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Importance of Play in Finnish Early Childhood Education

5.0 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star
Based on 3 ratings
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Shirin Kulkarni

Dive into the heart of Finnish early childhood education with our course on Play-Centric Pedagogy. Finland's approach to early childhood education exemplifies a commitment to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment that respects and honors the unique qualities of each child. The success of this model has sparked international interest, serving as an inspiration for rethinking early childhood education worldwide.

Read more

Dive into the heart of Finnish early childhood education with our course on Play-Centric Pedagogy. Finland's approach to early childhood education exemplifies a commitment to creating a nurturing and stimulating environment that respects and honors the unique qualities of each child. The success of this model has sparked international interest, serving as an inspiration for rethinking early childhood education worldwide.

Explore the renowned Finnish approach to integrating play seamlessly into early learning. Gain practical insights into implementation, understand its impact on child development, and discover strategies for effective teaching. This course is your gateway to embracing the transformative power of play in early childhood education, inspired by the globally celebrated Finnish model.

This course is useful for early childhood educators who want to bring change in their ways of engaging children. Join us on this enriching journey today.

The key areas of the course:

1. How much time is given to play in Finnish daycares?

2. How to plan the daily routine in the Finnish daycares and what are the considerations

3. If most of the time the children are playing, then when do they learn?

4. Structured play Vs Free Play

5. Is there any research foundation for the use of play in early childhood education? Explaining the neurological basis for the play

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Dive into the heart of finnish early childhood education with our course on play-centric pedagogy.
  • Explore the renowned finnish approach to integrating play seamlessly into early learning.
  • Gain practical insights into implementation, understand its impact on child development, and discover strategies for effective teaching.
  • Embrace the transformative power of play in early childhood education, inspired by the globally celebrated finnish model.

Syllabus

Introduction

Dive into the heart of Finnish early childhood education with our course on Play-Centric Pedagogy. Explore the renowned Finnish approach to integrating play seamlessly into early learning. Gain practical insights into implementation, understand its impact on child development, and discover strategies for effective teaching. This course is your gateway to embracing the transformative power of play in early childhood education, inspired by the globally celebrated Finnish model. Join us on this enriching journey today.

This course is useful for early childhood educators who want to bring change in their ways of engaging children.

Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the Finnish model, which is globally celebrated and may inspire educators to rethink their approaches to early childhood education
Provides practical insights into implementing play-centric pedagogy, which can be directly applied in early childhood education settings
Examines the neurological basis for play, which may deepen educators' understanding of its importance in child development
Discusses the student-teacher ratio in Finnish daycares, which may not be feasible in all educational contexts due to resource constraints
Addresses the challenge of cultivating creativity in big classrooms, which is a common concern for educators in various settings

