Play is a natural medium for learning but many parents and school administrators underestimate its importance.  Early childhood teachers must be able to articulate the value of play to parents and administrators and understand their role in ensuring that play is effective in promoting children's development & learning.

 Materials:  None

 Steps:

1. Assume that you are a kindergarten teacher.  At parents' night, one of the parents asks, "Why don't you teach my child anything? Why do you let them play at school?"
2. Describe how you would respond to this parent to help them appreciate the value of play in children's learning.