Farmyard Fun
Small world play is a popular activity in early years settings that provides children with the opportunity to explore and create their own miniature worlds. Through this activity, children can learn and develop a range of skills and abilities that are important for their overall development. Below are some ways in which children learn through small world play here in Happy Kids:
Creativity and Imagination: Small world play encourages children to use their imagination and creativity to create their own unique scenarios. This helps them to develop their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Language and Communication: Small world play provides children with the opportunity to engage in conversation with their peers and develop their communication and language skills. They can describe their scenarios, explain their thought process to others, and use descriptive language to convey their ideas.
Social Skills: Small world play is a collaborative activity where children work together to create a shared experience. This helps them to develop their social skills, build positive relationships with their peers, and learn how to negotiate and compromise with others.
Fine Motor Skills: Small world play often involves manipulating small objects and props, which helps to develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Children learn how to handle small objects carefully and precisely, which can help them to develop dexterity and control.
Cognitive Development: Small world play requires children to use their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to create scenarios and resolve conflicts. This helps to promote cognitive development and prepares them for future academic pursuits.
Emotional Development: Small world play allows children to explore their emotions and express themselves in a safe and supportive environment. They can explore and process their feelings through play, which helps to develop emotional intelligence and promote positive mental health.
Sensory Integration: Small world play provides a multisensory experience for children as they engage with various textures, colors, and sounds. This helps to stimulate their senses and promote sensory integration.
Here in Happy Kids, small world play is presented as an open-ended activity that allows children to take the lead in their own learning. Teachers provide a range of materials and props for children to use, but ultimately the children are free to create their own scenarios and explore their own interests.
Overall small world play is an important activity in early years settings that promotes creativity, language and communication, social skills, fine motor skills, cognitive development, emotional development, and sensory integration. It provides a fun and engaging way for children to learn and develop skills that will serve them well in their future academic and personal pursuits.