Overview

Kindergarten Shouldn't Be the New First Grade The pressure to accelerate academics in kindergarten has led to rigid schedules, seated classwork, and a decline in joyful learning. Rediscovering Kindergarten: Embracing Play & Joy in Learning offers a powerful call to reimagine kindergarten as a place where play-based learning and challenging academic content go hand in hand. Author Laura Bornfreund--education policy expert and nationally recognized voice in early childhood--argues for developmentally appropriate practice that supports the whole child. Drawing from research and real-world examples, this book shares ideas for teaching that nurtures curiosity, social-emotional development, and equity. For educators, leaders, and advocates, this is a practical and inspiring guide to reclaiming kindergarten from push-down academics to restore it to what it was always meant to be: playful exploration full of rich learning. Discover how to: - Create a classroom environment where play supports rigorous learning - Build developmentally appropriate, standards-aligned curriculum - Support social-emotional learning as foundational to academic success - Engage families and administrators in advocating for change - Understand the research behind early learning and achievement gaps - Position kindergarten within the pre-K-3 continuum of learning Rediscovering Kindergarten is a guide for building a learning environment that fosters curiosity, equity, and joyful growth--without sacrificing academic excellence.

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9781636501789

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Laura Bornfreund, MPA, is a senior fellow in education policy and the former director of early and elementary education policy at New America. She's a frequent contributor to major media outlets such as Slate, CNN, The Hechinger Report, Education Week, and The Atlantic. Her work centers on strengthening the pre-K to third grade continuum to the success of all young learners.

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