Located in the Village of Lake George, NY A tradition since 1973
“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play IS serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood."
~Mr. Rogers
What do students learn though play?
1. Block Play and Math Skills
Example: Children using blocks to build towers, bridges, or cities.
Learning Outcome: Spatial reasoning, early geometry concepts, measurement, and problem-solving.
Evidence:
Wolfgang, Stannard, & Jones (2001) found that preschoolers who engaged in complex block play scored higher on math achievement tests in high school.
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2. Pretend Play and Language Development
Example: Children role-playing as doctors, teachers, or shopkeepers.
Learning Outcome: Vocabulary expansion, narrative skills, and expressive language.
Evidence:
Dickinson & Tabors (2001) highlighted that rich language experiences in pretend play environments promote vocabulary and literacy skills.
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3. Rough-and-Tumble Play and Emotional Regulation
Example: Playful wrestling or chase games.
Learning Outcome: Self-control, reading social cues, and emotional regulation.
Evidence:
Pellegrini & Smith (1998) showed that rough-and-tumble play supports emotional development and the ability to distinguish play fighting from real aggression.
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4. Art and Creative Expression
Example: Painting, drawing, or using playdough.
Learning Outcome: Fine motor skills, symbolic thinking, and creativity.
Evidence:
Golomb (2002) emphasized the role of visual art in enhancing symbolic understanding and self-expression in early childhood.
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5. Outdoor Play and Physical Health
Example: Climbing, running, or playing with balls on the playground.
Learning Outcome: Gross motor development, risk assessment, and physical health.
Evidence:
Ginsburg (2007) in the Pediatrics journal asserted that play promotes healthy physical development and combats obesity and stress in children.
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