Just What Are "Stations" or "Centers"?

Every day in our classroom the children are given the opportunity to explore social skills, literacy or mathematics through a variety of activities and materials either independently or in small groups or with partners. In the beginning it may seem like mass confusion but soon enough the kids learn routines and expectations, we establish goals and they become quite independent.  Here are just a few pics from a few days this past week.  I will try to do this regularly so that you can catch a glimpse into our center time.