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Reviews summary

Play-centric approach in finnish ece

Learners say this course offers an inspiring perspective and a strong research foundation on the Finnish play-centric approach to early childhood education. Many appreciate how it explains the importance of play and clarifies concepts like structured vs free play. While it provides useful insights and some tips, a common theme is the need for more practical 'how-to' examples and guidance on implementing the principles in diverse classroom settings or outside of Finland. Overall, students find it a valuable theoretical introduction, but some felt it lacked sufficient detail for immediate, large-scale application.
Explains key ideas clearly.
"It explained the daily routine and learning concepts well. I appreciated the focus on the importance of play..."
"Solid information presented clearly. The section on discipline during free play was particularly helpful."
"Really enjoyed learning about the daily routine and the philosophy behind 'late' reading/writing."
"The difference between structured and free play was explained well."
Explains the scientific basis for play.
"The modules on... the research basis were incredibly insightful."
"...provided solid arguments rooted in research. The comparisons to other systems were illuminating."
"The insights into the neurobiology of play were fascinating."
"The research background provided a strong foundation."
Provides new insights on play's value.
"Absolutely loved this course! It completely shifted my perspective on integrating play."
"Transformative! This course articulated beautifully why play is not just downtime but essential learning."
"Excellent course! It validated my beliefs about child-led play and provided solid arguments..."
"Inspiring and well-structured. It reinforced my commitment to play-based learning..."
Lacks concrete implementation strategies.
"I was hoping for more concrete 'how-to' examples. It felt very theoretical."
"...wished for more in-depth examples of implementation strategies in diverse settings."
"Translating it to my large class size feels challenging based on the content provided."
"Very disappointing. Too abstract and didn't provide actionable strategies..."
"Good introduction, but could be more in-depth on applying principles in non-Finnish contexts."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Importance of Play in Finnish Early Childhood Education with these activities:
The Power of Play: Learning What Comes Naturally
Provide a deeper understanding of the theoretical foundations of play-based learning.
View The Power of Play: Learning What Comes Naturally on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Power of Play'.
  • Read the book, focusing on chapters related to cognitive and social development.
  • Take notes on key concepts and examples of play-based learning.
Review Child Development Theories
Reinforce foundational knowledge of child development theories to better understand the impact of play on children's learning and growth.
Browse courses on Attachment Theory
Show steps
  • Review notes from previous courses on child development.
  • Research key child development theories online.
  • Summarize the main points of each theory.
Document a Play Session
Apply course concepts by observing and documenting a play session, analyzing its impact on children's learning and development.
Show steps
  • Observe a play session in a daycare or home setting.
  • Document the children's interactions and activities.
  • Analyze the play session based on course concepts.
  • Write a report summarizing your observations and analysis.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Design a Play-Based Learning Activity
Apply course knowledge by designing a play-based learning activity that aligns with Finnish ECE principles.
Show steps
  • Research different types of play-based learning activities.
  • Choose a specific learning objective for the activity.
  • Design the activity, considering materials and instructions.
  • Pilot test the activity with a small group of children.
  • Refine the activity based on feedback.
Let the Children Play: How More Play Can Help Our Kids Thrive
Gain a broader perspective on the importance of play in children's lives and how to advocate for play-based learning.
View Let the Children Play: For the Learning, Well... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Let the Children Play'.
  • Read the book, paying attention to the arguments for play and the strategies for promoting it.
  • Reflect on how the book's ideas relate to your own practice.
Volunteer at a Play-Based Program
Gain practical experience in implementing play-based learning by volunteering at a program that emphasizes play.
Show steps
  • Identify a local play-based program or daycare.
  • Contact the program and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Volunteer at the program, assisting with play activities.
  • Reflect on your experiences and how they relate to course concepts.
Create a Presentation on Finnish Play Pedagogy
Deepen understanding and share knowledge by creating a presentation on the key principles and practices of Finnish play pedagogy.
Show steps
  • Research the key principles of Finnish play pedagogy.
  • Gather examples of play-based learning activities from Finland.
  • Create a presentation outlining the principles and examples.
  • Practice delivering the presentation.

