Power of Play in Education

ISTE 2014 Keynote Speaker, Kevin Carroll (@kckatalyst) shared a important message about the power of play! While listening to his life story of struggle, perseverance, and dreams, I reflected on my own journey of learning and growing. Some key take aways that I've put in to action since that day: 

1. Look Up! You might be amazed at what you will find.  

http://redballproject.com/cities/portland/

2. Strive to be Someone's CEO (Chief Encouraging Officer)

 http://youtu.be/GvIiGaVeyVI

3. Connect with Others through Play! 

"Play is serious business," Kevin Carroll shared, "I often like to quote Albert Einstein, who said, 'Play is the highest form of research'. "

My first year of teaching included 41 busy, active, and curious kindergarteners. I would watch them "in play" to determine how I could best help them with reading skills. What did they enjoy talking about? I would then search for books that they might like. I observed these students as they shared their snacks with a friend. How did they count? What strategies did they already know? Looking back on teaching kindergarten, I spent a lot of time allowing play in the classroom. What if Albert Einstein was correct about play, is this the kind of assessment that can keep our learning ignited?

I'm willing to give it a try!