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: : THE EARLY YEARS OF LEARNING : :

In recent years, researchers have discovered what early childhood educators have known for a long time…that the early years of life are the most critical for learning.  We now know that brain development is directly related to early experience, and we understand that any learning which is sensory in nature promotes optimal growth and development.  SEEC recognizes this critical period for young children and emphasizes interactive, multi-sensory learning in everyday activities.  SEEC’s teachers encourage exploration and discovery, placing objects and works of art at the center of a child’s day.  Integrating the rich resources of the community into the curriculum enhances learning.

Download the "Looking At Art with Toddlers" Article

Visit the National Endowment for the Arts web site at: http://www.arts.gov:591/pub/artslearning.html#top to request a copy of:

Imagine! Introducing Your Child to the Arts
Published by the National Endowment for the Arts, 2004. This 1997 NEA publication revises and updates the previous edition's material on introducing children to the arts. An excellent resource for parents and teachers, the publication includes activities and suggestions in literature, dance, music, theater, visual arts, folk arts, and media arts aimed specifically at children ages 3-8 years old.  Includes pull-out guide of arts activities. 68 pp.  Edited by Dr. Sharon Shaffer.


Click on image for a larger view

SEEC's Educational Outreach Program
View and download a sample lesson plan from SEEC's museum education team.

Download the "Geometric Mouse" Lesson Plan

 

: : ADDITIONAL RESOURCES : :

 

Smithsonian Center for Education and Museum Studies
Visit www.smithsonianeducation.org for education resources for educators, parents and students. Be sure to check out the Spring issue of Smithsonian in Your Classroom, featuring a collaboration with SEEC!

National Association for the Education of Young Children
www.naeyc.org

Arts Education Partnership
www.aep-arts.org

National Art Education Association
www.naea-reston.org

National Endowment for the Arts
www.arts.gov

National Building Museum
www.nbm.org

Corcoran Gallery of Art
www.corcoran.org

National Gallery of Art
www.nga.gov

   

Links to The Smithsonian Web Site
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