On Jan. 20, Ms. Mantovi’s Child Psychology and Development class visited The Kiddie Academy of Floral Park as part of a culminating project. Upon arrival, the students were able to meet with center director Rachel Elias. Ms. Elias gave a presentation, including the ages and number of children enrolled, examples of lessons provided to each group, and the structure of a typical day within the center. After the presentation, the students were able to engage in a Q&A with the director, including the qualifications and application process for new hires.
Students were then taken on a tour of Kiddie Academy and had the opportunity to see real-time caretaking and education taking place. The final hour of the trip was dedicated to the students engaging in hands-on experience with children. The students were separated into small groups and placed into the classrooms. Each group was able to experience working with a lower and upper age class.
The FACS department strives to connect students with real-life applications of coursework. Throughout the semester, students learned about the social, emotional and physical development of children. Students applied their knowledge of social emotional learning, teaching through play, and working with children with special needs. This background knowledge provided students the skills necessary to appropriately interact with both teachers and students.
The field trip left off with job placement opportunities for our students. Several of the students are interested in applying and taking the next steps of creating a resume and filling out the employment application. We will be following up regarding a spring 2023 semester visit.
