Play
Let's have fun!
Children derive immense joy and knowledge through play, a natural process where they explore, take risks, engage their imagination, and solve problems. Play serves as a conduit for developing crucial skills that support social, physical, and cognitive growth.
The Early Learning Framework from BC characterizes play-based learning as a context where children organize and make sense of their social worlds, actively engaging with people, objects, and representations.
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In play-based learning, we adapt teaching opportunities to align with the type of play children are immersed in. This dynamic interaction involves a constant flow where children lead, and teachers guide or nudge to extend their inquiry, understanding, or skills. Children take the lead, leading to beautiful, fun, engaging, and unexpected adventures.
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For play-based learning to thrive, we create an intentional environment that encourages child participation. This approach involves the following elements:
Self-direction: Children choose what and how they play, with adults supervising or suggesting ideas while leaving the rest to the child's decision.
Unstructured Exploration: Children have the freedom to explore, selecting objects or activities based on their interests.
Fun: Play must be enjoyable for the child, with no forced activities, ensuring a positive experience.
Process-oriented: Emphasizing the importance of the play process, devoid of specific end goals or correct responses.
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Benefits of Play-based Learning:
Language and Literacy Development: Play promotes a child's literacy and language development, fostering vocabulary growth and encouraging natural conversations.
Social and Emotional Skills: Play-based learning nurtures crucial social and emotional skills, including positive relationships with peers, cooperation, effective communication, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
Creativity and Imagination: Play is instrumental in developing imagination and creativity, helping children navigate both imagined and real-life scenarios.
Confidence and Positive Attitude toward Learning: Confidence is a key outcome of play-based learning, empowering children to try new things, take risks, and develop a positive attitude towards learning.
Motor Skills: Play contributes to the development of both fine and gross motor skills, enhancing balance, hand-eye coordination, and physical abilities.
By embracing play-based learning, children embark on a journey of holistic development, paving the way for a future characterized by creativity, resilience, and a positive approach to learning.
(The Science of Play Blog, Best Chance Australia, December 2020)
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