Use these guiding questions to help facilitate discussion around this video series.
Principles of Ideal Learning in Action: A Look at Manny Cantor Center
This video offers an overview of the practices of the Manny Cantor Infant/Toddler and Two’s Program. The program is integrated to include children and families from a broad range of backgrounds and experiences. The learning environments that you will see are designed to foster inquiry, exploration and reflection. All activities are based on the belief that children learn best when engaged in work that is meaningful, ongoing, and authentic to their interests and values. Caregiving routines – such as feeding, diapering, napping – are seen as opportunities for building trust, confidence, and dialogue. Art and movement activities are daily experiences as are outings to the neighborhood playground and other places in the community. Within all the images of this video are embedded the principles of Ideal learning environments articulated by the Trust for Learning.
A Close-Up Look at the Ideal Learning Principles
Instruction is Personalized to Acknowledge Each Child’s Unique Development and Abilities
This video shows the different ways that educators provide care that is responsive to individual children’s learning and development.
Young Children and Adults Learn Through Relationships
Opportunities are provided throughout each day for educators to connect with the children in groups and individually. The neuroscience-documented principle of “serve and return” – the back-and-forth communication between a child and a responsive caregiver – is a regular and valued practice at the center that promotes cognitive as well as social/emotional development.
The Environment is Intentionally Designed to Facilitate Exploration, Independence, and Interaction
Take note in this video of the different centers/activities featured and how the layout varies for different age groups of children. Each invites children to develop a variety of skills, understandings, and dispositions.
Interview with School Director Sarah Toles
The philosophy and mission of the Infant/Toddler Program at the Manny Cantor Center is explained and elaborated on in this interview with school director Sarah Toles.
Interview with Two’s Teacher Luis Durango
In this video 2’s teacher Luis Durango speaks of th responsibilities and joys that early childhood educators embrace.
