The Dynamics of Play: Observing, Understanding & Relating Play to Educational Objectives and the Foundations of Academic Achievement

Conversations on the value of play in early childhood and early grades education have recently resurfaced, along with growing concern over the negative impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic on all areas of child development. In two independent, but related workshops for highly experienced, currently practicing Waldorf early childhood educators and grades 1-3 teachers – this workshop presented in-person, the other online – we will re-examine and begin recommitting to the essential role of play in education, helping to inspire you to create therapeutic environments that foster healthy play for children from early childhood up to third grade.

According to the World Health Organization, “To grow up healthy, children need to sit less and play more.” As teachers of young children, we are the guardians and defenders of their right to play. Through this practical and hands-on in-person experience, we will explore the relationship between play, healthy brain development, and the sequential social and cognitive capabilities that form the foundation for higher cognitive functions while connecting teacher observations to learning assessments, developmental milestones, and curriculum development.

We will also examine:

• The essential role of teachers in supporting play: lessons from nature-based preschools and kindergartens
• Exploring the continuum of play-based learning from adult-child collaborative play to self-directed free play
• The importance of risk-taking and nurturing resilience
• Opportunities for community learning will include facilitator presentations, small group conversations, individual reflections, and artistic activities.

Facilitators: Lisa Miccio, Sondi Eugene

This workshop takes place at Sunbridge Institute.

Schedule
Friday evening, April 26: Doors open for check-registration at 6:30 pm. Your first session begins promptly at 7:00 pm and runs through 8:30 pm.
Saturday, April 27: Sessions run 9 am – 5 pm, with times for breaks and lunch

Housing/Meals
– Campus housing is reserved directly through Threefold Educational Center.
– Dinner will be available for purchase at Threefold Cafe on Friday evening. Saturday breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included in your workshop cost.
– Read more about local housing and dining options while visiting Sunbridge.

Cost: $340 includes a $30 non-refundable registration fee

For the online companion workshop, see also The Dynamics of Play: Exploring the Current State of Play & What the Pandemic Has Taught Us taking place February 23-24. Registrants signing up for both workshops received a discounted price.