Play-based Learning in New Hampshire's Kindergarten Classrooms

Play is essential to children's learning and development. Yet pressures to meet academic standards has reduced the amount of dedicated playtime children have at school--even as early as kindergarten. This video showcases two kindergarten teachers using a guided play model to offer academically enriching play opportunities to their students in New Hampshire. Through guided play, teachers bring structured and intentional play into the classroom, while still providing opportunities for children to follow their natural curiosity and desire for social interaction with their peers.

The video highlights the work of the New Hampshire Partnership to Increase Early Learning Outcomes through Play--a partnership between REL Northeast & Islands and the New Hampshire Department of Education.