When it comes to learning in early childhood, often we are bombarded by the media into believing thi...

1. Benefits of Holistic Learning in Early Childhood - Glendale
Early Childhood Education
When it comes to learning in early childhood, often we are bombarded by the media into believing
this must come in the form of learning numbers, shapes and colors. Though these skills are
important, such understandings are best uncovered through natural discoveries made by the child
within her everyday interactions. It has been proven that children learn best through hands-on
experiences which offer the ability to foster a child's natural motivations to investigate and discovery
the world around them based on their interests. Yet many still ask, "How can I be sure she is
building skills in all areas of development?
Holistic, meaning the consideration of the whole part as opposed to the analysis of each part, can be
interpreted within the learning environment as learning which considers the "whole" child. The
"whole child" perspective includes the consideration of all developmental areas to be engaged within
each interaction and experience provided for the child. Ron Miller states "Holistic education aims to
call forth from people an intrinsic reverence for life and a passionate love of learning. This is done,
not through an academic "curriculum" that condenses the world into instructional packages, but
through direct engagement with the environment. Holistic education nurtures a sense of wonder"
(2000) Holistic education takes into account six major considerations.
To build knowledge and deeper understanding about themselves as individuals
To build healthy relationships and pro-social behavior
To build upon social emotional development
To promote Resiliency
To see beauty and possess the ability to see "awe" through experiences which transcendence, and
appreciate some sense of "truths."
When children learn they do not learn in pieces. The young child does not say, "Today I am going to
be using critical thinking skills with the building blocks and tomorrow I am going to be expanding on
my language as I sing finger play songs". When children engage with the environment as well as
with peers and adults around them, they learn in holistic ways, through their discoveries which lead
to deeper understandings about themselves and others, in all areas of development. These deeper
understandings of the world come from all areas within the child's life, including materials she
engages with, her home culture and relationships, her community including schools, churches and
community recreation programs, as well as media influences. Young children do not view learning
and discovery in separate parts, but experience life and the skills this brings with it throughout each
and every interaction in which they encounter.
Teachers and parents must be conscientious of this when planning experiences and engaging with
children. The creation of opportunities for learning through new and various ways while engaging
with materials and the environment, adults must take into account key questions vital in the process
of evaluating programs and interactions with children.
Who is the child? (Consider learning style, temperament, gender, and family context)

2. What is the child's community (If the adult is not apart of the family, this might take asking parents
and caregivers about community events and places they come in contact with)
What are the child's interest (This requires time to observe and reflect on the interactions the child
engages in)
These questions are used to be certain all areas within the child's context of learning are being met.
By planning for holistic means of engagement, parents and teachers allow the child to feel confident,
and provide for the ability to master skills, as the "pressure" to attain specific outcomes are
diminished. Through the use of open ended materials, parents and teachers offer the child the
opportunity to explore, to ask, to wonder and grow with each and every experience.
Leading high quality organizations and early childhood programs have noted the importance within
the holistic approach to learning. Miller notes "The art of holistic education lies in its responsiveness
to the diverse learning styles and needs of evolving human beings" (2000). Through consideration of
the cultural diversity present within this country, as well as the unique learning styles and interests
of the young children in your life, consider engaging not in parts or lessons but through the image of
the "whole child". By doing so you honor the child for who they are and what they have to offer each
interaction You honor their unique individuality but most importantly, you honor their desire to feel
accepted and included. These positive experiences within learning will transcend to all later
learning, allowing for confidence to be build through the deeper understanding of who they are and
all that they have to offer others throughout their lives.
Links to Holistic Organizations:
AERO: Alternative Education Resource Organization
AllPIE: Alliance for Parental Involvement in Education
Association of Waldorf Schools of North America
Down to Earth Books
Education in Search of Spirit
EnCompass: Center for Natural Learning Rhythms
Folk Education Association of America (FEAA)
Great Ideas in Education
Home Education Magazine
John Dewey Project on Progressive Education
Montessori Foundation
Rethinking Schools
Schools Demonstrating Elements of Holistic Education in California:

3. Play Mountain Place (Los Angeles, California, USA)
Venice Hill School (Visalia, California, USA)
References
Miller, Ron. (2000). A brief introduction to holistic education.
http://www.infed.org/biblio/holisticeducation.htm
National Association for the Education of Young Children http://www.naeyc.org/
Holisitc Education Inc. http://holistic-education.net/
http://www.examiner.com/article/benefits-of-holistic-learning-early-childhood