Emphasize the importance of play and learning from infancy through the primary grades
Discover ways to provide a strong curricular approach for young children’s learning while endorsing a playful pedagogy. The articles in this collection emphasize using play to promote children’s skills in problem solving, decision making, and self-regulation; engaging diverse learners in play activities; and partnering with families to further children’s playful learning. Specific topics include ways educators can:
- Support infants’ and toddlers’ active explorations with sensory activities and unique materials
- Provide opportunities for children to engage in active, physical play
- Guide children’s learning through art play
- Communicate to others the importance and value of play for children from birth through third grade
This book is part of NAEYC’s best-selling Spotlight series―great resources for the college classroom and for professional development.
Price: $25.00
Pages: 136
Publisher: National Association for the Education of Young Children
Imprint: The National Association for the Education of Young Children
Series: Spotlight on Young Children series
Publication Date:
28 February 2015
Trim Size: 10.88 X 8.38 in
ISBN: 9781938113147
Format: Paperback
BISACs:
EDUCATION / Early Childhood (incl. Preschool & Kindergarten), Pre-school & kindergarten, EDUCATION / Teaching Methods & Materials / General, EDUCATION / Teaching Methods & Materials / Science & Technology, EDUCATION / Curricula, Teaching skills & techniques, Teaching of a specific subject, Curriculum planning & development
"Each article in this rich publication broadens and sometimes challenges readers’ ideas of what quality play experiences and environments provide for young children. This volume is a useful resource for those who are engaged with young children in playful learning environments, from classrooms to homes, libraries, museums, and more. The memos that accompany each article add meaningful commentary and urge all of us to become play advocates for children." — Jeri Robinson, Vice President, Early Childhood Initiatives, Boston Children’s Museum
Holly Bohart is senior editor in Books and Related Resources at NAEYC. She formerly taught in special education early childhood programs.
Kathy Charner is editor in chief of NAEYC’s Books and Related Resources department, with responsibility for the content, management, publication, and general excellence of the books and brochures published by NAEYC. Before joining NAEYC, Kathy was editor in chief at Gryphon House for more than 20 years.
Derry Koralek, chief publishing officer of NAEYC, oversees the development of all print and digital publishing, including books, brochures, periodicals, professional development guides, posters, and websites for educators and families. Derry is editor in chief of Young Children and TYC—Teaching Young Children.
Introduction
Infants and Toddlers. Let’s Get Messy! Learning Through Art and Sensory Play Toddlers. Lively Minds at Play: Planning Environments and Materials That Support the Way Young Children Learn
Preschool. Assessing and Scaffolding Make-Believe Play
Preschool. “Where Do the Bears Go?” The Value of Child-Directed Play
Preschool. Flying Over the School: Superhero Play— Friend or Foe?
Preschool. “Todos Vamos a Jugar, Even the Teachers”— Everyone Playing Together
Preschool. Which Toys Promote High-Quality Play? Reflections on the Five-Year Anniversary of the TIMPANI Study
Preschool Through Third Grade. Art Play: Stories of Engaging Families, Inspiring Learning, and Exploring Emotions
Kindergarten Through Third Grade. Holding on to Play: Reflecting on Experiences as a Playful K–3 Teacher
Kindergarten Through Third Grade. Play for All Children: Access to Quality Play Experiences as a Social Justice Issue
Infants Through Third Grade. Big Body Play: Understanding and Supporting It
Resources
Reflecting, Discussing, and Exploring: Questions and Follow-Up Activities
