Teaching Supplies & Child Care

Rediscovering Kindergarten: Embracing Play & Joy in Learning - Paperback

Rediscovering Kindergarten: Embracing Play & Joy in Learning - Paperback - Main image
$14.85 $23.95 In stock

Category: Classroom Management

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.



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Customer Reviews (4.7 / 5 · 3 reviews)

Sophia S. ★★★★★

Reading the chapters on unstructured free play felt like getting permission to slow down, and I’ve already swapped two worksheet blocks for story-acting time. It’s the first teaching book that made me laugh out loud while nodding along.

Carter ★★★★★

This book was exactly the reminder I needed to bring back unstructured playtime in my classroom. The practical ideas for replacing rigid schedules with more joyful, child-led activities are already making a difference.

Ellie ★★★★☆

I was hoping for more concrete classroom strategies, but the book's core message about balancing play with academics is refreshing and well-argued. It’s a good starting point for rethinking our rigid schedules.