We offer a

Play Based Program

The aim of play based learning is “to promote a sense of wonder, exploration, investigation and interest in a rich range of materials, resources and opportunities in which the child can engage” (Walker, 2007). We provide a range of play based experiences that enhance and develop children’s skills in identity, community, wellbeing, learning and communication.

The Early Years Learning Framework in which we base our program around describes play based learning as “A context for learning through which children organise and make sense of their social worlds, as they engage actively with people, objects and representations (DEEWR, 2009, pg. 46). This definition links with the notions of being, belonging, becoming. Children learning best in ways that are meaningful to them. Play based learning draws from children’s natural desire to engage in experiences based on their interests, strengths and developing skills. A play based program:

Incorporates children’s ideas and interests into planned experiences and routines.
Utilises children’s ideas and interests to extend and create new experiences.
Utilises indoor and outdoor areas to facilitate play and learning.
Offer a variety of play spaces eg. Art, dramatic play, sensory, construction.
Offer a range of open ended experiences and materials.
Allow children to play for extended periods of time without interruption.
Allow children to work alone or with others.
Caters for different abilities and learning styles.
Links children’s investigations to key learning areas or outcomes.

An example of how play based learning works: A child is not going to learn about an apple by just looking at a picture of an apple. They will however, learn about an apple if you give them an apple. There are many experiences that can further teach children about apples, such as apple art projects, making apple sauce and cutting an apple apart to discover to core and seeds as an inquiry focused science activity. Play based learning in preschool is about learning science and math through discovery and developing language skills, social skills, self- help skills, fine and gross motor skills through meaningful play activities.

A play based program does not limit or reduce the role of the educator in children’s play. Effective play based learning requires an educator to have a strong image of the child and view them an capable, competent and co-constructors of the learning environment. The role of the educator in a play based program is to:

Interact with and observe children to gain insights into their interests, skills and knowledge.
Be responsive to children’s cues and the way they use the environment and materials.
Seek information from families and colleagues to better understand children and plan for their learning.
Create inviting play areas with open ended materials.
Create an unhurried environment where children have time to explore and extend their investigations.
Provide modelling and instruction where required.
Modify play areas based on children’s interest changes.

Take the first step for your child’s education

Call (03) 9725 4502 or email us anytime or simply stop by Palm Grove Preschool at 21 Palm Grove, Kilsyth. We welcome visitors and parents.

Palm Grove Preschool is committed to providing a safe environment for all children which ensures their safety, health and wellbeing.

Palm Grove Preschool is licensed by the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.

We are insured and trained in CPR, First Aid, Asthma and Anaphylaxis.

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