D103 Parent Education: The Power of Play [Online]

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The Power of Play: How Play Can Help Children Learn Lessons for Life

As students begin the school year, many parents are eager to help their children get ahead and master the academic skills needed to be successful in the classroom. However, research has demonstrated that unstructured play is essential for healthy childhood development.

In this virtual presentation, parents will hear from Dr. Rebecca Isbell , an internationally renowned educator & speaker who has done extensive research on the power of play in advancing learning in children. Dr. Isbell has explored how play helps children build brain structure, promote executive functioning, and advance social-emotional, attentional, & cognitive skills. Dr.Isbell will reflect on the value of play and what children can learn from different forms of play. She will also discuss how we, as parents, can encourage developmentally appropriate play within our homes.

Ms. Ann Hofmeier, principal at Laura B. Sprague Elementary School, will also join Dr. Isbell for this presentation and reflect on how teachers at Sprague use play everyday to promote educational concepts in their classrooms. More than flash cards and worksheets, the best opportunities to learn can be often be found through independent unstructured play or playing with peers.

This event will be recorded and available to watch for 30 days.

Prior to the event, we will send out a handout created by Dr. Isbell with an outline of her presentation.