Preschoolers from a Morgantown daycare are learning through play as they hop, run, throw and laugh in the multipurpose room in the new CPASS building. While the little ones benefit from movement, PETE students gain valuable teaching experience through interaction with the children.
The partnership, created 20 years ago by former Ware Distinguished Professor Dr. Linda Carson, encourages physical activity for the 2-5 year-olds from Chyleen’s Daycare. Dr. Carson proposed the partnership to owner Chyleen Young to allow PETE students firsthand opportunities in working with young children. The program, formerly housed at E. Moore Hall, encourages activity and movement among the preschoolers.
The preschool teachers like the move to the new CPASS building since it allows them to watch the class from the observation area. Young believes that the program is an effective way for her preschoolers to learn through play.
“It’s great for PETE students because this is one program of many where we get to work with a different age group,” said Logan Bane, a junior PETE student. “We get a dose of each age and that helps us figure out our niche and where we’d like to get a job,” Bane added.
The two- and three-year-olds visit on Tuesday mornings, while the four- and five-year-olds meet on Thursdays. The older age group has structured play with a variety of stations to teach different skills. With the younger children, the PETE students aim to establish an environment for them to explore and be active.
For senior Alyson Snyder, a double major in PETE and music education, working with the younger group has been a beneficial experience. “At that age, they are just happy all the time,” she said. “For me, it’s the best part of the week.”
The children have access to a variety of play equipment to use. Upbeat music plays in the background as the children romp around the multipurpose gym with mini scooters, balls, wagons, hoola hoops, parachutes, and more. Four to five PETE students supervise and interact, encouraging movement.
“It’s cool to get the kids out of a routine and just have fun playing, which is so important. The kids have so much contagious enthusiasm which reaffirms my decision to be a PE teacher and makes me excited for the future,” said Brianne Connelly, a junior PETE major.
According to Carol Wilson, teacher at Chyleen’s Daycare, the children talk all week about the fun they had and are always asking when they get to go back.
“This is an awesome environment for our children and we feel very fortunate to be a part,” said Young.