Play at the Library: Supporting Early Learning Play and Learn Centers

Active Learning Environments…. Are intentionally structured to allow children to play with diverse things in ways that develop literacy. Have social (interaction) and physical (material and environmental) components.

“Maintain a joyful, playful atmosphere around literacy activities” --National Research Council, 1998 “Education is a natural process carried out by the child. It is not acquired by listening to words but by experiences in the environment.” -- Maria Montessori,

Why Play in Libraries? Play is essential for development Play helps young children learn Play contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well being of children Play provides opportunities for parents to engage fully with their children Play nurtures an early love of the library…children associate the library with fun!

Furniture with Bins

Self-Serve Activity Bins

Why Support Early Learning? Early brain development matters The first five years are very important Prepares kids to take school by storm Our local efforts are supported by state and national initiatives Kids love it!

Magnetic Boards

BUGS!

Alphabet Bags

Puzzles

Play Promotes Early Learning Common goals for all in the community who serve young children and their families

Small Table and Chairs

School Readiness Areas or domains of development Play activities help young children get ready for school

Social and Personal Language and Literacy Mathematical Thinking Scientific Thinking Social Studies The Arts Physical Development and Health Seven key areas of learning

Color Sorting

Early Literacy Practices Every Child Ready to Your Library – Talking – Singing – Reading – Writing –Playing

Active Learning Choice – The child chooses what to do. Materials – There are ample materials that children can use in a variety of ways. Manipulation – The child can manipulate objects freely. Language – The child describes what he/she is doing while they are doing it. Support – Adults and peers encourage the child’s creativity. Adapted from High Scope materials

Activities related to farming

Magnetic Activity - FARM

Themed Puppet Sets

Library staff are encouraged to interact with families and play with children

Arranging Your Space Smaller, well defined spaces and nooks encourage language experiences and collaboration with peers and adults Children become more involved in sustained literacy play when objects are clustered together by theme Place related books in the immediate area of play activities Create cozy areas where children can read Provide play props that allow children to act out life experiences

Care and Cleaning Consider a “sanitize me” bin – parents put “dirty” items in designated bin Child safe spray solution “Clorox Anywhere” Machine washable items – use non-fumed non toxic laundry detergent Cleaning schedules Replacement materials available

What about straightening up? Encourage clean-up as part of the play – School readiness skill – Promotes sorting, classifying – Social ability…clean up after yourself…expected in Kindergarten – Make it fun…show child by example – Idea – give a sticker to children for cleaning up the area