As early childhood educators, we know how important play is for a growing and developing child. Almost everything a child does, sees, hears, etc. is interpreted by the child and learned in some way

Learning Goal: I’m working on a writing multi-part question and need an explanation and answer to help me learn.

Background

As early childhood educators, we know how important play is for a growing and developing child. Almost everything a child does, sees, hears, etc. is interpreted by the child and learned in some way. As early childhood educators, we do our best to foster learning, growth, and development within each child. We understand the importance of play and all that is involved. However, the same cannot always be said for some parents and other adults. They may not fully understand how play can help foster learning in young children. Many of you have heard parents say, “Why is my child playing all the time? When will she learn something?”. As early childhood educators, we must be able to explain to parents and care takers the importance of play and all that is occurring during a child’s play. Parents and family members must understand what developmentally appropriate play is, and what their child is learning through their play. As early childhood educators, we must be prepared to answer any parents question concerning what a child is learning via their play.

Initial Post

In your initial post, apply components of developmentally appropriate play to needs for early childhood environments.

• Select one activity area and create a developmentally appropriate play experience between two or three children. Make sure to use language that a parent will be able to understand.
• Explain what a child is developing and learning through his or her play.
• Explain what makes this activity developmentally appropriate.

Reply Post

In your reply post, write a reflection on at least one other student’s initial post.

• For this post, take on the role of a resistant parent who opposes all of the playing around with the children. This parent only sees play going on and does not understand what the child is learning.
• Take the parent’s perspective and share what you see happening in the classroom. Make sure to post your reply no later than Saturday at midnight.