Have you ever watched a child play and wondered just how much they are learning?
At Academia de Mi Abuela (AMA), we know that play isn’t just about having fun—it’s the foundation of creativity, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of learning. For young children, play-based learning is where imagination meets growth, and every game, story, or craft is a building block for their future.
How do we bring this to life at AMA? By blending education with play, celebrating cultural diversity, and creating a strong sense of community. Let’s dive into the magic of how we make learning fun while nurturing curious, confident children.
Why is Play-Based Learning So Important?
Did you know that play is one of the most powerful tools for a child’s development? Research has shown that young children learn best when they are actively engaged in hands-on, meaningful activities. Play allows children to explore the world around them, ask questions, solve problems, and work together.
At AMA, we believe play-based learning encourages:
- Creativity: Whether children are building with blocks, painting, or storytelling, they’re learning to think outside the box.
- Critical Thinking: Games and group activities teach kids how to solve challenges, make decisions, and test their ideas.
- Social-Emotional Skills: Play teaches children teamwork, kindness, and empathy as they interact with one another.
These aren’t just skills for the classroom—they’re essential for life. Through play, children gain confidence in their abilities, curiosity about the world, and an understanding of how to work with others.
Isn’t that the kind of learning every child deserves?
Making Learning Come Alive Through Play
At AMA, every day is filled with opportunities to learn through play. In our classrooms, children participate in arts and crafts, music, storytelling, and imaginative games that are carefully designed to spark their creativity and curiosity.
Have you ever seen a child light up while making music? At AMA, students not only listen to music but make their own instruments, combining art and sound to explore rhythm, movement, and expression. These hands-on activities inspire joy while helping children develop fine motor skills, focus, and creativity.
Plus, the best part? It’s fun!
Our teachers design activities that align with AMA’s mission to honor cultural diversity and connection. Students might paint a traditional design, act out a story, or dance to rhythms from around the world. Play-based learning at AMA is about engaging every child in ways that honor their individuality while helping them grow.
How Play Connects Us All
At AMA, play is more than a tool for learning—it’s a way of connecting to each other and the world around us. Through group activities, performances, and creative expression, children learn to share space, solve problems, and appreciate the beauty in our differences. Whether they’re acting out a story, working on a craft, or sharing a meal, these moments teach children something bigger than academics. They learn kindness, teamwork, and empathy—lessons that help them thrive not just now, but for life.
We see it every day. A child proudly sharing what they’ve created. Friends working together to tell a story. Families gathering around the table at events like our Winter Recital, exchanging laughter, food, and traditions. These are the moments where bonds are built, where community comes to life, and where children feel the joy of learning together.
At AMA, play connects us all, reminding us that when we come together, we grow stronger.
Upcoming Event: Save the Date – Our December Winter Recital, Potluck, and Fundraiser
At AMA, play and learning don’t stop in the classroom—they bring us together as a community. We’re excited to announce our upcoming Winter Student Recital, Potluck, and Fundraiser on December 19, 2024. Mark your calendars now!
This special event is more than just a performance—it’s a beautiful celebration of what makes AMA unique. Families, friends, and neighbors will come together to share stories, culture, and food in a joyful, welcoming space.
What can you expect?
- Cultural Pride on Display: Our students will proudly dress in traditional attire from their own cultures, sharing their stories and heritage with the entire AMA community.
- Teamwork and Storytelling: Students will act out stories that highlight themes of teamwork, kindness, and learning about our differences. These performances will connect to broader conversations about migration, immigration, and working together to solve problems.
- A Community Potluck: Families are invited to share a meal together, bringing dishes that represent their culture. It’s a chance to celebrate the richness of our traditions while learning from one another.
- Arts, Crafts, and Music: We’ll have open art stations where families can create crafts or instruments together—fun, hands-on activities for children and adults alike!
This event is a reflection of everything we believe in at AMA: learning through creativity, celebrating diversity, and building a strong sense of community.
We can’t wait to see you there.
