One of the many discussed topics for Early Childhood teachers is play. As educators we understand that children learn through play; however others feel that play is not beneficial because it can't be tested. I am extremely lucky to have developmental centers as part of my classroom environment. One of my favorite developmental centers is my dramatic play area. Dramatic play offers children time to practice their social skills, reading, writing, and math skills. (All skills that are tested.) I love listening to my 5 and 6 year olds hold court at dramatic play.
Here are some adventures in the dramatic play area in my classroom:
Veterinarian's Office:
My students loved being a vet, vet tech, receptionist, or the parent of a patient. The vet office that I use for my real fur babies was so sweet to donate name tags, gloves, masks, bandanas, bandages, official jars to hold supplies, business cards, a pet carrier, and many other essential objects. I found scrubs and pet carriers at Goodwill. The Dollar Store was a great place for bandages, thermometers, dog treats, and "patients".
 |
| I love that the pet fish in our vet office was me. The reason for Miss Travers the fish visiting the vet...blood. I couldn't help but giggle. |
Bakery:
Our current fun adventure! Our media specialist provided books on chefs and bakeries. Again, I found myself at Goodwill and the Dollar Store for supplies. I found mixing bowls, rolling pin, whisk, pot holders, cookie sheets, and baking pans at Goodwill. At the Dollar Store, I found "take out" containers, sprinkles, icing containers, frosting bag, hand towel, and socks (turned into donuts).
I found many great ideas for creating bakery items on Pinterest. A few of my favorite pins were from Inner Child Fun and PreKinders. My cute bakery banner and menu came from Pocket of Preschool Bakery Dramatic Play resource on TPT.
The excitement on my kiddos faces when they are engrossed in such play with real life items is amazing. Common Core asks teachers to assess students on their speaking and listening and language skills. What an appropriate, authentic center to assess these skills? Common Core is fun!
~Kimberly
