Tamil Nadu   

Learning through play reviewed

Special Correspondent

The method helps in parenting and in day-care centres

CHENNAI: Participants from India, Pakistan, Canada and the Philippines on Thursday compared notes on the merits of `learning-through-play' techniques at the first South Asian Conference on the subject organised by the Bala Mandir Research Foundation and Hinks Dellcrest Centre, Canada.

Inaugurating the conference, Andal Damodaran of the Indian Council for Child Welfare said the concept was first introduced in crèches and `balwadis' in India. It had come a long way, with the Government taking the concept to primary schools. It would be an incentive for children to stay in school, if their first exposure to education was enjoyable.

The method also helped in parenting and in day-care centres. She hoped that one day all schools would turn child-friendly and make learning fun for children.

Physical development

Educationist S. Anandalakshmy said the concept was initially thought of as an aid to physical development of children. But, it had a certain chemistry that allowed it to reach a bigger group and serve a larger purpose. Over the years, it had emerged as a process that facilitated "contexting" of the child within the family and encouraged language and cognitive development.

`LTP Calendar'

The Foundation entered into an international partnership in 1997 with the Canadian Centre, based on the `LTP Calendar' on which the `joy of parenting' programme is based.

The calendar is a parent education resource designed by experts. It presents, through pictures, a range of activities in which parents can involve their children to promote holistic and healthy development.

There are two calendars: birth-three years, which covers eight development stages; and three-six years, which covers six development stages.

Maya Gaitonde of Bala Mandir spoke.

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