ABSTRACT

What does a museum do with a kindergartner who walks through the door? The growth of interest in young children learning in museums has joined the national conversation on early childhood education. Written by Sharon Shaffer, the founding Executive Director of the innovative Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center, this is the first book for museum professionals as well as students offering guidance on planning programming for young children.This groundbreaking book:-Explains the various ways in which children learn-Shows how to use this knowledge to design effective programs using a variety of teaching models-Includes examples of successful programs, tested activities, and a set of best practices

part I|54 pages

Understanding the Audience of Young Children in Museums, Past and Present

part II|62 pages

Shaping Programs that Engage Children in Constructing Meaning

part III|24 pages

Making a Difference: The Promise of the Future