Inquiry and play are natural components of childhood and children’s development. Both play a big role in the way children learn and grow. Through imaginative play, and exploring the world around them, children intuitively ask questions and expand their knowledge. In this workshop, we will become explorers ourselves and investigate how to create learning environments that promote play, questioning, observation, and opportunities to take risks. From indoor and outdoor setups, to the materials we provide children, we can begin to cultivate spaces that support children’s natural desire to explore. 

Objectives

By the end of the workshop, participants will…

• Have a deeper understanding of inquiry and play-based approaches to learning
• Understand that play and asking questions are at the root of child development
• Reflect on our individual beliefs around children & childhood, and look at where inquiry and play connect with our teaching philosophies
• Acquire tools and strategies to create environment that support children’s learning

Outline 
Session 1: Inquiry & Play

• What is an inquiry and play-based approach to learning?
• Reflecting on your childhood and current teaching practices
• Explore how we as educators can build relationships and cultivate environment where children feel safe to take risks and try new things

Session 2: The Environment

• Creating learning environment that foster curiosity and critical thinking
• Using meaningful materials and loose parts that spark questions and promote creativity
• Developing learning invitations and provocations, both indoors and outdoors
• Reflecting on an inquiry and play-based approach, and applying new knowledge to your current practice and environment

Trainer’s Profile

Logan Z. is an early childhood and elementary educator with experience teaching in the United States, Ireland and China. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education. Growing up in the mountains of Colorado, USA, Logan has a passion for exploration and the outdoors; both playing a role in her educational pedagogy. After attending the Reggio Emilia International Study Group in Italy, Logan’s passions for inquiry based and child centered learning were ignited. She has since  collaborated with educators across the globe to develop their philosophies, and to create beautiful learning environments through the Reggio Emilia approach.

Methodology

This workshop will provide opportunities to reflect on current practices, to ask questions and engage in meaningful discussions, and to collaborate with other participants through hands-on activities. 

Platform

Zoom
A Zoom account is not required if you are strictly joining Zoom Meetings as a participant. An email invite will be emailed to you prior to the live workshop. Before joining a Zoom meeting on a computer or mobile device, you can download the Zoom app from the Download Center. Otherwise, you will be prompted to download and install Zoom when you click a join link.

Download Zoom Mobile Apps for iPhone or Android
Download Zoom Client for Meetings

Target Audience

Early childhood and elementary educators and administrators, guiding children aged 2-8.

Fees
SGD350.00 (USD270.00)/person for all 2 sessions
E-certificate will be issued

Other Details
Duration: 2 days, 6 hours
Closing Date: 20 Aug 2022

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