The role of ‘play’ in how young children learn has been well documented over the years by many educationalists, psychologists, researchers, and practitioners. The work and findings of Frobel, Vygotsky, Montessori, Gardner and many others have greatly influenced our practice at St. Colum’s Pre- School.

We have a child-centred and holistic approach to teaching and learning.

During their morning at the pre-school children have access to a variety of indoor and outdoor play activities that are planned around their interests and set up to facilitate learning that is appropriate to their age and stage of development. There are play opportunities in the home corner and roleplay area, art and craft area, sand, water and sensory trays, construction area, playdough area, small world play and table- top play.

Play at each of these areas gives children the opportunity to express themselves, explore language freely, explore feelings and find out about themselves and others, develop co-operation, care, consideration and control, exercise choice and make decisions, use mathematical language and develop mathematical concepts, develop a range of motor skills. Language skills that are developed through play are the basis of reading and writing.

( Use photographs to accompany of Easel, Climbing frame, Home Corner, Home Kitchen.)