Play is a powerful experience for young children because children’s learning happens through their play explorations. This lesson focuses on how infants and toddlers play, the types and stages of play, and what adults can do to enhance children’s play. Guided self-assessments are included to evaluate play materials, the play space, and the adult’s role in play with young children. (2 hours)
Objectives
- Describe developmentally appropriate play expectations for infants and toddlers.
- Explain characteristics of toys and play materials with high play value for young children.
- Differentiate between "teacher directed" and "child centered" planning.
- Analyze adult roles in play with infants and toddlers.
- Reflect on children's play and determine where improvements are needed to provide best practice.
