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Why Play?

How Does Play-Based Learning Look at Each Age?

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At Paddington, all children begin the day with choice time. Each classroom has creative, ever-changing choice tables, plus all areas of the classroom are set up to explore texture, shapes, varying art mediums, building materials, and much more! This free play allows children to choose any activity that is offered.

​Paddington teachers act as facilitators in the classroom, supporting children’s play. They allow for free explorations as well as prompting questions such as "I see you have built a road here, how could this road turn toward a tunnel? Or, I see you are painting with your fingers, what are you creating? How does the paint feel?"

Children learn through play and all subjects (Play, Social Emotional, Physical – Fine Motor & Gross Motor, Language, Cognitive, Literacy, Math, Science, Social Studies, Creative and English Language Acquisition) are woven into the day through integrated curriculums. Here are additional professional articles on a play-based philosophy. 
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​We are a child-centered school, which is demonstrated in and outside the classroom. Developmentally appropriate practices and consideration of each child's age and stage are part of planning any activity. At Paddington, the process is valued over the product. We encourage children to dive in and get messy, take risks and try things that make them reach just outside their comfort zone. We foster a joyful learning environment within a nurturing community of teachers and families and know that through play children get to the next level of learning to further their understanding of the world.

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  • Home
    • Greeting from Head of School
    • Strategic Plan
    • History >
      • Colorado State Historic Designation
    • Giving >
      • Annual Giving
      • Annual Report
    • Blog
    • Kind Words
    • In the News
  • Why Play at Paddington?
    • Why Play?
    • Curriculum
    • Social Emotional Learning
    • Diversity, Equity and Inclusion >
      • Glossary of Terms
      • Affinity Group: Parents of Children of Color
      • Family Toolkit
    • Outdoor Classroom
    • Our Team >
      • Meet Our Teachers
      • Meet Our Administrators
      • Meet Our Staff
      • Meet Our Board
      • Meet Our PFA
      • Professional Development
    • Career Opportunities
  • Admission
    • Admission
    • Class Offerings
    • Tuition & Payment Options
    • Financial Assistance
    • Summer Camp
    • Inquire or Schedule a Tour
  • Resources
    • Great Books for Children
    • 1,000 Books by Kindergarten
    • Play-Based Articles
    • DEI Family Toolkit
    • Recommended Reading for Separation Anxiety
  • Current Families
    • Important Forms
    • All Aboard!
    • Handbook & Directory
    • Calendar
    • Class Lists 2022-23
    • Paddington Covid Dashboard
    • Gift Giving at Paddington
  • Contact