Knowing what to look for....

It is important that childcare providers know what to look for when they see a child playing with a toy. It usually isn't JUST playing. Children learn through simple play. In the photos below, you will see that Emma was having fun playing with the stackers. She was not directed to play with them she initiated it on her own. She tried many configurations with the stackers. When she had difficulty getting them in the right order she took them apart and would re-stack them. After several minutes she was able to correctly stack the toys in order! She was really proud of herself for accomplishing it! ************** Math Foundations were met during this child-initiated activity: Mathematics - Problem Solving (F.6.15): Use trial and error to solve problems. (Age 3-5) Mathematics - Problem Solving (F.6.19): See a simple task through to completion (Age 3-5) You can view the "FOUNDATIONS to the Indiana Academic Standards for Young Children from Birth to Age 5" by going to the Indiana.gov website: http://www.doe.in.gov/primetime/foundations.html