“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children play is serious learning. Play really is the work of childhood.”
At Brooker Memorial’s preschool, we believe that learning blossoms through play. In a nurturing environment, children explore, create, and connect with others, all while building essential skills for their future. Below are just a few examples of the invaluable lessons children absorb in our play-based learning areas.
When your child explores the ART AREA, they are learning to…
Express themselves and be creative
Recognize and create colors
Hold and use writing tools and paintbrushes with care
Develop an understanding of shapes, symmetry, and spatial skills
When your child builds in the BLOCK or BUILDING AREA, they are learning to…
Explore concepts of length, measurement, and numbers
Take turns, cooperate with friends, and share materials
Manipulate different materials and understand their unique characteristics
Develop problem-solving skills in a hands-on way
When your child plays at the SENSORY TABLE, they are learning to…
Measure, count, and sort objects
Discover cause and effect
Practice eye-hand coordination through engaging activities
When your child enters the DRAMATIC PLAY AREA, they are learning to…
Use imagination and explore abstract thinking
Role-play and build vocabulary
Practice problem-solving, conflict resolution, and cooperation skills
When your child uses the MANIPULATIVE AND PUZZLE AREA, they are learning to…
Recognize and sort shapes
Strengthen spatial awareness, eye-hand coordination, and fine motor skills
When your child visits the WRITING/WRITTEN EXPRESSION AREA, they are learning to…
Understand the meaning behind letters and symbols
Begin recognizing sight words
Learn left-to-right progression in reading and writing
Enhance fine motor skills, setting the foundation for writing
In today’s busy world, it’s easy to fill every hour with structured activities. But play offers something irreplaceable—an open space for children to explore who they are and how they relate to the world. As Fred Rogers wisely said, “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play really is the work of childhood.”
Curriculum Key:
Pre-reading/writing skills = green
Pre-math skills = red
Science skills = orange
Motor skills = blue
Social-emotional skills = purple
