Brain Building : Research Supports a “ Playful ” Approach to Preschool / Kindergarten Learning
by Hema Walker , Mount Madonna School
Imagination is more important than knowledge . For knowledge is limited to all we now know and understand , while imagination embraces the entire world , and all there ever will be to know and understand .
– Albert Einstein
Everyone knows that young children love to play , but the latest in brain research clearly shows that children need to play in order to develop the skills that are required for success in academics and into adulthood . This knowledge should guide the heart of programs for young children by providing an engaging , creative , hands-on curriculum in a rich environment with plenty of free play time to explore the outdoors and develop friendship skills .
In the Mount Madonna School ( MMS ) preschool and kindergarten programs , teachers consider play to be an essential component and balance to the age-appropriate academic curriculum . Our approach to teaching the ABCs and 123s incorporates movement , song , storytelling , art and outdoor exploration , thus providing meaningful experiences that satisfy a young child ’ s curiosity and need to engage playfully in their learning explorations . While reading readiness and number sense skills are inherent in our activities throughout the day ,
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