Ridgefield High School students in the Child Development I course recently visited the Ridgefield Early Learning Center (ELC) for a day of hands-on learning and connection with local preschoolers.
Students completed a children’s book study as part of their class, then designed hands-on activities to pair with their chosen books. During their ELC visit, they observed classrooms in action, assisted teachers, and worked directly with children, according to a news release from the Ridgefield School District.
“This visit was a wonderful way for students to apply what they’ve been learning in class,” Child Development teacher Anne Simms said in the news release. “They got to see firsthand how play and exploration help children learn and grow. Many of them had those lightbulb moments—realizing that learning through play doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful.”
The school district reintroduced the Child Development program this school year, after it had been on pause since 2020. The course uses project-based learning to help students explore early childhood education, build practical teaching skills, and bolster interest in education careers.
“It helps you see the real side of working with young children,” said Child Development I student Ginger Gorycki. “I personally loved the experience and am now thinking about working in a preschool as a special education teacher or speech pathologist someday.”
The visit also highlighted the partnership between Ridgefield High School and the district’s early learning programs.
“What a joy to have our Spuds! What an amazing group of students,” said ELC Lead Preschool Teacher Jody Harris. “They brought so much joy to our classroom—engaging with the children and giving them opportunities to learn from a different lens.”
