SHERNEL SHANE M.

PINEDA
MAED-ECE (ECE302 – CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT IN EARLY CHILDHOOD
EDUCATION
PROF. GLORIA VICENCIO PH.D

LESSON 2: THE ROLE OF CURRICULUM

The role of curriculum is to provide a framework for

teaching and learning that outlines the knowledge, skills, and

attitudes that students are expected to develop. It sets out the

learning goals, objectives, and standards that students are

expected to achieve at each stage of their education. The

curriculum helps teachers plan and deliver effective lessons,

assessments, and activities that support students' learning and

growth. It also provides a common set of expectations for all

students, ensuring that they receive a high-quality education

that prepares them for success in their future careers and in

life.

Curriculum can be designed to reflect the needs and values

of a particular community, country, or culture, and can be

adapted and revised over time in response to changing educational

needs and priorities.

LESSON 2.1: PRE-SCHOOL CARE, LEARNING AND CURRICULUM

Preschool care, learning, and curriculum refer to the

activities and educational programs that are designed to support

the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development of

young children. This includes children between the ages of 2 to 5

years, who are not yet old enough to attend formal education in

primary schools.
 Preschool curriculum typically includes activities that

promote the development of literacy, numeracy, and other

essential skills, such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and

creativity. It may also include activities that promote social

and emotional development, such as play-based learning, group

activities, and emotional regulation exercises.

Preschool programs may also focus on providing a safe and

nurturing environment for young children. This includes providing

nutritious meals, ensuring proper hygiene, and creating

opportunities for children to engage in physical activity and

outdoor play.

Overall, preschool care, learning, and curriculum play a

crucial role in preparing young children for success in later

years of formal education and in life. By providing a solid

foundation for learning and development, preschool programs can

help ensure that children have the skills, knowledge, and social-

emotional competencies needed to thrive in school and beyond.

Preschool care refers to the physical, emotional, and social

well-being of young children. It includes providing a safe and

nurturing environment, adequate nutrition and rest, and

opportunities for play and exploration.

Learning in preschool involves the acquisition of basic

skills and knowledge that will form the foundation for later

learning. This includes developing language and communication

skills, numeracy and literacy skills, as well as social and

emotional skills such as empathy, self-control, and relationship-

building.
The curriculum in preschool is designed to promote the overall

development of young children. It typically includes a wide range

of activities that aim to foster the cognitive, social,

emotional, and physical growth of preschool-aged children. The

specific curriculum in preschool may vary depending on the

program, but some common elements include:

1. Literacy and Language Development: Preschool curriculum often

includes activities that promote the development of language and

literacy skills. These activities may include storytelling,

rhyming games, reading aloud, and letter recognition.

2. Math and Science: Preschool curriculum may also include

activities that introduce children to basic mathematical concepts

and scientific principles. These may include counting games,

sorting activities, and simple experiments.

3. Social and Emotional Development: Preschool curriculum often

includes activities that promote social and emotional

development, such as sharing games, problem-solving activities,

and emotional regulation exercises.

LESSON 2.2: CURRICULUM APROACHES AND DEVELOPMENTAL TASKS FOR

YOUNG CHILDREN

There are several curriculum approaches for young children,

including:

1. Play-based curriculum: This approach emphasizes the importance

of play in children's learning and development. It is based on

the idea that young children learn best through exploration,

experimentation, and discovery.

2. Montessori curriculum: This approach is based on the work of

Maria Montessori and emphasizes the development of independence,

self-regulation, and a love of learning. It focuses on hands-on,

experiential learning and emphasizes the importance of the

environment in supporting children's development.

3. Project-based curriculum: This approach emphasizes the

importance of student-led projects and inquiry-based learning. It

is based on the idea that children learn best when they are

engaged in meaningful, authentic projects that reflect their

interests and passions.

In terms of developmental tasks for young children, there

are several key areas of focus, including:

1. Social-emotional development: This includes developing a sense

of self, learning to regulate emotions, and developing positive

relationships with others.

2. Language and communication development: This includes

developing oral language skills, learning to read and write, and

developing the ability to communicate effectively with others.

3. Cognitive development: This includes developing problem-

solving skills, critical thinking skills, and the ability to

learn and retain information.

4. Physical development: This includes developing gross motor and

fine motor skills, as well as developing an understanding of

health and wellness.

Curriculum approaches should be designed to support and

facilitate the achievement of these developmental tasks for young

children.
LESSON 2.2.a.: HOW YOUNG CHILDREN LEARN?

Young children learn through a combination of exploration,

experimentation, and social interaction. They are naturally

curious and have an innate desire to understand the world around

them. Some of the key ways that young children learn include:

1. Play: Play is a natural way for children to learn about their

environment and develop new skills. Through play, they can

explore, experiment, and practice new concepts and ideas.

