Play Matters: Engaging Children in Learning

Australian Developmental Curriculum: A play and project based philosophy

Author(s): Kathy Walker

Publisher: ACER Press, 2007

Play Matters provides information, examples and practical strategies for classroom teachers wishing to explore and implement the Developmental Curriculum (play and project based curriculum) into the learning environment.

Play is often viewed as the reward for when real work is complete. This is not how the term is used in the Developmental Curriculum. Play is part of the learning and work of children.

A play and project based curriculum has its foundations in the developmental perspective that recognises that children are not only biologically influenced in relation to their learning and development, but also shaped through the influences and experiences they are exposed to in their environments. It emphasises that learning is much broader and richer than just literacy and numeracy and is focusing parents, teachers and children on the 'whole' child.

This book highlights that the way young children learn in the early years of school, and the teaching and learning strategies that are required for this learning, are distinct and unique compared to the ways for older children and adults.

Aimed at early-learning and primary school staff, Play Matters provides examples describing experiences of schools using the play and project based approach as well as strategies for how to implement the approach.

Play Matters contains a CD of information sheets and key summaries, and forms for planning, observing, assessing and reporting.

Play Matters is proudly produced by the Lady Gowrie Child Centre (Melbourne) Inc., a not-for-profit organisation providing excellence in early childhood education and published by ACER Press.

Price: $59.95