Learning Through Play

Throughout scanning through literature and scanning through articles, I have been looking at "Learning through play" Below are the 12 features of play.


12 Features of play

•  Using first - hand experiences 
• Making up rules 
• Making props
• choosing to play
• Rehearsing the future
• Pretending 
• Playing alone
• Playing together
• Having a personal agenda
• Being deeply involved
• Trying out recent learning 
• Coordinating ideas, feelings and relationships for free flow play 

(Adapted from Bruce 1991,1996) 

I have found this all very interesting to read about and is something I definatly want to look further into. I have been specifically looking into Early years and KS1 (ages 3 - 6 ) and it has got me thinking even more about my own practice. 

Now I know I have mentioned this many times before about my teaching, however today I have been thinking, is the syllabus too structured and too set for this younger age group? should all lessons be imagination creative and taking them away to a "magical world" rather then learning how to do a demi plie at aged 4? is this too structured for them and are we getting too bogged down about the "technical" side of dance too young? Yes I am all for safe dance practice and that it must be done correctly and safely but maybe it should be a little more free. 

For anyone who is familiar with the RAD syllabus they offer a pre school exam, and I LOVE this. it is set by the teacher so you can do any scenario so for example I sometimes do a trip to the zoo or to a treasure island. Throughout this time they have to show that they are able to do certain movements. 

I am now thinking that this is something that should maybe go beyond pre school years. Having certain movements that they have to be able to do and learn, but learning them in a way that is fun through play and safely. 

I would love to hear others thoughts and feelings on this. 

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