- The overall goal for all visual displays in a preschool classroom is to teach the children to see cues and recognize what they mean. These environmental cues can be displayed on bulletin boards or on actual objects. For example, the section of the classroom that is for reading will display a picture of a book.
- Another way to focus children is to display pictures or symbols. These can be as simple as a list of colors and a corresponding item that is that color, or more complex like a daily job chart. These types of associations will both interest the children while allowing their minds to think and work through what they are seeing.
- A checklist also is an excellent way to get a child on task. Creating a list of tasks the children must complete before snack time will give them the concept of both goals and rewards. It is important to not make the checklists too complicated or you will lose the child’s attention.
- Adding imagery of popular characters while utilizing any of the previous strategies (or a combination) is also an excellent strategy. Children may be more likely to focus on a task or chart if their favorite cartoon character is holding up the sign or supporting the task. This is where it is important to not make the decorations distracting so the children cannot focus on anything the teacher is saying. This can be done by only including one or two images of the cartoon character that are not too large and that complement the overall focus of the board.
Environmental Cues
Pictures or Symbols
Checklist
Popular Characters
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