While at the National ESP Conference this week I attended a session about a University of Kentucky Extension program that features “learning through play”. Well, they had me at “play”…not only do I love to play and create, but the concept of play and practice helping us (any of us) to be more ready is the foundation of my dissertation work. This particular program, though, is very nicely meeting a need identified by their state and acted on by Extension – a great example of what Extension can do.
UK Extension has launched an innovative “Learning through Play” initiative to address kindergarten readiness by focusing on accessible, family-centered learning. The program targets various aspects of early childhood readiness by providing resources and experiences that support healthcare, professional development, childcare, family enrichment, and reading readiness. By creating a well-rounded support network, the program aims to foster stronger, more resilient communities.
The initiative, supported by state funding, brings together a coalition of local councils, collaboratives, and Kentucky’s Office of Early Childhood to create a structured plan called “Ready Families, Ready Communities, Ready Schools.” This statewide framework provides a comprehensive approach to early childhood development, incorporating family engagement, educational resources, and community involvement.
Ready Families and Communities: Virtual Learning and Career Awareness
Since 2021, Kentucky has assessed kindergarten readiness through targeted interventions, with updated evaluations conducted in 2023. Recognizing the importance of accessible learning, Extension introduced virtual learning sessions for daycare centers and parents, supporting learning extension at home. One standout feature of the program is a 12-night series of virtual bedtime stories. Each night, a different community leader — such as a police officer, librarian, or principal — reads a story focusing on career readiness, giving children a sense of the diverse roles within their communities. These sessions also introduce “code words” related to the stories, which families can collect and submit to receive a free set of 12 books. This engaging activity encourages both literacy and family bonding, laying a foundation for educational enthusiasm.
Monthly “Laugh and Learn” Events
“Laugh and Learn” sessions, held locally for families, offer monthly gatherings that provide snacks, stories, and activities to build large motor skills. These sessions provide hands-on, interactive experiences for families and young children to connect, play, and learn together. The program’s unique approach blends physical activity with learning, reinforcing skills essential for school readiness.
Resource Packs for Learning at Home
Families also receive thoughtfully curated resource packets filled with tools that support creative play and development. These packets include items like pocket dice, markers, mini whiteboards, stickers, and other little tangibles chosen to develop gross motor skills. The materials encourage ongoing engagement at home and ensure that families have access to simple and exemplary learning resources.
Through these multi-faceted approaches, Kentucky’s “Learning through Play” initiative is building a solid foundation for early learning. By bridging the gap between families and essential resources, Kentucky Extension sets a powerful example of how communities can come together to support their youngest learners.
This program was designed for use by Family Consumer Science educators, but our workshop attendees also discussed collaborating with 4-H staff and volunteers.
See more details about the success of this program here: https://kers.ca.uky.edu/core/reports/Story/s/11703/2022
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