HOW DOES LEARNING HAPPEN ? Bite Size Overview part three


“ENGAGEMENT” refers to a state of being genuinely involved and interested in what one is doing.
Optimal conditions for learning occur when we are fully engaged.




For children, this happens in play that evolves from the child’s natural curiosity – active play that allows children to explore with their bodies, minds, and senses, stimulating them to ask questions, test theories, solve problems, engage in creative thinking, and make meaning of the world around them.


How Does Learning Happen? 
Outlines how RECURRING THEMES from research, theory, and practice suggest that HIGH-QUALITY EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS:

ESTABLISH positive, responsive relationships with children and their families;



VALUE CHILDREN as individuals and as active and competent contributors with their own interests and points of view;


RECOGNIZE THE CONNECTION between emotional wellbeing and social and cognitive development and the importance of focusing on these areas holistically;


PROVIDE ENVIRONMENTS and experiences for children to explore ideas, investigate their theories, and interact with others in play;


ENGAGE WITH FAMILIES and support each child within the context of his or her family, recognizing that family and child well-being are inextricably linked;


PROVIDE ONGOING OPPORTUNITIES for educators to engage in critical reflection and discussion with others about pedagogy and practice to support continuous professional learning and growth.

Part 3 of 4: Read the next bite-size overview.

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