Playing or Learning? Or Both? Interactions of Play, Learning, and Formal Instruction

One of the major discussions taking place regarding pre-K learning environments is about learning and play in the curriculum. Many educators and caregivers are concerned about the loss of free play time, while others worry that too much play and not enough instructional time will not prepare children adequately for kindergarten. This workshop will consider the individual components of these concerns, introduce historical trends and current theory and research about play and learning, and help participants generate ideas for determining the amount, purpose, and structure of play and learning in your own practice. (NOTE: This training was previously titled “Playing to Learn, Learning Through Play” for SUTQ–this version is the OA revision.)