Creating Playful Spaces: Invitations to Engage, Discover, and Learn

child-size binoculars | magnifying glass | collection jar | bug catcher

How Things Work In The Yard by Lisa Campbell Ernst

I am a HUGE believer that the physical environment plays a powerful role in the behavior of children. In both the Playful Learning Spaces eCourse and the Playful Learning 101 miniCourse, I go in-depth about how the presentation of simple invitations can inspire children to engage in meaningful activities.

What I love about creating these invitations is that they are easy (you don’t have to tackle that scary closet) and you can use materials and activities that you already have on hand. It helps to think of these invitations as a way to highlight your child’s underused supplies, games or toys. It is amazing how putting together a few thoughtfully selected items on/in a tray, bin, or basket can reawaken a child’s interest.

And, here comes the best part, all you have to do is leave them out for your child to discover. You don’t have to say a thing!

Here are some of our most recent invitations: