FS CD 153 CD 138.

PART1-

PlayWeek 3 Discussion on Play

Cultural Views of Play

Research has demonstrated that young children learn through play, in much the same way other mammals do.

Through play children begin to explore the world, they try out new roles and learn how to use their bodies, minds and senses. Through play children learn to how to fit into society. Through play children develop physically and creatively. Children learn new things by experimenting in much the same way as a scientist experiments. Through play children learn to problem solve and negotiate.

As a child development professional, you learn the critical importance of play in the lives of young children but not all people feel the same way about play.

Some people see play as a distinctly different activity apart from learning. Some people and cultures may see play as a waste of learning time. Some parents today are so worried about academic performance that they think a preschooler should be doing pencil and paper tasks and having teachers teach through direct teaching, like they remember from their elementary years. Some people believe that preschoolers should be doing worksheets and what some call “seat work”. This is not developmentally appropriate for the young child.

Play is important for ADULTS as well as for children. Many of the most creative entrepreneurs and techies will say that they are the most creative when they have added play to their lives.

So let’s explore your thoughts and experiences with play!

1. How did your parents view play as you were growing up?

1. Did your culture’s view of males and females affect your ability to play? If so, please describe.

1. What are your best memories of play?

1. For those of you who are working in a preschool, have you had experiences with parents who want to see more formal academics and less play? If so, what did you or the teacher do?

Post your responses to the prompts above and reply to at least two of your peers

Word count-150-200

PART 2

Video?What Are Your Thoughts About the Anti-Bias Video?

After watching the Anti-Bias Education video filmed by faculty at Pacific Oaks College, I am hopeful that you can see that there is more to an Anti-Bias classroom that simply putting diverse dolls and props in the learning centers.

After watching the video:

1. Have you seen this kind of interaction in preschools you have observed

or worked for?

1. What questions do you have about the interaction in the videos?

1. Do you see activities or interactions in the video that you might use in

your own teaching? Describe.

1. Do you feel comfortable talking to children about differences and answering their questions about race, gender, disabilities, etc?

Reply to two of your peers.

You will see the posts of your peers once you submit your own initial post.

Word Count-150-200

PART 3-

Reflection Journal Guidelines:

Purpose:
The purpose of the reflective journal is for you to reflect on your values, perceptions, and beliefs about caring for infants and toddlers.

Expectations:
Each journal entry should be at least 1 paragraph long. You will be graded on the depth of your responses to each question. These assignments are eligible for resubmission.

Reflective Prompt:

As you listen to his talk, share how you might see yourself following the steps in the video to support your advocacy plan.

Due date: Sunday, February 23, by 11:59 am