DEVELOPMENTAL APPROPRIATENESS OF EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION IN SOUTHERN PUNJAB: AN INSIGHT INTO THE PLAY CURRICULUM, PRACTICES AND TEACHER’S PERCEPTIONS
Abstract
Play is an important part of the preschool curriculum. This article describes in brief, play, types of play, levels of play, and the contribution of a well-managed play in a child’s socio-emotional development. Play of various types requires effective management, proper organization, and an environment suitable for such activities. This environment enables children to play safely, happily and for the length of time, they desire. Present research entitled, “Role of effective Management of Play in Socio-emotional development at Preschool Level” identifies the developmental benefits of play in learners at a preschool level. The objectives of this research were twofold. The first objective was to study various types and settings for play in preschool classes. The second objective was to discuss and examine the suitability of play structure in pre-school education and its role in the socio-emotional development of the students. The researcher has delineated foci on the development of curriculum and functional beginning of play classes. This research was a mixed-method endeavor and an outcome of survey, discussions, meetings, literature review, and personal experiences of the researchers in Pakistan. The findings of the study were based on both quantitative and qualitative data related to the current situation existing in the country. The conclusions were drawn by merging both types of data. It was concluded after brainstorming that the learning achievement deficit in primary and secondary schools is due to the low quality of pre-school education. Moreover, the majority of public sector schools have very limited facilities for various kinds of play. Teachers have a limited perception of the importance of play and its role in socio-emotional development. It is the need of the hour to ascertain a balanced and comprehensive structure and curriculum for the fulfillment of the needs and requirements of a learner’s overall development at ECE.
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