Child development experts know the value of play-based learning. According to Early Learning Ventures, it emphasizes the importance of “hands-on, active experiences that engage children’s natural curiosity and creativity. Research shows that play-based learning improves cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development in young children… [and] can help children develop crucial skills such as problem-solving, creativity, and empathy – skills that are essential for success in today’s rapidly changing world”.
Pre-K and Kindergarten parents know first hand how important it is for kids to play. Need ideas? Here are some suggestions for play-based learning activities you can do as a family.
Board Games and Puzzles
Board games and puzzles are a great way for kindergarten and pre-k parents to learn and play together. Games are one of the first places kids learn to think strategically and understand cause and effect. Plus, many games rely on teamwork for success, and that’s a great skill to develop at any age. Jigsaw puzzles, word searches, and other brain-teasing activities are a fun way to engage children as young as pre-K and kindergarten, and can easily be adapted into a team or group activity if the whole family wants to join in.
Music, Singing, and Dancing
Have some little performers in your family? Music, singing, and dance are all great ways to learn through play. Learning songs and music can teach memorization and recall skills, as well as help kids retain the information in the song itself. Songs are one of the easiest and earliest ways we commit information to memory.
Dancing teaches similar skills and adds the benefit of physical movement. Even gentle movement is great for kids’ overall well-being and can boost their energy. Performance also offers children a new way to express themselves and explore emotions. Performing at home is a great way to build confidence and discover new interests, talents, and skills.
Outdoor Activities
Regardless of age or mobility level, being outside (and learning from nature) is one of the best ways to improve learning outcomes. Outdoor play has a host of benefits for kids, including:
- Improving information retention and critical thinking
- Encouraging and boosting creativity
- Teaching children to make connections between a variety of concepts and sensory experiences
- Improving mood and reducing anxiety, which leads to stress-free fun and learning
Just being outside is enough to start seeing these benefits. Try letting kids do their homework (or have a homeschool lesson) outside and away from screens and see how that shapes their experience.
Your Partner in Learning
Coach Kelly LIVE loves helping kids learn and thrive. If you’ve tried lots of ideas and are still noticing your Pre-K or Kindergarten student faces learning challenges, we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn about our tutoring and learning support services for young children.