Play Based Exploration
07 – 11 July 2025 | Abu Dhabi | 24 – 28 Nov. 2025 | Dubai | 24 – 28 Nov. 2025 | Abu Dhabi |
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
1. Understanding Play-Based Exploration
- Define play-based learning and exploration.
- Recognize the importance of play in cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
- Explore different types of play (free play, guided play, structured play, imaginative play).
2. Theoretical Foundations of Play-Based Learning
- Understand key child development theories related to play:
- Piaget’s Cognitive Development Theory.
- Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory and Zone of Proximal Development.
- Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches.
- Explore the role of curiosity and hands-on learning in child development.
3. Creating a Play-Based Learning Environment
- Design engaging, child-centered learning spaces for exploration.
- Incorporate natural materials, sensory experiences, and open-ended resources.
- Implement outdoor play, nature-based learning, and loose parts play.
4. Role of the Educator in Play-Based Exploration
- Facilitate child-led discovery and inquiry-based learning.
- Ask open-ended questions to encourage critical thinking.
- Balance structured and unstructured play opportunities.
- Document and reflect on children’s learning experiences through play.
5. Play-Based Exploration Activities for Different Age Groups
- Implement toddler sensory play, problem-solving games, and movement-based learning.
- Design STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Math) play-based activities.
- Encourage literacy and language development through storytelling and dramatic play.
- Promote social-emotional skills through cooperative and imaginative play.
6. Play and Inquiry-Based Learning for Different Educational Settings
- Apply play-based exploration in early childhood education (preschool, kindergarten).
- Integrate play in primary school settings to support active learning.
- Adapt play-based strategies for special needs and inclusive education.
7. Assessment and Documentation in Play-Based Learning
- Observe and assess children’s development through play.
- Use play-based portfolios, anecdotal records, and learning stories.
- Implement formative assessments in a play-based curriculum.
8. Case Studies and Practical Applications
- Analyze real-world examples of successful play-based learning programs.
- Participate in hands-on activities and collaborative discussions.
- Develop an action plan for implementing play-based exploration in your setting.
Target Audience
- Early childhood educators and preschool teachers
- Primary school teachers and curriculum designers
- Childcare providers and caregivers
- Play therapists and child development specialists
- Parents and homeschooling educators