Date of Award
2003
Document Type
Non Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Education
Department
Education
Program
Early Childhood Education
Capstone Instructor
Cecelia Westby
Second Reader
Lynn Gehrke
Keywords
early childhood education, play-based learning
Abstract
Early childhood practitioners understand that play is essential to supporting early childhood growth and development. Play is a source of enjoyment and creativity for young children and it is also the primary catalyst of cognitive, emotional, linguistic, physical and social development. Recent research has proven that meaningful and active play experiences are essential to promoting healthy brain development in young children. Play is a crucial activity for young children yet, it has become extinct in many early childhood programs. The disappearance of play is attributed to government educational standards, administrative demands and parental pressure. As a result, many early childhood educators have bowed to outside pressures and have implemented academically-centered curriculum. This capstone explains the importance of play in early childhood education and the developmental benefits of play and play-centered curriculum for young children.
Recommended Citation
Wendel, S. A. (2003). The Developmental Benefits of Play-Centered Curriculum (Thesis, Concordia University, St. Paul). Retrieved from https://digitalcommons.csp.edu/legacy-capstones_maed/149Restricted
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