The Decline of Children’s Free Play
TEA Kindergarten students are focusing on this decline and brainstorming ways to bring more free play into our TEA community
The Kindergarten class of Tahoe Expedition Academy is focusing on how children’s free play with other children has declined over the years. Play-based education (especially at a younger age) gives children the chance to develop and grow their creativity, imagination, and individuality.
Play is one of the primary approaches when teaching Kindergarten students math, English, and grammar. However, this free play among young students has drastically declined. This year, the TEA Kindergarten students are focusing on this decline and brainstorming ways to bring more free play into our TEA community.
"Pretty sure I've found some free play over there!"
Not only has this benefited the Kindergarten class, but they hope to find ways to bring more free play into all of our lives.
Rosie Striffler, the Kindergarten teacher has been finding new ways to incorporate playtime into the student’s daily schedule. She has done this by adding nature exploration time in the morning and afternoon, P.E., recess, and playing with math manipulatives. The class has been journaling their play experiences such as while rock climbing in the outdoors.
Throughout their journey, Rosie has been guiding her crew into discovering how play enhances academic learning, human experiences, and connection to others. Adding more free play for the Kindergarten students has helped them grow into creative, artistic, and adventurous kids. Not only has this benefited the Kindergarten class, but they hope to find ways to bring more free play into all of our lives.
Discovering free play opportunities in the snow!
Observing and journaling free plan experiences around our hometown of Truckee, California.
