Page 35 - Education February 2024
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The Role of Manipulatives in Learning:
        •  For Parents: Understanding
           how manipulatives convert
           abstract knowledge into concrete
           understanding is crucial when choosing
           a school. Look for classrooms where
           these tools are used effectively.
        •  For Teachers: In-depth knowledge of
           manipulatives enhances a learner’s
           grasp of new concepts. Your expertise
           is key to their understanding.


        Importance of Manipulatives in the
        Classroom:
        1.  They help learners transform abstract
           concepts into concrete information.
        2.  Encourage exploration, boosting
           confidence and freedom in learning.
        3.  Create a fun and engaging learning
           experience.                       practical application is key to imparting   learner engaged in threading games could
        4.  Enable academic engagement without   knowledge effectively in a Foundation   be a future seamstress; one who enjoys
           pressure or burden.               Phase classroom.                   sharing news might become a news anchor.
        5.  Serve as valuable tools for problem-                                Your role is to identify and cultivate these
           solving at various levels.        Inspiring a Limitless Mindset:     emerging talents.
                                             Believe that the impossible is nothing.
        Utilising Manipulatives Effectively:  Encourage each learner to reach for   Creating an Inviting Classroom
        Understanding the Daily Programme and   the stars and never limit themselves or   Environment:
        its activities allows for the selection of   their potential. Recognise and nurture   Craft a classroom atmosphere that is fun,
        the most relevant manipulatives. This   each child’s unique talents and skills. A   exciting, and conducive to learning, often
                                                                                without the child even realising they are
                                                                                learning. Your classroom should be visually
                                                                                appealing and welcoming, fostering trust
                                                                                and a positive learning environment.

                                                                                The Three E’s of Effective Teaching:
                                                                                1.  Establish: Build trusting relationships
                                                                                   with learners. A safe and secure
                                                                                   environment is foundational for effective
                                                                                   learning.
                                                                                2.  Embrace: Accept each learner as they
                                                                                   are. Understanding each child holistically
                                                                                   builds a strong teacher-learner
                                                                                   relationship based on experience and
                                                                                   trust.
                                                                                3.  Empower: Empower learners daily.
                                                                                   Praise and recognition boost confidence
                                                                                   and can positively impact their overall
                                                                                   development.

                                                                                Conclusion
                                                                                Teaching is a journey of enrichment and
                                                                                milestones. Cherish each experience and
                                                                                the impact you have on every young heart.
                                                                                Strive to be an educator who believes
                                                                                in limitless potential and greatness.
                                                                                Remember, if nothing else, be great in every
                                                                                endeavor, both as a teacher and a parent in
                                                                                guiding your child’s educational journey.


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