“I like a teacher who gives you something to take home to think about besides homework.”
– Lily Tomlin
One of the things I loved most about the kids’ preschool was its emphasis on the value of learning through play. Sure, they had circle time and calendar time, but their primary focus was hands on activities that engaged every child. A morning filled with active learning that was so exciting the kids never felt like they were being schooled.
Kindergarden was a rude awakening for us – nonstop schedule from day’s start to final bell, nightly homework – even their snacks were eaten while working. I thought that was sad, but then I met someone whose preschool child was sitting at a desk and bringing home worksheets. Preschool!
The best teachers inspire. Motivate. Light the spark of curiosity that drives a child to look further, discover more. That doesn’t typically involve worksheets; then again, the best teachers already know that.
Riddle from the Middle 
I think it’s not the teachers’ choice. Today most teachers are forced to make kids work hard because it’s an essential part of their curriculum. They just want to appear more professional and resourceful.
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Definitely. Every kindergarten teacher I’ve spoken to has been very clearly in the “they need less busywork” camp. They’re very constrained by the grade level demands…
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My kids had a lot of play, play, and more play time in KG and grade 1. Very thankful for the school system up here!
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That’s wonderful!! They’ve definitely shifted to academic prep here, even in the earliest grades.
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Kindergarten makes me sad now. I’m glad your kids got the real deal!
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Mine had a really great preschool experience, but kindergarten was a low point. T-man’s teacher was old school (she’d been teaching for 30 years or so) and totally commiserated with me when I’d talk to her about what their day had turned into. She hated the work-work-work mode as much as I did.
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