• Develop cognitive concepts. Children learn to solve problems (What does this do? Does this puzzle piece fit here?) through play. Children also learn colors, numbers, size and shapes. They have the ability to enhance their memory skills as well as their attention span. Children move on to higher levels of thought as they play in a more stimulating environment.

• Develop language skills. Language develops as a child plays and interacts with others. This begins with parents playing cooing games with their children and advances to practical levels such as telling make-believe stories and jokes.

• Develop social skills. Learning to cooperate, negotiate, take turns and play by the rules are all important skills learned in early games. These skills grow as the child plays. As a result, children learn the roles and rules of society.

Positive play experiences develop positive emotional well-being. Through play and imagination, a child can fulfill wishes and overcome fears of unpleasant experiences. Play helps the child master the environment. When children feel secure, safe, successful and capable, they acquire important components of positive emotional health.

Classroom Environment
Classrooms are organized into learning centers where children choose from a variety of activities that encourage problem solving and valuable interchange with peers. Children learn about themselves and the world around them through experimentation, exploration and discovery.

Learning centers are designed to help children become critical thinkers and problem solvers. They enhance self-esteem as children interact with other kids and adults by playing with the materials and equipment in the centers. Learning centers include art, blocks, dramatic play, housekeeping, library, listening, manipulative, science, sand and water, and writing.