2. Observation: Young children are constantly observing the

people and objects around them, and they learn by imitating the

behaviors and actions of others.

3. Social interaction: Social interaction is critical for young

children's learning and development. Through interactions with

parents, teachers, and peers, they learn important social and

emotional skills, such as empathy, communication, and problem-

solving.

4. Direct instruction: While play and exploration are important

for young children's learning, they also benefit from direct

instruction from adults who can provide guidance, support, and

feedback.

5. Hands-on experiences: Young children learn best when they can

engage in hands-on, experiential learning. They benefit from

opportunities to manipulate objects, explore materials, and

engage in sensory experiences.

Overall, young children learn best when they are actively

engaged in the learning process, and when they are able to

connect new concepts and ideas to their prior knowledge and

experiences. They also benefit from a safe, supportive, and

stimulating learning environment that fosters their curiosity and

love of learning.

LESSON 2.2.b.: THEORIES OF CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND DEVELOPMENTAL

TASKS
There are several key theories of child development that

have been influential in understanding how children grow and

change over time. Some of the most well-known theories include:

Piaget's cognitive development theory: According to Piaget,

children go through a series of stages in their cognitive

development, and each stage is characterized by a different way

of thinking and understanding the world.

Vygotsky's sociocultural theory: Vygotsky's theory emphasizes the

importance of social interactions and cultural context in shaping

children's development. He argued that learning is a

collaborative process that takes place within a social context.

Erikson's psychosocial theory: Erikson's theory identifies eight

stages of psychosocial development, and each stage is

characterized by a unique developmental task or challenge.

Bronfenbrenner's ecological systems theory: Bronfenbrenner's

theory emphasizes the importance of the environment and context

in shaping children's development. He argued that children are

influenced by multiple levels of environmental systems, including

the family, community, and society.

In terms of developmental tasks, there are several key areas

of focus that children need to address in order to develop and

grow:
Physical development: This includes the development of gross and

fine motor skills, as well as the development of physical health

and wellness.

Cognitive development: This includes the development of thinking

and problem-solving skills, as well as the ability to learn and

retain information.

Social-emotional development: This includes the development of

emotional regulation, empathy, communication skills, and the

ability to form positive relationships with others.

Moral development: This includes the development of moral

reasoning and ethical decision-making skills.

Overall, the achievement of developmental tasks is

influenced by both innate factors and environmental factors, such

as the quality of care and education, family and community

support, and cultural and societal norms.

LESSON 2.2.c.: CURRICULUM CONTENT, IMPLEMENTATION, AND

APPLICATION

Curriculum content refers to the specific knowledge, skills,

and concepts that are taught within a particular educational

program. It can include a wide range of subject areas, such as

math, science, social studies, language arts, and the arts. The

content of a curriculum is typically determined by a combination

of educational standards, research-based best practices, and the

needs and interests of the students.

Curriculum implementation refers to the actual process of

teaching and learning within a particular educational program. It

includes the methods and strategies used by teachers to deliver

the curriculum content, as well as the ways in which students

engage with and apply the content. Effective implementation

requires careful planning, ongoing assessment and evaluation, and

collaboration between teachers, administrators, and other

stakeholders.

Curriculum application refers to the ways in which students

use the knowledge and skills they have learned in the curriculum

to solve problems, make decisions, and apply their learning to

real-world situations. It involves critical thinking, creativity,

and the ability to transfer knowledge and skills to new contexts.

Effective curriculum application requires opportunities for

hands-on, experiential learning, as well as opportunities for

reflection and analysis.

Overall, a well-designed curriculum should include clear

learning objectives, engaging and relevant content, effective

instructional strategies, and opportunities for application and

transfer of learning. Successful implementation requires

collaboration and ongoing support from all stakeholders,

including teachers, administrators, parents, and students.

Finally, effective application of the curriculum requires

opportunities for students to apply their learning to real-world

situations and to develop the skills and dispositions needed for

success in life beyond the classroom.

LESSON 5: CURRICULUM AND THE CHILD EXPANDING WORLD

As children grow and develop, their world expands and

becomes increasingly complex. The curriculum must therefore adapt

to meet the changing needs and interests of the child.

In the early years, curriculum content should focus on

providing a safe, nurturing environment that supports the child's

physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. This

might include activities that promote exploration, sensory

experiences, and social interaction. As children grow, the

curriculum should expand to include more formal instruction in

language, literacy, math, science, social studies, and the arts.

At each stage of development, the curriculum should be designed

to build upon the child's prior knowledge and experiences, while

also challenging them to learn and grow.

In addition to adapting to the child's developmental needs,

the curriculum must also reflect the diverse backgrounds and

experiences of the children it serves. This means incorporating

materials and perspectives that reflect the cultural, linguistic,

and socioeconomic diversity of the student population. It also

means providing opportunities for children to learn about and

appreciate different cultures, customs, and traditions.