Career center

Learners who complete Importance of Play in Finnish Early Childhood Education will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Early Childhood Educator
An early childhood educator fosters learning and development in young children. This professional designs and implements play-based activities and lesson plans. This course emphasizes the importance of play, which is central to early childhood education. By learning how Finnish daycares prioritize play and how to design and implement play-based learning, you can make your classroom a more engaging and effective learning environment. Understanding structured play versus free play helps you create a balanced approach to early childhood education. Early childhood educators interested in integrating play into their curriculum benefit from this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Early Childhood Educator
Preschool Teacher
A preschool teacher educates and cares for children before they enter kindergarten. Preschool teachers create lesson plans and activities that promote social, emotional, and intellectual development. This course offers a deeper understanding of how to leverage play, a key element in preschool, to enhance learning. By exploring the Finnish model of play-centric pedagogy, preschool teachers can discover new strategies for engaging children and fostering their development. The course materials on designing playtime and understanding the difference between structured and free play can be directly applied to improve classroom practices. Any preschool teacher looking to create a more playful and effective learning environment should consider this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Preschool Teacher
Daycare Director
A daycare director is responsible for overseeing the daily operations and educational programs of a daycare facility. The daycare director ensures a safe and nurturing environment for children. This course can help a daycare director enhance their understanding of play-based learning, inspired by the Finnish model. You will gain insights into designing play time, balancing structured and free play, and implementing play pedagogy. The course may provide the director with the ability to improve the overall quality of the daycare's educational programs by integrating play more effectively. This course gives a daycare director information to help guide educators and their approach to teaching and play.
See salaries and explore the career path for Daycare Director
Childcare Provider
A childcare provider cares for children in various settings, such as daycare centers, private homes, or preschools. They ensure children's safety, provide stimulating activities, and promote their development. A childcare provider learns new techniques for integrating play-based learning into their daily routines. The course offers practical strategies for designing playtime, differentiating between structured and free play, and addressing discipline during free play. Childcare providers can use these techniques to create a more engaging and enriching environment for the children in their care. Given the course's focus on practical implementation, childcare providers at every level of experience find value in the material.
See salaries and explore the career path for Childcare Provider
Kindergarten Teacher
A kindergarten teacher introduces young children to formal education, creating a foundation for future learning. They use play-based activities to teach essential skills and concepts. With its emphasis on the Finnish model of play-centric pedagogy, this course can help a kindergarten teacher enhance their approach. The course materials on designing playtime, balancing structured and free play, can be directly applied to improve engagement in the classroom. By embracing the transformative power of play, kindergarten teachers can create a more positive and effective learning environment.
See salaries and explore the career path for Kindergarten Teacher
Curriculum Developer
A curriculum developer designs and creates educational materials and programs. They develop curricula that align with educational standards and learning objectives. This course, which explores the Finnish approach to play-centric pedagogy, can help a curriculum developer design more engaging and effective early childhood programs. Learning how play is integrated into Finnish daycares and how to balance structured and free play helps in crafting curricula that promote child development and learning. This course offers curriculum developers insights into a globally celebrated model of early childhood education, potentially inspiring more innovative and effective designs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Curriculum Developer
Educational Consultant
An educational consultant advises schools and educational organizations on best practices and strategies for improvement. They help implement effective teaching methods and curriculum development. This course on Finnish early childhood education, with its focus on play, is relevant to an educational consultant. The course provides insights into a globally recognized approach to early learning. The course inspires a consultant to recommend changes based on the Finnish ECE model to various institutions. Understanding the impact of play on child development and strategies for its effective implementation increases an educational consulant's skill set.
See salaries and explore the career path for Educational Consultant
Early Intervention Specialist
An early intervention specialist works with infants and young children who have developmental delays or disabilities. The specialist develops and implements individualized plans to support their growth. This course focuses on the Finnish approach to play-centric pedagogy. The course's insights into the neurological basis for play and the importance of play for development can help an early intervention specialist enhance their methods. The course may allow the specialist to tailor interventions that leverage the power of play to support children's unique needs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Early Intervention Specialist
Family Support Specialist
A family support specialist works with families of young children to provide guidance, resources, and support. They help families create nurturing home environments that promote child development. This course is dedicated to the importance of play in early childhood education. The course can help a family support specialist educate parents on the benefits of play. The specialist may share the Finnish model of play-centric pedagogy, helping families create more engaging and supportive home environments where children can thrive.
See salaries and explore the career path for Family Support Specialist
Education Policy Analyst
An education policy analyst researches and evaluates educational policies and programs, providing recommendations for improvement. They analyze the effectiveness of different approaches to education. By exploring the Finnish model of play-centric pedagogy, this course offers insights into a globally celebrated approach to early learning. The course may allow the analyst to assess the potential benefits of integrating play more fully into educational policies and programs. Education policy analysts can leverage this knowledge to advocate for evidence-based practices that support child development and learning.
See salaries and explore the career path for Education Policy Analyst
Special Education Teacher
A special education teacher works with students who have a wide range of learning, mental, emotional, and physical disabilities. Understanding how to create more inclusive play environments is valuable. The course offers insights into the neurological basis for play. A special education teacher may discover new techniques for adapting playtime to meet the diverse needs of all students. Special education teachers often require an advanced degree.
See salaries and explore the career path for Special Education Teacher
Elementary School Teacher
An elementary school teacher educates children in the primary grades, typically from first through fifth grade. Although this course focuses on early childhood education, the principles of play-based learning can extend to elementary school. The course includes material relating to continuing play pedagogy in primary grades. An elementary school teacher may determine the value of integrating play into the classroom. This course provides a valuable perspective on how to make learning more engaging and effective throughout elementary school.
See salaries and explore the career path for Elementary School Teacher
Children's Librarian
A children's librarian creates and manages library programs and resources for children. They promote literacy and a love of reading through engaging activities and events. While the course is focused on early childhood education, the principles of play-based learning may be useful. The course may inspire a children's librarian to incorporate more play into their programs and activities. The librarian may also be able to create a more engaging and welcoming environment for young library patrons.
See salaries and explore the career path for Children's Librarian
Social Worker
A social worker supports individuals and families facing a variety of challenges, including poverty, abuse, and mental health issues. While the course focuses on early childhood education, the principles of creating nurturing and supportive environments may be transferable. Social workers who deal with early childhood development may find this course relevant. The course may inform strategies for supporting children's well-being.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
School Counselor
A school counselor supports students' academic, social, and emotional development. They provide counseling, guidance, and resources to help students succeed. While the course focuses on early childhood education, the principles of creating supportive and engaging learning environments may be useful. Recognizing the importance of play, a school counselor may discover new strategies for helping children develop social and emotional skills. The Finnish approach is widely celebrated, and this course may allow that approach to inform the practices of school counselors.
See salaries and explore the career path for School Counselor

