In teaching a yoga class recently I realized how similar yoga is to ECE developmentally appropriate practice. By that I mean, both address the individual in a holistic way: Either in a practice that unites mind, body and spirit OR activities and/or experiences that address all areas of development ( Physical, Emotional, Social and Cognitive). Often it’s the promise of physical benefits that draws students in to yoga. Before too long, the other aspects naturally follow. I received the book, … [Read more...]
I Think I Can–I WILL!
Determination, persistence, drive, perseverance and the attitude that the tough get going when the going gets tough. These are hallmark characteristics of….every BABY! Babies are inherently instilled with a can-do spirit and a never-say-die attitude! Think about it. I'm sure you witness it all the time! As they work to roll over for the first time; start crawling; pull to a stand. When they hold onto furniture and cruise around; and then take that first, tentative step away without … [Read more...]
Lego mania or DUPLO delusions
I’m a huge fan of Lego as is my son. In fact, when he was a kidlet he knew just how to play his dear old Mother by just-so-happening to let me know when a new set was out and available. You know, like he was doing me a favor…. Fast forward a few decades, and there are literally thousands of Lego pieces in his PLAY attic. Some are still assembled in awesomeness. I look fondly at the pirate ship or the soccer pitch. Others have come apart and it's anyone's guess whether or not they can ever be … [Read more...]
Play-Based Activities for Play-Based Learning!
If you’ve been following PLAY & GROW for very long, you know one thing for sure about me. I’m more than passionate, closer to obsessed about, providing play-based activities so children PLAY! And why? Because PLAY is instrumental for children to gain the knowledge, skills, concepts and capabilities that they need now, but also to build upon for use in the future. The basic developmental domains in early childhood are: physical, social, cognitive, and emotional. And guess what? PLAY … [Read more...]
Video Games Day–Making the Case for PLAY
I was kind of left with my mouth on the floor when I found out what day it was...Video Games Day?!! Really? We need a day to encourage and celebrate playing video games? (sigh) How about trying for a NO-Video Games Day? Now that would be something out of the ordinary!! I'm not going to say video games don't have a place or don't have any beneficial aspects (read 6 Scientific Benefits) but they are inappropriate for young children. Young children need PLAY! Consider PLAY as one of the … [Read more...]