My research topic is on the importance of play in early childhood. We discussed this topic during our Child Development course, and I have been very intrigued since. Childhood obesity is such a big epidemic today that Mrs. Obama has taken this issue on firsthand while her husband is serving his presidency. The lack of play at home and in the classroom is in my opinion the biggest reason why our country is struggling with childhood obesity. I also feel that children are missing out on the opportunity to be a kid and do what comes naturally to them which is playing.
My personal experience does play a part in this simulation process. Before we moved to Korea, my husband and I were both working like many American families do today. At the end of the day, we were both exhausted and did not want to take our youngest son to the park or outside to play catch. The previous courses have really opened my eyes to see the importance of play. As a teacher, I know that play gives children the chance to re-enact what they have learned and gives them a chance to apply their new knowledge as well. Today, I do make time for my son to play on the playground and make new friends.
So far, I have gained one resources for my topic of Play and I have learned new terminology. The discussion board assignment earlier this week allowed me to become more knowledgeable about finding quality research, and so far I have one article from PBS Kids. The chart for our first application this week has also made me aware that researchers have their own language. I am really learning a lot about research that I did not know after spending four years in college! If anyone has any resources or insight into this topic of Play in early childhood, please do share.
Stacey,
ReplyDeleteYou chose a great topic to research. There are so many children that are obese and so many parnts do not even realize it or they are in denial.
The reason for the obesity is chidlren do not get out and play they we used to, they have video games, computers, and other technologies that they play with, instead of going outside and playing.
I currently do not have any information on Play, but I will be on the look out and if I come across something I will pass it on. Good luck with your research.
Stacey,
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed learning about the Importance of Play in our Child Development course as well. When visiting our classrooms at the center it is so wonderful to watch children in the dramatic play area. You never really know where their imaginations will take them and it is so amazing how they use what they have to spend hours playing. I agree that working families very often forget how important physical activity is to the development of young children. As educators we must urge parents to make a conscious effort to find the time to allow their young children to participate in some physical activity. I will be sure to pass on any information that I find regarding play.
Stacey,
ReplyDeleteAt our school we are trying to provide more play/exploration time learning in our early childhood classes, but are having a hard time making everyone happy about it. Our international school follows the British Curriculum which pushes academics at an early age, and the families that attend our school have high expectations for their students as well as cultural expectations for them to be high academic achievers from an early age. When all is said and done what is assessed and measured are their academic abilities. Some teachers have said they are happy to incorporate more play opportunities however it will decrease the amount of direct instruction they will get, so academic scores will be lower.
Hi Stacey,
ReplyDeleteI really like the topic that you have chosen to research! You bring up some really good points about why play is so important in early childhood; I agree with you, this is such an important aspect of development that a lot of times is not focused on or thought of as important. Play is beneficial for all areas of development and overall, children learn through play! I remember we read some really good articles on this subject in one of the past courses, they would make nice resources to have. I am looking forward to learning what you find out about this subject, I'm also glad that you are taking the time to make sure that your son has the time to play!
I agree with you Stacy,play is something that every young child shoud experience because it is part of an exercise process. Your blog was very interesting this week.
ReplyDelete