Extensive research has been conducted on the benefits of play-based learning. If you are in the field of Early Childhood Education, then I am preaching to the choir. I recently responded to a post by Let the Children Play, which raised the question "they play, but do they write?" The author's resounding answer is "Yes!" A number of fantastic pictorial examples is provided of how students can practice writing through play.
Yet this post points to a larger issue for me. Although we as ECE educators understand the valuable learning that occurs during play experiences, most parents do not grasp it. Parents nowadays want to see tangible, teacher-directed curriculum. How can we change the mindset parents have towards play? What have you done to help families endorse play as a viable source for learning?
I agree, it is difficult to get parents to understand the benefits of play. I have shared information with parents about the skills children gain and can practice while playing. We often devoted a section in our newsletters to play and provided examples of play opportunities, as well as, the benefits to children. We also have given parents the invitation to visit the classroom and join in with their children during free play, so they can become a part of the play experience.
ReplyDeleteThank you for your comments, Pamela. I think your efforts to educate parents on the benefits of play are exceptional. I really like the idea of regular touchpoints through your newsletter. What kind of feedback do you receive after parents get a chance to visit during free play?
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