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Kids Learn at Recess!
How Children Learn Through Play
By Mark Stackpole
A puzzle of the United States worked the same way. Once her older daughter could put the puzzle together, she began to learn the capitals and directions (north, south, east and west rather than right and left). All of it was fun and educational, and none of it was homework.
"Our TV is never on, not so much because we prohibit it, but because our day is so full of activities that there is no time for it," Ozaki says. "I tend to sacrifice housework to do educational activities with the children, so our home is a mess, but it's worth it."
One of the subjects that parents often find difficult to incorporate into general play is science. Many times, this is because parents are intimidated and uncomfortable with their own knowledge of science in the first place.
Jason Lindsey is working to change all of that. A meteorologist and science reporter for KFVS-TV, located in Cape Girardeau, Mo., Lindsey does more than simply provide weather reports. In fact, he has been instrumental in getting several mayors and even a congresswoman to declare October 3 as "Science Day" in their respective jurisdictions.
As a parent and scientist, he is committed to helping children and families learn more about science through fun activities rather than just lesson plans. "Kids are always eager to learn something new," Lindsey says. "That's why it is important for adults to take time and incorporate educational elements. It will encourage them to look for learning opportunities as they grow older. Bottom line – you'll find your children searching for ways to learn if you take the time to show them that they can learn not just in the classroom, but anywhere."
