A chieves M ore. Planning for diverse age groups can seem like an overwhelming task because, developmentally, these children are at different ends of the spectrum. For instance, letting the older children stay at the center and dip candles while the younger children go on pony rides, does wonders for the self-esteem of children in each group. The two individual groups are more easily managed when separated. A successful program will have a balance of mixed group activities and activities that are designed for specific ages and skill levels.
Field trips are an important part of full day programming.
The best field trips are often the ones that are least expensive and closest to home with few restrictions. Then consider those same 50 children in a quiet, crowded museum gift shop. It's great to offer field trips, but it's important to think them through carefully and not go just anywhere to escape from your center. Older children enjoy long-term projects, and the younger ones get excited about the opportunity to explore new things. Basketry, cross-stitch, international cooking and auto mechanics are all clubs that makes a summer day breeze by.