Parents are The First Educators
by Susie Beghin, RECE, Founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids
In the latest episode of my podcast, The ECE Classroom, I had the pleasure of interviewing Amanda DaCosta, a supervisor at Alpha’s Discovery Kids Preschool and Daycare. Our conversation was all about the importance of play in early childhood education and how parents can get involved to support their children’s learning and development. The insights Amanda shared are valuable for both educators and parents.
The Importance of Play
Play is not just a fun activity for children; it is a fundamental aspect of their learning and development. Research consistently shows that children learn best through play and in our discussion, Amanda emphasized that play is the best way to engage children in academics and other developmental milestones. It allows children to explore, create, and learn at their own pace. By understanding the significance of play, parents can better support their children’s growth and learning experiences.
Parents as the First Educators
One of the key themes of our conversation was the recognition of parents as the first and best educators for their children. Amanda passionately stated, “Parents are the first, I think the best educator because they know the child best.” This perspective highlights the critical role parents play in shaping their child’s educational journey.
Parents often underestimate their influence on their child’s education. By being actively involved in their child’s play, parents can help reinforce concepts learned in preschool or daycare. For example, if a child is learning about colors, parents can incorporate color games during playtime at home. This not only solidifies the child’s learning but also strengthens the bond between parent and child.
Utilizing Everyday Household Items
Amanda shared practical tips on how parents can use everyday household items for play and learning. She encouraged parents to look around their homes for resources that can stimulate creativity and exploration. Simple items like cardboard boxes, kitchen utensils, and art supplies can become powerful tools for imaginative play. This approach not only makes learning accessible but also reinforces the idea that education can happen anywhere, not just in a classroom setting.
The Four Pillars of Learning
We also discussed the “four pillars of learning” that we believe are essential for child development:
- Language and Literacy: Encouraging reading and storytelling to enhance language skills. This can include reading aloud, discussing stories, and even creating their own stories together.
- STEAM: Integrating science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics into play to foster critical thinking. Simple experiments, building projects, and artistic activities can spark a child’s interest in these areas.
- Physical Activity and Nutrition: Promoting healthy habits through active play and nutritious meals. Physical activity is crucial for developing motor skills and overall health, while nutrition plays a key role in cognitive development.
- Mindful Awareness: Teaching children to be present and aware of their feelings and surroundings. Mindfulness activities can help children manage their emotions and develop a sense of empathy towards others.
These pillars serve as a framework for parents and educators to create enriching experiences that support holistic development. By focusing on these areas, parents can ensure that they are nurturing well-rounded individuals who are prepared for future challenges.
The Importance of Communication
Another vital aspect we explored was the importance of communication between educators and parents. Amanda stressed that effective communication is crucial in demonstrating the value of play-based learning. By sharing insights, resources, and strategies, educators can empower parents to engage in their children’s learning journeys. Regular updates and workshops can help parents understand the significance of play in their child’s development, fostering a collaborative approach to education.
“Parents Learn to Play Too” Book
We also spoke about my book being released on Sept 15th, Parents Learn to Play Too, which serves as a guide for parents looking to incorporate play into their daily routines. This resource offers a variety of activities and tips that can easily be integrated into family life, making it an invaluable tool for fostering learning through play.
Favorite Activities for Parents and Children
As we wrapped up the episode, I reflected on just how much play impacts early childhood education. Amanda and I agreed that empathy, communication, and creativity are key to fostering a love of learning. Our conversation left me feeling inspired and excited to share these insights with listeners. It’s a powerful reminder of the critical role parents play in their child’s education, and how play is the foundation for learning.
Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on early childhood education, parenting, and educator empowerment. Let’s continue to learn, grow, and make a difference in the lives of our students every day.
You can listen to the podcast on your favorite podcast platform, or by clicking here: https://open.spotify.com/show/7Hg7rTtRQggsVSCbbOdvP2?si=paCEPiCRRGK7yOfrTTsh8Q