What does "curriculum integration" in early childhood refer to?

Curriculum integration in early childhood education refers to the process of combining multiple subject areas into comprehensive learning experiences. This approach allows young children to make connections between different domains of knowledge, fostering a more holistic understanding of the world around them. By integrating subjects such as math, science, art, and literacy, educators can create engaging, meaningful activities that reflect real-life contexts, thereby enhancing children's learning and retention.

This strategy supports a developmentally appropriate approach where children are encouraged to explore concepts in a more interconnected manner. For instance, a theme such as "the garden" could incorporate lessons about plant life (science), counting seeds (math), creating garden-themed art (art), and reading stories about gardens (literacy). Such integration not only promotes critical thinking but also caters to different learning styles, making the educational experience richer and more enjoyable for young learners.