Finally, the curriculum must also address the changing

demands of the world in which children are growing up. This

includes preparing children for the rapidly changing

technological landscape, as well as for the complex social and

environmental challenges that they will face in their lives. It

means equipping them with the critical thinking, problem-solving,

and communication skills they need to succeed in an ever-changing

world.

Overall, the curriculum must be designed to support the

child's holistic development and to prepare them for success in a

complex, globalized world.

LESSON 5.1.: THE CHILD’S IDENTITY, THINGS AROUND HIM

A child's identity is shaped by a variety of factors,

including their family background, cultural heritage,

experiences, and interactions with others. The things around a

child, such as their home, school, and community, can also have a

significant impact on their identity.

For example, a child's home environment can provide a sense

of stability, security, and belonging, which can contribute to

their overall sense of identity. A home that is rich in cultural

traditions and values can also help children develop a strong

sense of their cultural heritage and identity.

Similarly, a child's school environment can play an

important role in shaping their identity. Schools that embrace

diversity and provide opportunities for students to learn about

different cultures and perspectives can help children develop a

more inclusive and open-minded sense of self. Schools that

prioritize social and emotional learning can also help children

develop a strong sense of self-esteem and resilience.

Community factors, such as the availability of resources and

opportunities, can also have an impact on a child's identity.

Children who grow up in communities with limited resources or

opportunities may struggle to develop a sense of hope and

optimism for their future, while those who grow up in more

affluent communities may feel pressure to conform to certain

expectations or standards.

Overall, the things around a child can shape their identity

in profound ways. It is important for parents, caregivers,

educators, and community members to create supportive and

inclusive environments that help children develop a strong sense

of self and a positive outlook on their future.

LESSON 5.1.a: A SELF/GENDER/SEX

Self, gender, and sex are important concepts that should be

addressed in early childhood education. Young children begin to

develop a sense of self from a very early age, and educators can

play a key role in supporting their healthy development.

In early childhood education, it is important to create a

safe and supportive environment where children can explore and

express their identities. This includes creating opportunities

for children to learn about and appreciate different cultures and

backgrounds, and providing materials and activities that promote

diversity and inclusivity.

Educators should also be aware of the ways in which gender

and sex can influence a child's self-concept, and be prepared to

address questions and concerns in a sensitive and age-appropriate

manner. For example, children may have questions about the

differences between boys and girls, or they may express interest

in activities or toys that are traditionally associated with a

specific gender. Educators can use these opportunities to promote

understanding and respect for all individuals, regardless of

their gender or sex.

It is also important to recognize that children may have

diverse experiences and identities that go beyond gender and sex.

For example, some children may have disabilities or come from

different socioeconomic backgrounds. Educators should be aware of

these differences and strive to create an inclusive and

supportive environment that celebrates diversity and promotes

equity.

Overall, early childhood education should prioritize

creating a safe and supportive environment where children can

explore and express their identities in a healthy and respectful

way. By promoting inclusivity and celebrating diversity,

educators can help children develop a strong sense of self and

respect for others.

LESSON 5.1.b: FAMILY, PRESCHOOL, COMMUNITY

Family, preschool, and community all play important roles in

early childhood education (ECE). Each of these environments

provides unique opportunities and challenges that can impact a

child's development and learning.

Family is often the first and most important influence on a

child's development. Parents and caregivers provide love,

support, and guidance, and help children develop a sense of self

and a foundation for future learning. In ECE, it is important to

involve families in the learning process and create a partnership

between home and school. This includes sharing information about

children's progress, providing resources and support for

families, and creating opportunities for families to be involved

in their child's education.

Preschool or early childhood programs provide a structured

and supportive environment for children to learn and grow.

Preschool teachers play an important role in supporting

children's development by providing a range of activities and

experiences that promote social, emotional, and cognitive growth.

In ECE, it is important to provide high-quality early childhood

programs that are responsive to the needs of individual children

and families. This includes providing a safe and nurturing

environment, promoting play-based learning, and creating

opportunities for children to develop relationships with peers

and adults.

Community also plays a key role in ECE. Local communities

provide a range of resources and supports that can impact

children's development and learning. For example, access to high-

quality healthcare, affordable housing, and safe outdoor spaces

can all contribute to a child's overall well-being. In ECE, it is

important to engage with local community organizations and

resources to create a supportive and inclusive environment for

children and families.

Overall, family, preschool, and community are all important

components of ECE. By working together and creating a supportive

network, we can help children develop the skills and knowledge

they need to succeed in school and beyond.

LESSON 5.1.C: PEER RELATIONSHIP

Peer relationships play an important role in early childhood

education (ECE) and are a key aspect of social and emotional

development in young children. Through interactions with peers,

children learn important social skills such as sharing,

cooperation, and communication. Peer relationships also provide

opportunities for children to develop a sense of empathy and

understanding of others.

