Creating a Play-based Early Childhood Classroom

Course Description

This course examines how play-based learning supports the development of essential cognitive and behavioral skills in children from birth to age 5. Participants will explore the characteristics of play-based learning, identify developmental stages of play, and consider how purposeful play experiences can support young children’s growth and learning.

Educators will learn strategies for creating inclusive, intentional classroom environments that balance child-led exploration with purposeful opportunities for learning. Using the Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF) as a guide, participants will consider how classroom spaces, materials, and activities can support development across the early childhood years.

The course will also explore ways to incorporate foundational literacy and Science of Reading principles into play-based experiences. Participants will consider practical approaches for supporting early language and literacy development while preserving the engagement, exploration, and interaction that are central to a play-based classroom.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

• Define the characteristics of play-based learning and explain its impact on early childhood development.
• Identify developmental stages of play and connect them to the Early Learning Outcomes Framework (ELOF).
• Create inclusive classroom spaces with intention to support play, exploration, and learning.
• Apply Science of Reading principles within play-based activities to support early language and literacy skills.

Course Details:

Date: Register anytime between August 21, 2026 – August 20, 2027
Instructor: Marisa Dahl (marisa@growprofessionally.com)
Course #: EDIA 611
Number of License Renewal/Graduate Credits: 1
Registration Deadline: Last day to register is Friday, August 20th 2027 by 5:00 p.m.