get.set.go

What is ‘active learning’?Children are born wanting to learn. They build their

knowledge of the world by trying things for themselves. Active learning happens when children DO things and

then SEE what happens. They learn even more when they THINK and TALK about the things they are doing.

Cardboard boxesPegs and stringButtons or bottle topsYoghurt cups and tinsMacaroniPlay dough (see below)Egg boxesCrayonsToilet rolls

Magazine/newspapersOld clothes for dress upPots, pans and bowlsSand and spadesCups and spoonsStones or shellsSticks to draw in the sand

Leaves and flowersCorks / things that floatPlastic bottlesSquirty bottlesSpongesWatering cansSeeds to plantWood to build thingsBalls

LEARNING BY CHOICEChildren learn by playing

with things they enjoy.If they can choose WHAT

to play with and HOW to play, they learn more. And they feel confident

and proud.

... now imagine how much more children

learn if there is someone to talk to them and ask them

questions.

Think of a baby...How do they learn to crawl and then walk?

... now imagine how much more children

someone to talk to them and ask them

Children use their WHOLE BODIES when they learn actively.

Look around at all the toys you ALREADY have!

Imagine all of the things that can be done with playdough! Imagine all of the things that can be done with playdough!

AN EARLY LEARNING SOCIAL FRANCHISEwww.smartstart.org.za

All you need is...• 2 cups plain flour• 1 cup salt• 1 tablespoon of oil• 1 cup cold water• 2 drops liquid food colouring

It’s so easy to make...STEP 1: Mix the plain flour and salt STEP 2: Add water, food colouring and oilSTEP 3: Mix until ingredients are combined and

knead well (if too wet add a little more flour)

You cando this! MAKING PLAY DOUGH

GET-SET-GO TIP # 2

ACTIVE LEARNINGISSUE #2

Remember to make sure that all ‘toys’ are safe and that children cannot hurt themselves or swallow them.

The five ingredients ofactive learning

Active learning can happen in your home!

FREEDOM TO CHOOSEwhat they want to play with.

OPPORTUNITY TO EXPLORE and play with the things in any way they like.

TIME TO PLAY AND TALKWITH OTHERS so that theybuild language by describing what they are doing.

ADULTS TO JOIN IN AND SUPPORT them while they are playing. They can ask questions and increase learning.

THINGS TO PLAY WITH.The best materials are those that children can use in many different ways.

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active learning

that children can use in many

Arrange a play space at home where children feel comfortable and make sure it is safe (no sharp edges or dangerous things)

Find things in your home that children can play with

Allow children to play in their own way and to try new things

Join in and talk to them as they play and find ways to help them learn more

SUPERVISE AT ALL TIMES