Creighton Kindergarten Class Receives New K.I.D. Zone

​Creighton lower elementary students have a new space for hands-on learning. The K.I.D (Knowledge, Imagination, Discovery) Zone is an extension of the Kindergarten classroom, providing more space for learning for the large incoming Kindergarten class.
The Zone has many areas which are available for all students in the lower elementary. 

At the Maker Space, students can pick ideas from the monthly calendar or from the task cards and blue prints to organize and begin creating projects such as a shelter to provide shade, a bridge, or a transportation vehicle. Younger students can use this as an exploration station.

The dramatic play area will change throughout the year and allows children to explore different career-related activities. Older students may work as employees, taking orders, making change, completing tasks and orders for the Sweet Sweet Ice Cream Shop that is currently set up. 

The Math Center includes numbered blocks that can be used for addition, subtraction, multiplication, patterning, fact families and measurement. A photo can be used by students to place geometric shapes together to create letters. 

A large foam state puzzle, globe puzzle and continent puzzle make up the geography center for exploring the states and continents. 
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Three computers and iPads are available for learning how to code. A bumble bee can be programed to do various things. LEGO sets are also available for coding. Students can also use the LEGO station to complete challenge cards, such as ‘build something you use everyday’, and ‘build a wagon that can carry a toy’. The construction area will also allow for the creation and manipulation of three-dimensional objects. 

A writing and language arts area, as well as an art and sensory area are available.
Teachers of lower elementary classes will select a time to visit the zone. A pair of solid french doors can be closed to separate the Kindergarten room from the K.I.D. Zone.

“A child’s learning foundation is built through the experiences and activities in which they engage. At Creighton Elementary, we are taking learning one step further, providing an area which allows students to grow and learn and expand upon their knowledge,” said Creighton Elementary Kindergarten teacher, LaDonna Hazen. 

An open house is scheduled on Aug. 14 from 3 to 4 p.m. Parents and family members are encouraged to stop and tour the K.I.D. Zone.