Beginning a new preschool year with the things we “can” do!

Each new school year, I like to kick off the year with the focus of helping my students realize the many things they “can” do in preschool. I also like to throw a few real cans into each of my centers so we will stay focused on a can-do attitude all through out the week…

The things we "can" do in preschool

Of course, there are all kinds of things we can do in preschool but before I show you some of the things we did with cans, keep in mind that even without using cans it is possible to have a very fun “I Can” week at preschool.  The objective is to simply have lots of opportunities for play out for the children to explore so that they will get to know the classroom and be excited about coming to preschool. Also keep in mind that none of our cans have sharp edges that you see in these photos. We used a can opener that doesn’t leave sharp edges and filed down any that we were concerned about. I started collecting my cans during the summer so they will be ready for use during our first week of school…

The things we "can" do in preschool

In both our outdoor and indoor classrooms we have cans set out with things to do like explore pouring in the water table…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can play in our sand table…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can play with magnets…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can go on a nature hike…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can collect things from nature…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can watch bugs crawl around…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can go inside and glue…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can paint…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can play with play dough…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can play with blocks…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can find our own cubbies and put our things away…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can make new friends…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can sing and talk together…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can learn together…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can paint on the easel…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And we can write with chalk…

The things we "can" do in preschool

And the list goes on! As you can see, there are many things we Can do in preschool and I bet there are many things your students can do in your preschool too! If you have had your first week, I would love to hear all about it. Just leave a comment below!

The things we "can" do in preschool

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Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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