The research is clear: Play is a
critical part of the learning process for young children. Early childhood
educators have the opportunity to deeply and meaningfully scaffold children's
learning by curating and organizing the "stuff" children love to play with
most. With this book, discover ideas for both familiar and new play materials
and how those materials support the cognitive, social and emotional, and
physical learning and development of children ages 3 to 5.

This practical, easy-to-read resource

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Presents
foundational information organized around the who, why, how, and what of using
play materials to support preschoolers' learning and development

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Provides
suggestions for play materials and describes why they are useful for different
aspects related to each learning and development domain

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Offers
activity ideas as well as examples of questions to ask and comments to make
that can extend children's understanding as they engage in play

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Includes
tips for developmentally appropriate ways to embed technology in children's
play

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Recommends
more than 90 children's books that go hand-in-hand with each learning and
development domain

Be inspired to take a look at your early
learning setting through fresh eyes and enhance the quality of your program by
providing play materials and experiences that nurture the learning,
development, and well-being of each preschooler you teach.