Play-Based Learning Centers

These centers focus on the integration of all areas of the preschool curriculum. The play activities are purposively planned to reflect the learning that takes place in small and large group instruction. These theme based centers are facilitated by adults who address each child’s individual needs.

The following is a list of some suggested play centers that we include throughout the year:

• Blocks/Vehicles/manipulatives
• Sand, water, sensory
• Arts and crafts/play dough
• Books and puppets
• Science and math
• Writing and fine-motor
• Puzzles and games
• Dramatic play (kitchen, grocery store, doctor’s office

These are some of the preschool skills embedded within the play centers:

• Cooperative Play (sharing and taking turns)
• Conversational turn-taking
• Staying on topic (joint attention)
• Theme related vocabulary
• Pretend play/imagination
• Sustaining attention to a child initiated activity
• Sorting
• Patterns
• Rote counting and 1:1 correspondence
• Color and shape recognition
• Comparing by size, weight and amount.