Page 10 - LESSION 11.pmd

Play and Early Learning

different home related equipment and their use will help in knowing their
perceptions and their observations. Therefore, according to the nature of the
task, a corner of the play room will be the best location for it. Sufficient
material as per their needs, will promise more social interactions where they Notes
will earn to share, meet the desires of other children and express individual
feelings.

(ii) Blocks or Construction Area: As we know, blocks are used as construction
toys for building things. There should be blocks of different sizes and weights.
If more than one child is playing with the blocks, there are chances of
intentional interference of others which will cause destruction of the structure
created. Block play is a valuable learning tool. An area should be set aside
for block play as such play develops imagination, creativity and social skills.
Larger or heavy blocks should be arranged in lower shelves to avoid them
from falling on the toes of children.

This type of play enhances gross and fine motor development. If space permits
different types of toys, bikes, small cars, trucks, boats, jeeps, animals may
also be placed with blocks. Combinations of this material will be productive,
imaginative and creative.
(iii) Library, books and puzzle area: Books are important in the playroom.
The room will have to be lit properly to facilitate reading. Two or more
children may read or discuss a book. A corner or some suitable space will be
suitable for this purpose. A low, height- appropriate chair and table may be suitable
for supporting books. A variety of books for different ages will encourage the
children and create more interest in reading. There can also be a collection of
simple puzzles.

(iv) Art Area: One part of the room must be devoted for keeping materials for
drawing, painting and other art activities. The space for it may be allocated
near the wash basin or lavatory so that the children can get water for drawing
or painting and wash their hands without disturbing others. If art materials
are easily accessible for young children, it will not only save time of the
adults but also help children to become independent.
A part from all these materials, manipulative toys for muscular coordination,
science experimental instruments, a space for plants and musical instruments can
also be arranged in the playroom to create a discovery corner and a music and
movement corner. A playroom (indoor) should be arranged in such a way that
children can move freely and materials should be easily accessible for all children
irrespective of their age, gender and height.
11.5.2: Some play materials and toys: Design of space is enriched by the
different kinds of materials that can be available for children. Children enjoy
playing with old bottle caps, crushing newspaper, leaves, pebbles and a variety

EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION 25