conversant with a variety of nursery rhymes and songs that promote language development, rhythm, and creativity. Examples include “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star,” “Baa Baa Black Sheep,” and “The Wheels on the Bus.”
- Social Interaction: Teachers facilitate playtime and encourage children to interact with their peers. This helps develop social skills like sharing, taking turns, and cooperation.
- Motor Skills Development: Nursery teachers lead activities that promote gross motor skills, such as crawling, walking, and simple physical exercises. Fine motor skills are also developed through activities like stacking blocks and manipulating small objects.
- Emotional Support: Teachers provide emotional comfort, reassuring children when they’re upset and helping them develop a sense of security and trust.
- Parent Communication: Regularly updating parents on their child’s progress and daily activities is essential. Effective communication ensures parents are informed about their child’s development.
Demonstration Styles:
- Modeling: Teachers use modeling to show children how to perform tasks, such as stacking blocks or using a spoon. Children learn by observing and imitating.
- Interactive Play: Teachers engage in interactive play with children to foster language development and social skills. This could involve role-playing, pretend play, and imaginative games.
- Sensory Exploration: Teachers allow children to explore sensory materials like sand, water, and textured fabrics. They demonstrate how to interact with these materials to encourage curiosity and discovery.
- Gentle Guidance: When teaching skills like self-feeding or holding a crayon, teachers provide gentle guidance, allowing children to attempt tasks while offering support when needed.
- Encouragement: Teachers use positive reinforcement and encouragement to motivate children’s efforts and build their self-esteem.
In summary, teachers at iBrainy Schools who care for and teach children ages 1 and 2 play a pivotal role in their early development. They create a nurturing environment, engage in educational activities, facilitate language development through songs and rhymes, and employ various demonstration styles to encourage holistic growth.