Playing with Purpose

Those Legos and Marbles have a purpose and, no, it’s not to drive you crazy! Almost all toys and games teach skills and concepts that are useful. Maria Montessori said, “Play is a child’s work.” When we are responsible for our children’s academic success it’s easy to forget or discount how much children learn from playing. Play helps develop physical, cognitive, and emotional strength while honing skills. Let’s be honest. I think we can all agree that it’s a lot more fun to learn physics concepts from a marble run or a ball and chemistry from making your own slime than from a book or worksheet. We will play our way to learning science concepts, logic, organization, motor skills, social skills, visual proficiency, and LOTS more. They will have fun AND learn. It’s a win-win!

This class will round out the day with lots of activity and movement-based, interesting learning. Lego challenges will encourage flexible creativity, refine fine motor skills, and teach concepts of earth science, physics, and more. Marble run building will teach physics, engineering, mental flexibility, and problem-solving. Electric circuit building will teach the properties of electricity and electronics, encourage exploration, and following detailed instructions. Puzzles and games will improve logical thinking, accuracy, proficiency, recall, problem-solving, and gross and fine motor skills. Games will range from board games to physical games, to games made from common household items, and will encourage everything from math skills to balance. Games will be both indoor and outdoor when the weather allows. Other toys and activities will be included as well. There are so many great toys and games to learn from!

Class Homework Requirements: Generally, there will be no homework for this class unless they need to finish something started in class.

Tuesday

Time: 2:35-4:05
Grades: K-3
Class Fee: $350
Supply fee: $75
Tutor: Rena Gammon