June 2026 Early Childhood Days of Play

Sensory and fine motor activities can sometimes be messy in a classroom, but that's okay! Our young learners should have the opportunity to explore different textures, helping to develop their small hands for more complex tasks ahead. This session discusses the importance of sensory and fine motor activities, examples of materials and where to find them, and shows implementation in pre-K classrooms. Teachers will also get to make their own sensory box!

Many early childhood professionals agree that young children learn best through play, yet its value is often challenged by calls for increased academic rigor. This session explores a research-based framework grounded in Vygotsky’s theory, positioning play as a critical driver of development. Participants will examine how pretend play supports language and literacy, and how construction play and games build mathematical thinking. The session also provides practical strategies for intentionally supporting and scaffolding play in preschool classrooms, helping educators balance meaningful play with strong learning outcomes.

Many early childhood professionals agree that young children learn best through play, yet its value is often challenged by calls for increased academic rigor. This session explores a research-based framework grounded in Vygotsky’s theory, positioning play as a critical driver of development. Participants will examine how pretend play supports language and literacy, and how construction play and games build mathematical thinking. The session also provides practical strategies for intentionally supporting and scaffolding play in preschool classrooms, helping educators balance meaningful play with strong learning outcomes.