Question

Lena, mother of 4-year-old Gregor, wonders why his preschool teacher provides extensive playtime in learning centers instead of formal lessons in literacy and math skills.

  Explain to Lena why adult-supported (versus adult-directed) play is the best way for preschoolers to develop academically.

Answer 1

Play based learning is an appropriate practice for the devolopment and learning of a child. You should first understand and accept that the concept of education has been changed. It has been getting updated day by day. In the upgrade of child psychology has brought a numerous change in the academics of a child. We are in the devoloped era unlike the traditional way of teaching.

I can make you understand how the play based learning will support your child's socio emotional skills, self regulation abilities etc. Play can promote your child's physical well being and health, also it is considered as an opportunity for the child to explore the social roles and to devolop other skills. The child will get a break from the digital new world. Play can guide your child an effective teaching strategy. We can understand your concern, but understand that for example if a teacher is trying to teach the various shapes like triangle, rectangle etc, it become very easy for the child when it is shown by using visual aspects like a toy. Your child is paying attention to the environment and the structure. They are given with a freedom of choice lead their own learning experience based on their interests and their abilities. You should understand that control and support are two different words, if a adult controls a child they are actually deneiying their freedom of choice.

Not only in the schools but in home also it can be recommended to adopt the concept of play based learning. Talking to your child about their play can make them feel that you are respecting their play decisions. Validating their efforts by participating them in their plays can help to communicate with them. It can prevent their problems and build your child up. By knowing all the aspects of your child you teachers can make plans to fix any issues regarding the child and fulfill the child's needs. By this way it become easy to grow your child acadamically also.Always try to build a supporting and trusting relationship with your child. Give preference to the word SUPPORTING rather than CONTROLLING. Trust me definitly your child is going to have a great future both acadamically as well as personally.