St Dunstan's Preschool
Mural created for our preschool by Martin Watson, 2013
Learning through Play
We believe that the optimal context for children’s learning is within play.
Play based learning “recognises and celebrates children’s current strengths, acknowledges diverse learning styles and encourages group learning projects.” We support play based learning through the provision of “a balance between child initiated ideas, intentional experiences for learning and responding to family goals within teachable moments.” (Preschool Philosophy).
Children’s learning through play
Children’s learning is dynamic, complex and holistic. Physical, social, emotional, personal, spiritual, creative, cognitive and linguistic aspects of learning are all intricately interwoven and interrelated.
Play is a context for learning that:
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allows for the expression of personality and uniqueness;
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enhances dispositions such as curiosity and creativity;
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enables children to make connections between prior experiences and new learning;
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assists children to develop relationships and concepts;
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stimulates a sense of well-being.
Children actively construct their own understandings and contribute to others’ learning. They recognise their agency, capacity to initiate and lead learning, and their rights to participate in decisions that affect them, including their learning.
(EYLF Belonging, Being, Becoming, p10)
Social and Emotional learning
Social and emotional learning skills involve developing the ability to understand and manage our emotions, establish positive relationships, develop empathy for others, set and achieve goals and feel good about themselves (Be You, 2019).
