In developmentally appropriate classrooms, they become capable learners. They are not aimlessly wandering nor are they forced to sit quietly for long periods of time. Children are engaged in various activities throughout the day, including block building, pretend play, picture books, puzzles, and artwork. Teachers work with individual children, small groups, and the whole group at different times during the day. The classroom is decorated with children's original artwork, their own writing with invented spelling, and dictated stories.
Children learn numbers and the alphabet in the context of their everyday experiences.
The natural world of plants and animals, cooking, taking attendance or serving snacks are meaningful to children. Children work on projects and have long periods of time - at least one hour each day to play and explore. Filling out worksheets should not be their primary activity. Children have an opportunity to play outside every day that weather permits. This play should not be sacrificed for more instructional time.