Child-led learning and adult-directed focused learning are two educational practices that are compatible because they both focus on helping kids learn through play, according to Dr. Sarah Aiono, an international educator [8c586e98]. Teachers who use play in their classrooms are using a complex way of teaching, as they juggle many students who want to do different things. Child-led learning is not the absence of teaching; teachers who promote learning through play are working hard to respond to kids' learning and provide them with knowledge, skills, and the ability to navigate their play space [8c586e98].
Play has a profound impact on brain development. It changes neurons and grows executive functioning skills, develops physical strength and resilience, builds emotional memories and social agility, and creates new neurons after 30 minutes of play. Play also encourages physical activities that develop balance, coordination, and pre-literacy skills. Teachers should have a variety of resources, including 'junk,' in their classrooms to offer kids more possibilities for creativity. Play is practice for real life and helps develop executive functioning skills, which are crucial for learning and managing life [8c586e98].
There are different forms of creativity that play fosters. There is 'big C' creativity, like Vincent Van Gogh or Elon Musk, and 'little C' creativity, which involves finding different uses for everyday items. Play and imagination are important for developing stronger brain connections in kids [8c586e98].
Child-led, play-focused learning provides numerous benefits for children's education. It allows them to learn through hands-on experiences, promotes problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and encourages creativity and imagination. By incorporating play into the classroom, teachers can create an engaging and dynamic learning environment that caters to the individual needs and interests of each student. Additionally, play-based learning helps children develop important social and emotional skills, such as cooperation, communication, and empathy. It also fosters a love for learning and promotes a positive attitude towards education [8c586e98].
Incorporating play into the classroom requires teachers to be flexible and responsive to children's interests and needs. They must provide a variety of materials and resources that encourage open-ended play and allow for exploration and experimentation. By creating a safe and supportive environment, teachers can empower children to take ownership of their learning and develop a sense of agency. This approach to education recognizes the value of play in children's development and emphasizes the importance of holistic learning experiences that nurture their cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth [8c586e98].
Collaborative for Children, a Houston-based nonprofit organization, is utilizing robotics and AI to improve early childhood education and provide access to technology for all children [16a6f6fb]. The organization aims to bridge the digital divide and equip children with the skills needed for success in the 21st century. They are using social-emotional learning robots and coding tech toys like Pepper and NAO to enhance learning in their Centers of Excellence. The robots are particularly beneficial for children on the autism spectrum as they are emotionally sensitive and can have individual conversations with each child. Collaborative for Children also addresses challenges in low-income communities through programs like the Collab Lab, a mobile classroom that brings early childhood education directly to the community. The organization focuses on fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and social-emotional development, while using technology to enhance teacher-pupil interaction and bridge the gap in 21st century skills. Their goal is to prepare children for success in the K-12 system and the real world [16a6f6fb].
A global study reveals that most girls are confident in their creative abilities, but two-thirds are scared to make mistakes. Parents have noticed this pressure causing girls to hold back on developing and sharing their ideas. Lego South Africa emphasizes that children deserve opportunities to play, imagine, create, and express themselves without limitation or fear of failure [bc4ba5d3]. The study also shows that limiting what children play with and how they play negatively affects their creative confidence. Gender stereotyping in how adults address, direct, and praise children contributes to this issue. Lego's Play Unstoppable campaign aims to break down barriers and nurture creative confidence in children. Parents can participate in free workshops designed to inspire creativity in children aged six to twelve years old [bc4ba5d3].