Extending Play - Enhancing Learning

A favorite topic of mine.

I get very excited when I hear children sharing their interests with each other. Not only do they say the 'cutest' things BUT they test out all that great stuff that they are learning from YOU (the adults) and expressing their creativity as well.

Sometimes one child gets something started and it engages others rapidly..

On other occasions, the project or action inspires collaboration and deeper exploration...we sometimes end up overcoming a discomfort...like getting dirty!

Taking things that one is confident in (crawling) , curious in (fishing) and blending it with the excitement of a location (spring run off), a new experience (a bridge) and guidance from a trusted educator (adult) ALL helps us in extending our learning and in developing a new skill.

Confidence and self esteem are a very big part of early childhood learning.

So are relationships and community.

How do you feel when you look over these pictures?

Does it look like interests are extended and well communicated?

Are you able to see the connections that these people may be making?

Does it look playful and joyful?