Research tells us that young children learn best from activities that are embedded into play and routines. However, in a time of increased emphasis on “school readiness”, play in early childhood settings is more and more pushed to the side and replaced with “academic” activities such as worksheets that focus on the ABC’s and 123’s. But did you know that Cognitive Development–the development of our thinking skills–involves so much more than these pre-academic skills? And that ALL cognitive skills, including these pre-academic skills, are best learned through play? This session will introduce participants to the varied thinking skills that are necessary for infant, toddler, and preschool development, as well as ways that these skills can be facilitated through PLAY! Come for an interactive, hands-on learning opportunity that will get you thinking!
This course is appropriate for all early care and education professionals.
This course is the same content as the Academic AND Play-Based: Building Cognitive Skills Through Play in-person training.
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