Our Teacher - Mrs. Brenda Knisley
Brenda Knisley has been teaching at Erindale Cooperative Preschool since September 1994. She completed her Bachelor of Education degree (with Areas of Specialization in Early Childhood Education and Reading) at the University of Saskatchewan. She has continued to stay on top of best practices for Early Childhood by attending annual conferences and workshops. Brenda is also involved with the Saskatoon Preschool Teachers Group as a means of being connected with other professionals in the city.
While Brenda realizes the importance of continuing to learn and interact with peers, it is her interaction with preschool children that brings her the greatest joy! Throughout her teaching career, Brenda has worked hard to ensure that each child will be “the best they can be” while attending her program. She believes in the value of play but also looks at various curriculums to enhance the social, emotional and academic learning that goes on in her classroom. Brenda has worked with many children over the years including those with typical abilities and those who have required additional support in various areas. She is an advocate for all children and is sensitive to the needs of each child while loving them unconditionally. Brenda values the relationship between herself and the children and their families.
Brenda truly loves her work with preschoolers and after 30 years of teaching, she continues to appreciate the opportunity to be at Erindale Cooperative Preschool!
Approach to Learning
Feeling safe and comfortable is vital for children to thrive and flourish, so we have routines in place that children quickly become accustomed to. Our goal is to make preschool a fun place to interact in a relaxed yet structured environment. We provide a wide range of experiences and opportunities which allow children the freedom to make choices for themselves which is key to healthy development.
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Play-Based Learning: Engaging activities that empower children to make choices, fostering social, emotional, and intellectual development. That leverages several programs including “Get Set for School” which is a program we value immensely, as well as “We Thinkers.”
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Skill Development: Fine motor skills are nurtured through coloring, painting, gluing, and cutting, while gross motor skills are enhanced through gym time and outdoor play. The children get many opportunities to work on their verbal and listening skills throughout the session including during “circle time”.
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Kindness and Community: Using the "Bucket Fillers" concept encourages children to do things that make others feel good and to embrace kindness in their daily interactions.
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Outdoor Learning & Exploration: We realize the value of being outside in the fresh air to experience nature and play so we try to get outside as much as we can – even in the winter!