2.5 hour workshop

Can the Teachers Come Out and Play? Supporting Children's Learning Through Our Play

Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “It is a happy talent to know how to play.” In this very hands-on workshop, adapted from the NAEYC publication From Play to Practice, by Marcia L. Nell and Walter F. Drew, teachers will have the opportunity to engage in play experiences with open-ended materials. Participants will use reflective practices surrounding their play, embarking on a journey to rethink their approach to supporting children’s learning. We will discuss the role of play in children’s development, examine the relationship between preschool learning standards and play, and explore how celebrating the play experience can enhance curriculum and enrich the classroom experience. We will also discuss the role that “loose parts” and open-ended play materials can enrich a learning environment and the experiences we present to children.

 This workshop is intended to inspire, rejuvenate, and strengthen the vision of early childhood teachers and administrators, while reinforcing the importance of play in early childhood development and learning.

A note on diversity: This workshop will honor the experience of every participant, including explicit recognition of cultural background and ability as they relate to the play experience. In turn, discussion will focus on how to similarly support the play experience of children with respect to diverse experiences, backgrounds, and abilities.
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Upon enrollment in this workshop, you will have 2 weeks to complete all course content and submit your evaluation. Once the training is successfully completed, a 2.5 hour training certificate will be issued.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this workshop, participants should be able to:
    1. Use reflective teaching practices when planning or just observing children's play experiences.

    2. Provide hands on play experiences using open-ended materials.

    3. Consider how play supports learning.

The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc.

The Institute for Education and Professional Development, Inc. was established in 2005 to provide professional development and consultation services to early childhood programs and educators. We work collaboratively with programs, educators, and agencies to improve the quality of education and care for young children and families.

IEPD has master instructors who provide training, coaching and mentoring services. Each of the IEPD instructors receives training on adult learning principles, training design and delivery, and evaluation. All of the IEPD instructors have worked in the field of early childhood education, bringing their own experiences and "lessons learned" to the training.

Our trainings are fun, engaging, and are filled with important information and resources. We want to work with you, hear your stories, successes and challenges, and provide assistance to help you in your work.
Patrick Jones - Course author
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