Is it water PLAY or is it water LEARNING?

Have you noticed the way the children are drawn to the water tables every morning when they enter the playground? Imagine putting your hands into cool water on these hot summer days, feeling it drip from your fingers, the heavy feel of the water as it sloshes around the table. Water play delights the senses, but it is far more than simply a pleasurable activity for young children. This type of open ended sensory play is important for the children's development, supporting their physical, cognitive, and social growth. In sensory play there is no right or wrong way to play, leaving plenty of opportunities for decision making and problem solving.

As Drew demonstrates here, when children pour water, they are developing their physical dexterity and hand eye coordination. You can see the look of true concentration on his face! This ability to focus will be an important skill throughout his life. And by negotiating with others as they build a pipe structure or race sail boats, children have the opportunity to develop social skills. The water table provides a different structure from a play scenario in a classroom area such as a block corner because it offers defined, yet flexible places for children to work, one or two on each side of the table. Some children play side by side at the table, and others hold complex negotiations, and the water table supports each child's growth at his own level. At the same time, they use their minds as they explore why certain objects sink in water and others float or how to pour water in an upward spout. So next time you see us playing with water, take a moment to listen and watch. It has been fascinating to see the learning that goes on.