Learning Through Play

at Preschool

Researchers, Designers, Engineers and Builders

The physical environment at preschool is paramount in supporting the children's growth and learning. Our environments are intentionally planned to reflect the children's capabilities, interests, cultural backgrounds, independence and are aesthetically appealing, so to build enthusiasm and a love of learning. (National Quality Standard 3)

Recently, we removed our old cubby house as it was ready to be replaced. Who better to research and design the replacement than our preschool children. Their voices guided this project as they researched, designed and engineered.

Research involved discussing what our old cubby house looked like and how the children played in it, as well as what we would like the new one to be.

The Smartboard helped us search for design ideas. From this we discussed each design, what was the same and different for each one and which aspects we did or did not like. There were so many ideas and thoughts and some BIG dreams for the perfect cubby.  

"I like the slide." "We already have a slide." "A ball pit. Can we have one?" "This playground is perfect." "That would be a scary one. It has so many layers." "Oh, that one has so many rooms. That would be too big." "That's a shopping one." "Are there any restaurant cubbies?" "Stairs as safe." "Bunk beds. I would be scared if it had bunk beds." "Blue. That's my favourite colour." "Yay, a rock climbing wall. I can rock climb." "Yes. A bridge. I want to buy that one."

Purple group's research session resulted in most children showing their desire for one particular design and they began to chant together, "Buy it! Buy it!" Then someone saw the price next to the picture of the cubby house and stated to their friends, "but it's $99 000. It says just there." 

We voted on a few designs to see which ones were most popular. There were many similarities in what the children liked to be included. 

Design

Then it was time to design our own. Pencils, textas and clipboards came out and our master architects began to work.  Each had their own ideas and ability to bring this to life through their drawings. 

What do you think? 

Engineers and Builders

The children also practised their engineering and building skills with hammers, nails and timber, just in case they get called on to help build our new cubby house. 

Woodwork, hammering in particular, is a skill requiring eye hand co-ordination and upper body strength. This supports so many skills within children's development and learning. As you can see from the photos, we have some budding builders emerging.