How many of you have really thought about it? This society is so focused on getting children to read and write at 3 and 4 that we forget that children actually LEARN major skills through play and exploration. They learn math, pre-reading, science, social emotional skills and so much more. They increase their communication skills in a real life way.
I have often had discussions with my parents and friends about what playing with certain things can actually teach their child. Giving a workbook at the age of 3 is not NEARLY as effective as going on a scavenger hunt or making a collage or building something or sorting or even playing school with their friends. The children are so much more engaged when they get to use their WHOLE body. They absorb when they get to play, not just PRODUCE.
A big motto in my classrooms over the last five years has been PROCESS not PRODUCT. The children can tell you how they did something and why it was or was not successful. Sometimes this is messy, but in the end it is worth it.
Many have seen me post this quote from Albert Einstein, I even have a tshirt with the quote. It really sums up a lot of what we need to remember. Imagination and dreams give the children something to strive for, something to try out and explore.
Want to read some articles?
http://everydaylife.globalpost.com/play-important-early-childhood-development-4435.html
http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/119/1/182.full
Ok, I am off my soapbox. Please, let your child play and play with your child!
Tanya
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