I agree wholeheartedly with the idea that we should allow children to learn through creative, imaginative play. However, the vast majority of parents are unable to keep their children out of Kindergarten for year while s/he develops the skills necessary to learn in a structured environment. The best they can do is send their child to school and allow him/her to be retained. However, the social stigma of retention prevents many from doing this, even if it's recommended by the teacher. I wish this article had offered realistic suggestions for supplementing the learning experience with activities that both appeal to the creative child and foster concrete literacy.
I agree wholeheartedly with the idea that we should allow children to learn through creative, imaginative play. However, the vast majority of parents are unable to keep their children out of Kindergarten for year while s/he develops the skills necessary to learn in a structured environment. The best they can do is send their child to school and allow him/her to be retained. However, the social stigma of retention prevents many from doing this, even if it's recommended by the teacher. I wish this article had offered realistic suggestions for supplementing the learning experience with activities that both appeal to the creative child and foster concrete literacy.