Reading list

We've selected 39 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Importance of Play in Finnish Early Childhood Education.
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The Neurobehavioral and Social-emotional...
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Teach Like a Champion 3.0
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Powerful Teaching
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Culturally Responsive Teaching and The Brain
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Trauma-Informed Teaching and IEPS
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Classroom Instruction That Works
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Better Than Carrots or Sticks
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Teaching to Transgress
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Teaching Self-Discipline
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Child Development
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Pedagogy of the Oppressed
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Leading Anti-Bias Early Childhood Programs
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The Hundred Languages of Children
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Teaching Twos and Threes
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Tools for Teaching
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Fredric Jones's work focuses on practical strategies for managing classroom behavior, including proximity control, body language, and incentive systems. offers detailed techniques for minimizing lost instruction time due to off-task behavior. It is considered a classic in classroom management literature.
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Radical Hope
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Offers a powerful call for educators to embrace radical hope in their teaching, particularly in challenging contexts. It encourages teachers to create inclusive and equitable learning environments that empower students and foster critical thinking. This book provides inspiration and a philosophical grounding for teaching strategies focused on social justice.
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Beyond Discipline
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Social Development
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Explores the social development of children and adolescents, focusing on how they interact with peers, family, and the community. It provides insights into the development of social skills, relationships, and self-concept.
Social Development
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Social Development
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Social Development by Ross D. Parke (2010-08-23)
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Social Development
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Children in Time and Place: Developmental and...
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Social Development (Evaluation Copy)
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Social Development, 3rd Edition
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The Redleaf Family Child Care Curriculum
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Provides a comprehensive overview of infant and toddler development and care, including topics such as feeding, sleeping, and play.
The Redleaf Family Child Care Curriculum: Teaching...
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The Redleaf Family Child Care Curriculum: Teaching...
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Understanding by Design
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Introduces the backward design framework for curriculum planning, which can indirectly impact classroom management by creating more engaging and purposeful learning experiences. Well-designed lessons can lead to fewer behavioral issues. It's more of a foundational text for instructional design that supports effective management.
[Understanding by Design, Expanded 2nd...
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The Art of Coaching
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Is aimed at instructional coaches and administrators but offers valuable insights for teachers on improving their practice, including classroom management. It emphasizes reflective practice and growth mindset, which are essential for refining management skills over time. It's more of a professional development resource.
The Art of Coaching: Effective Strategies for...
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Rating
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Effort
1 total hour
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Shirin Kulkarni
Language
English
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Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Explores the Finnish model, which is globally celebrated and may inspire educators to rethink their approaches to early childhood education
Provides practical insights into implementing play-centric pedagogy, which can be directly applied in early childhood education settings
Examines the neurological basis for play, which may deepen educators' understanding of its importance in child development
Discusses the student-teacher ratio in Finnish daycares, which may not be feasible in all educational contexts due to resource constraints
Addresses the challenge of cultivating creativity in big classrooms, which is a common concern for educators in various settings
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