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Ask U-GRO: What is The Blended Model Curriculum?

Teacher with toddlers clapping on the floor
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Early Learning | September 16, 2016

We’re often asked by potential families about The Blended Model® early childhood curriculum. We’re very proud of this unique, proprietary learning platform that was created by our Curriculum Team. The Blended Model® offers opportunities for structured, standards based, age-appropriate learning experiences, as well as self-directed exploration and play.

Explore, Learn, Play and Grow

The Blended Model® early childhood curriculum is designed to balance teacher-directed learning with child-led discovery. While the teacher-directed activities will help develop essential skills like learning numbers and letters, child-led learning and discovery will build problem-solving and decision-making skills. Child-led learning also provides children with time to explore topics that interest them the most.

Blended Model diagram

A teacher directed activity can immediately lead into a child-led discovery, which allows for exploration, investigation and learning. This holistic approach will help your child build self-esteem and confidence which in turn builds future success in kindergarten and life!

Through teacher-directed activities in small and large groups, children will:

  • develop listening skills
  • learn to follow directions
  • develop social skills
  • build math, literacy and science skills
  • create and respond through art, drama, and music
  • strengthen physical skills through movement

Through child-led discovery, which includes independent play at learning centers throughout the classroom, children are able to:

  • develop problem solving skills
  • practice self-regulation skills
  • learn to work cooperatively
  • apply cognitive skills
  • make discoveries and learn through hands-on experiences

Benefits of The Blended Model®

One of the most valuable benefits of blended learning in a toddler or preschool early education curriculum is that it gives children opportunities to lead their own learning experiences. For example, a teacher-directed lesson on backyard exploration can expand into several different directions during independent play, based on the interests of each child.

  • A group of students may choose to further investigate the insects or rocks they find during exploration.
  • Some students may wish to create a collage using natural materials they collected outside.
  • Other children might immerse themselves in pretend play where they dress up and act out being explorers discovering a deserted island.

Additionally, blended learning allows students to develop healthy peer interactions and strengthens social-emotional connections.

If you’re interested in learning more about The Blended Model® and our unique approach to early childhood development, schedule a visit and speak with the Director at one of our U-GRO learning centers.

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