Activities @ Home With K & A - Introduction, Reality, Then & Now

Activities @ Home With K & A

Hey, there! I’m Katie (the “K” in K & A). My husband, Matt, and I have a 2 1/2 year old named Avery (she’s the “A”). After going to college for Undergraduate Degrees in Art Therapy and Ceramics, I made my way to Bank Street where I earned my Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education. During my 6 years at the Bank Street School for Children, I taught throughout the entire Lower School, from the 3/4s to the 5/6s. I am currently working as a curriculum consultant, teaching art classes, and producing pottery. I am inspired by young children’s enthusiasm to explore their world through play and investigation. After years of scaffolding and facilitating classroom curriculum, I am now focusing on how to share my experiences and insights with other families. My family of three is currently busy creating obstacle courses, pretending we’re dentists, singing offkey, and making guacamole.

Activities with K & A I love setting up an inviting environment for open ended exploration. I live by: -

Less is more.

Use what you’ve got.

Reuse, reduce, recycle, reset.

“Play is serious work.” - Mr. Rogers

For children to do this serious work, I believe that grown-ups can use everyday items to create simple set ups.

Arranging materials in a pleasing way can help children see possibilities and engage in imaginative play.

Pictures & Reality I’m all about transparency. We do activities first thing in the morning and after rest. This grounds us. As the day goes on pillows get flipped, Avery often “loses” her clothes & the serious work of play is written all over the floor... and couch... and tables. Thankfully it’s not actual writing, just materials, clothing and some loose cheerios are left askew.

3:00pm

5:30pm

Activities then & Now If an activity seems too young or too old, I urge you to give it a try, with some adjustments. When in doubt less is more, start simple.