Creating innovative classes for preschool teachers

We all know the challenge: finding ways to teach while still having fun can be tough. But using innovative methods can truly make a difference, especially with young students. It's essential to motivate them and boost their learning through play. The good news is that there are plenty of tools we can use in the preschool environment today. Project-based learning, non-formal education, outdoor activities, and creative games are just a few of the many options that we have!

​A new edition of the course “Innovative teaching methods for preschool teachers” took place in Palermo from 02/03/2025 to 08/03/2024. The participants came from Panevėžio lopšelis- darželis ,,Taika" in Lithuania with Inga Sivinskienė, Neringa Stočkienė and Irena Meiduvienė and from Måsan barnehage in Norway with Lillian Kjelsberg, Sissel Falk-Birkeland and Ann-Kristin Møllerstuen Rødseth.

​An Erasmus experience wouldn’t be complete without exchanging cultures and best practices. That’s why we began our training with a presentation of all the schools, following an overview of the Italian preschool system. The participants shared images, videos, and their best practices with the group.

​The first topic we explored was innovation in the preschool system. We began by discussing social-emotional learning, using Kolb’s experiential learning cycle as a framework. This approach helps students move from reflection to conceptualization and application, giving them an active role in the learning process. Of course, we also took part in as many games and activities as possible. The teachers had to showcase their drawing, dancing, and singing talents for the rest of the group! ;)

​To not only talk about Preschool Education inside the walls of the classroom, we also visited two schools in Palermo: Eco Scuola Montessori and Istituto Minutoli during the week, where we were also shown their approach of Outdoor Education. Through Outdoor Education the teachers can achieve, on one hand, an increase in motivation and creativity; on the other, the improvement of the psychophysical well-being thanks to the contact with nature and the consequent reduction of the stress.  

​Moreover, we discussed Project Based Learning by looking at examples, different features and ways to introduce it in the classroom. This innovative method that allows students to delve into content in a more direct and meaningful way, starts from a topic question and tries to investigate real world issues. Working in a team and using their creativity can help our youngest students to discover a way to deal with real world problems, learning strategically and searching for the answers from the start, with the help of the teacher. With that knowledge the participants analysed the principles of PBL and found ways to apply it in their classes.

​By the last day, a lot of challenges “forced” the participants to think out of the box and made them explore the power of creativity. After that it was very hard to say goodbye. However, the participants were also looking forward to applying all the ideas that emerged during the course in their own classes at home. Another great week of inspiration was over, but only to be continued back in their countries.

Discover more about this course here.
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