The Value of Chatter in the Preschool Classroom
Have you ever been to a preschool classroom and heard nothing but the sound of crickets? If so, you probably left feeling like something was missing. That something is chatter—the sweet sound of little voices discussing their ideas and exploring the world around them. Chatter can be just as important for learning as books, pencils, and puzzles. Let’s take a look at why preschoolers need opportunities to engage in oral language.
Oral language is the foundation for learning. It helps little ones learn how to communicate with others, think critically, and understand new concepts. Through conversations with adults and peers, preschoolers have the opportunity to practice using new words while also expanding their knowledge base. They can learn about topics that interest them while also developing their ability to express themselves through speaking and listening.
Oral language also provides preschoolers with an outlet for creativity and problem-solving. By having conversations with others, they can explore relationships between different topics, share their ideas, ask questions, test out hypotheses—all without having to write down or draw out those ideas first! This type of creative thinking encourages kids to come up with unique solutions based on their own interests and experiences.
At the end of the day oral language helps foster development among preschoolers by laying the foundation for all things literacy related and by providing them with an avenue for expressing themselves in a meaningful way. As children talk through conflicts or brainstorm solutions together, they learn how to interact effectively with others and collaborate on projects as part of a group. Conversations give kids the chance to practice politeness and respect for one another, too – all skills that will serve them well throughout their lives, in the classroom and beyond!
Oral language is key for preschoolers throughout the United States because it provides them with essential life skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, creativity and social development! To ensure that your students are getting enough opportunities to engage in oral language activities each day make sure that you set aside time every day for talking!
Watch your preschoolers’ oral language flourish with GrapeSEED’s expertly created songs, stories, action activities, chants, big books and poems, and phonics components.