As a mother of a kindergartener I have enjoyed watching my daughter and other children “play” while they work, observe ever-so-slowly a spider spinning its web, building towers, singing songs, or talking about a story that was read to them. According to recent articles, this organic way of learning is countercultural to the norm of the majority of our school system. Kindergarten’s transformation since 1999 is concerning: http://truthabouteducation.wordpress.com/2014/03/06/the-disturbing-transformation-of-kindergarten/. Kindergarten continues to focus more resources on reading instruction rather than on learning through play, music and dramatization.
This cultural norm appears to have even changed expectations with my own relatives to the degree that I have received comments such as “shouldn’t she be reading by now?” and when they ask her “what did you learn today?” she says – “I just played”. They may express a sigh of concern however I am thrilled that she feels like she is playing while she is learning. Tactical skills can be taught anytime – ideally at the right time developmentally. Creative skills like observing a spider weave its web and wondering what happens next is best learned now.
Regina Mater
Regina Mater is an educational community of Catholic families based in in Austin, Texas. We provide classroom instruction, curriculum guidance, family celebrations of the liturgical year, and theological formation for parents. Join us on GoodReads
17 membersThis is a group for Regina Mater families to share their summer reading selections along with rev...
