High Scope: One Program Model (continued)

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High Scope stresses that children benefit most from more free play and least from formal lessons or structured therapy. Projects should be selected that provide different demands for "time-on-task" (how long a child participates in an activity) and that allow for different skill levels. The underlying goal of early childhood education should be to provide the same ladder, but allow children to be on different rungs. It is also best to have fewer periods and longer periods of activities, thereby reducing the number of changes or transitions for younger children, two to four years old, in particular. Children need advanced warning when it is time for transitions. Teachers should allow children to find their own way as much as possible and do no more redirecting than is necessary. It is particularly important for teachers to develop activities such as art and music. which are more likely to engage children. Children's choices should not be limited any more than is necessary.

Major Goals of the High Scope Method

The High Scope method is designed to:

1. Help children develop the ability to make choices;
2. Help children develop self-discipline by carrying out plans;
3. Develop children's ability to cooperate with others;
4. Increase children's knowledge about objects and skills;
5. Increase children's ability to express thoughts, ideas, and feelings;
6. Help children better understand verbal and nonverbal communication;
7. Develop children's ability to apply reasoning skills to a variety of situations;
8. Further develop children's creativity, initiative, and openness to learning.