You've heard it many times; Children learn through play. But what does that really mean? It doesn't look like learning, so sometimes parents worry because we are not "teaching" the children the skills they need to be ready for school.

 

Parents want what's best for their kids. They want us to teach their children their ABCs, numbers and colors and how to read. I would argue though, that our role is actually not to teach children, but to facilitate and support the learning that comes naturally when we provide them with safe and loving, developmentally appropriate environments where they were free to play, explore and experiment.

 

We instinctively know this, but because many policy makers have not studied or worked with children, they push "school readiness" in strictly academic terms, insisting that we drill young children on their ABCs and teach them to sit still in a desk all day. We often begin to doubt what we know to be true and have a hard time articulating to parents what their children are learning in our programs while they are building with blocks, measuring sand and water, or playing dress-up.

 

I want to give providers (and parents!) a place where they can share developmentally appropriate ideas and activities and, talk about how these activities promote learning. I believe that talking about it will provide the practice it takes to be comfortable articulating to parents that indeed, their child is learning. And, we can all learn from each other!

 

I invite you to share your favorite activities with everyone, and pick up some ideas from other Providers!