Learning through play sounds like a fun idea invented by a child hoping to avoid memorization and quizzes and a lifetime of traditional learning. It’s not that at all. Learning through play is a proven strategy and a valuable component of our day care curriculum. It helps children build a foundation for a lifetime of learning.
Play is a Powerful Learning Tool
Learning through play has been analyzed by educational experts, scientists, and lifelong educators. And it works. In the study, “Learning Through Play, a Review of the Evidence,” the Lego Foundation examined the learning through play concept. Their research determined that playful childhood activities are interconnected with other learning experiences and they lead to further learning.
The study found that when a child learns to explore, interact and communicate with others while playing, they develop the flexibility to learn new skills. Whether children are working together with building blocks or playing pretend family, they are negotiating roles, building skills, and collaborating.
“The Power of Play,” a study authored by the Minnesota Children’s Museum explained that play is “…simple yet profound…” They determined that children around the world were compelled to play even when they had no toys. The researchers concluded that play was important as it helped children develop cognitive, emotional, social, and physical skills. They found it disheartening that schools are cutting back on childhood playtime in favor of standardized test preparation.
Learning Through Play at TLC
At The Learning Center, play is a critical element of our day care curriculum. We provide developmentally appropriate play, exploration, and adventures that engage each child’s cooperation and imagination. Play helps us provide diverse learning experiences for our youngest students to our oldest.
The TLC Day Care Curriculum
We combine learning through play opportunities with art, music, and hands-on experiences. These activities are all a part of a curriculum that’s designed to educate the whole child. Our curriculum concentrates on these critical progressions:
- Social/Emotional
- Motor Development
- Cognitive
- Language/Literacy
Our teachers follow a curriculum that provides activities and learning experiences for children at all developmental levels.
- Infant Care: Interaction, movement, exploration, communication, and activities geared to help infants meet milestones
- Toddlers: Sharing, singing, creating, imagining, and activities to promote growth and development
- Pre-School: Cooperation, writing, math, numbers, and kindergarten preparation
- Kindergarten: Crafts, music, activities, adventures, and after school activities
- School-Age: Homework, arts & crafts, outdoor play, activities to keep children entertained and busy after school
- Summer camp: Swimming, field trips, and activities to keep children engaged over the summer.
Schedule a Tour
For more information about learning through play and our child-focused curriculum, complete our contact form to schedule a tour or call us at one of the locations listed on our Contact Page.