When Planning Fails, Children Struggle: Why Needs and Interests Matter in Early Childhood with Auntie Nats

In early childhood classrooms, every block we stack, every story we read, and every song we sing has a bigger purpose than simply filling time. These activities are the building blocks of a child’s development. Yet, too often, activities are planned without careful consideration of what children actually need or what truly captures their interests. The result? Missed opportunities, frustrated learners, and wasted potential.

The Risk of Poor Planning

When planned activities are not consistent with children’s developmental needs and interests, the consequences show up quickly:

• Children lose interest and become disengaged.

• Behavioural challenges increase as frustration sets in.

• Self-esteem suffers when tasks are too difficult or irrelevant.

• Key developmental milestones may be delayed.

• Inclusion suffers, leaving some children behind.

It’s a sobering reminder that poor planning does more harm than good. A classroom that ignores children’s voices is a classroom that risks losing their hearts.

The Power of Interest-Led, Needs-Based Planning

The flip side is far more hopeful. When activities align with children’s unique needs and passions, classrooms come alive. Children are motivated, behaviour improves, and learning outcomes skyrocket. Teachers find joy in guiding rather than controlling, and parents see growth reflected at home.

Benefits include:

• Stronger focus and engagement.

• Confidence and independence blossoming in each child.

• Social interaction that builds friendship and empathy.

• Efficient use of resources with maximum impact.

• Holistic development that nurtures body, mind, and spirit.

A Call to Teachers and Caregivers

As educators, we are called to do more than prepare lesson plans. We are called to prepare children for life. That means looking at each child, not as a statistic, but as an individual with potential, purpose, and God-given gifts.

Proverbs 22:6 reminds us: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Notice the phrase “in the way he should go.” It means we must take into account a child’s unique path, rather than forcing

them into someone else’s.

Practical Tips for Needs- and Interest-Based Planning

1. Observe children closely during free play. Their choices reveal their passions.

2. Consult with parents. They know their children’s needs beyond the classroom.

3. Adapt activities for different learning styles and abilities.

4. Offer variety — music, movement, storytelling, building, and role play.

5. Reflect often. Ask: Did this activity meet the developmental goals? Did the children enjoy it?

Final Thought

Planning, implementing, and evaluating activities is not just a teaching requirement; it’s an act of love. When we align activities with children’s needs and interests, we do more than teach — we inspire. We give children the tools to explore, the courage to try, and the joy of discovery. That is the true heart of early childhood education.