In ECE, it is important to create opportunities for children to

interact with their peers in a safe and supportive environment.

This can include providing opportunities for free play and

socializing during class time, as well as structured activities

that promote cooperation and teamwork. Teachers can also help

facilitate positive peer interactions by modeling positive social

behaviors, providing guidance on conflict resolution, and

creating a culture of respect and kindness in the classroom.

It is important to recognize that peer relationships can be

complex, and that young children may need support in developing

positive social skills. Teachers can help by providing guidance

and support when conflicts arise, and by promoting a culture of

inclusivity and respect for all children.

LESSON 5.2: GETTING ALONG TOGETHER (WHO AM I? WHO ARE YOU?)

"Getting along together" is an important theme in early

childhood education, and involves helping children develop a

sense of self and an understanding of others. This includes

exploring concepts of identity and diversity, and creating a

culture of inclusivity and respect in the classroom.

In ECE, it is important to provide opportunities for

children to explore their own identities and those of others.

This can include activities that promote self-reflection and

self-expression, such as art projects, storytelling, or music

activities. Teachers can also help children learn about different

cultures and backgrounds through books, games, and other

activities that celebrate diversity.

In addition to exploring their own identities, children also

need opportunities to learn about others and develop empathy and

understanding. Teachers can help by providing opportunities for

children to interact with others who may be different from

themselves, such as through peer interactions, classroom

discussions, and multicultural activities.

By promoting a culture of inclusivity and respect in the

classroom, we can help children develop positive relationships

with others and build a strong sense of community. This includes

creating a safe and supportive environment where all children

feel valued and included, and where conflicts are resolved in a

respectful and constructive way.

Overall, "getting along together" in early childhood

education involves helping children develop a strong sense of

self and an understanding of others. By promoting diversity,

empathy, and inclusivity, we can help children develop positive

social and emotional skills that will serve them well throughout

their lives.
LESSON 5.3: SPECIAL CELEBRATIONS-PART OF LIFE
FAMILIES IN THE LIFE OF ECE SCHOOL

Families play an important role in the life of Early

Childhood Education (ECE) schools. Here are some ways in which

families can be involved:

Enrollment and Orientation: The first interaction families have

with ECE schools is during the enrollment process. This is an

opportunity for ECE schools to establish a relationship with

families, to get to know them, and to learn about their needs and

expectations. Orientation sessions can also be held to

familiarize families with the school's policies, curriculum, and

staff.

Communication: Communication is essential in maintaining a strong

partnership between families and ECE schools. ECE schools should

communicate regularly with families about their child's progress,

school events, and any other important information. Communication

can be through newsletters, emails, parent-teacher conferences,

and phone calls.

Volunteering: ECE schools often rely on the support of families

to provide additional resources and assistance. Families can

volunteer in classrooms, participate in field trips, and help

with fundraising events.

Curriculum: ECE schools can involve families in the curriculum by

providing resources and activities for families to do at home.

This can include reading materials, educational games, and

family-friendly events.
Parent Education: ECE schools can offer parent education sessions

on topics such as child development, behavior management, and

parenting skills. This can be a great opportunity for families to

learn new strategies and to connect with other parents.

Overall, involving families in the life of ECE schools can

enhance the learning experience for children and strengthen the

relationship between families and the school.

LESSON 5.4: BUILDING FOR FUTURE ACADEMIC COMPETENCIES FOR YOUNG

CHILDREN

Building future academic competencies for young children

involves providing them with a strong foundation in early

childhood education. Here are some ways in which ECE schools can

promote academic competencies in young children:

Literacy: ECE schools can promote literacy by providing a print-

rich environment, incorporating storytelling and reading into the

curriculum, and teaching phonics and sight words. Children can

also be encouraged to write and draw, which can help develop

their fine motor skills and creativity.

Math: Math skills can be developed through hands-on activities,

such as counting games, sorting and classifying objects, and

using manipulatives. ECE schools can also introduce basic

concepts of measurement, time, and spatial relationships.

Science: ECE schools can promote scientific inquiry by

encouraging children to ask questions, observe and experiment

with the natural world. Children can be introduced to simple

scientific concepts such as cause and effect, and the properties

of matter.
Social-emotional development: Social-emotional development is a

critical component of future academic success. ECE schools can

promote social-emotional development by creating a positive and

inclusive environment, promoting empathy and self-awareness, and

teaching conflict resolution skills.

Technology: As technology becomes more integrated into everyday

life, ECE schools can promote technology skills by introducing

children to age-appropriate computer programs, apps, and

educational software.

Overall, promoting academic competencies in young children

requires a holistic approach that recognizes the interdependence

of different areas of development. ECE schools can provide a

strong foundation for future academic success by promoting

literacy, math, science, social-emotional development, and

technology skills.