Importance of Unstructured Play Time

Unstructured play time is essential for the healthy development of young children. At Acton Academy Columbus, we understand the importance of play and incorporate it into our daily routine by ensuring that students spend time outdoors every day. This allows them to explore, discover, and create in a natural environment.

As we build our new Spark Studio for ages 5-7, we are inspired by the Anji play model in preschools in China. Anji play is a concept that emphasizes the importance of child-led, unstructured play in the classroom. The idea is that children should be given the freedom to explore and discover on their own, without adult interference. This type of play allows children to develop creativity, problem-solving skills, and self-regulation.

Anji play is popular in China because it is based on the philosophy that children are capable and competent learners. It recognizes that children have an innate desire to learn and explore, and that play is a natural way for them to do so. This approach to education has been shown to be successful in promoting healthy development and lifelong learning.

At Acton Academy Columbus, we believe that Anji play is an essential part of a child's education. By giving children the freedom to explore, discover, and create on their own, we are helping to build a foundation for a lifetime of learning. We are excited to bring this approach to our new Spark Studio, and we believe that it will be a valuable addition to our school community.

In addition to the Anji play model, another approach to education that emphasizes the importance of unstructured play time is Waldorf education. Waldorf education, also known as Steiner education, is a holistic educational approach that values the connection between the child, nature and the environment.

One of the core principles of Waldorf education is the importance of unstructured play time in nature. This approach promotes the idea that children should be allowed to explore and discover the natural world on their own, without adult interference. The belief is that this type of play allows children to develop a deep connection to the environment and to develop a sense of wonder and reverence for the natural world.

At Acton Academy Columbus, we believe that unstructured play time in nature is an essential aspect of a child's education. We prioritize this by incorporating outdoor play and nature exploration into our daily routine. We understand that children learn best through hands-on experiences, and that the natural world provides an endless source of inspiration and learning opportunities.

In addition, we also incorporate other elements of Waldorf education in our curriculum, such as emphasizing on arts, storytelling, and movement to promote holistic development of children. The combination of Anji play and Waldorf education approach, emphasizes on the importance of unstructured play time and nature exploration in a child's education, which is essential for promoting healthy development and lifelong learning.

Are you looking for an alternative approach to learning? Take a tour to learn more about our Spark, Elementary, and Middle School Studios.