On Wednesday, February 5th Moharimet (MOH) participated in the Global Day of Play.  Instead of their usual instruction, MOH students were given ample time for free play without the use of screens, structured games, or adult direction.  Research shows that free play allows children to build stronger creativity, problem-solving skills and healthy social/emotional interactions.  Students were supervised at all times, but teachers were asked not to resort to using play for teachable moments, but instead let the children form and develop their own conclusions and innovative solutions.

All students were allowed and encouraged to bring in one item that could be shared during the day, as long as it was not electronic, too fragile or had so many pieces that parts could be easily lost.  In addition, spaces outside the classrooms were set up with items inspiring different types of play such as constructive play, social play, imaginative play, artistic play, musical play, physical play, and games with rules.  Students still followed their daily schedule, but within each learning space they simply played.   

The inaugural Global Day of Play was February 4, 2015 with about 65,000 participants from all over the world.  Each year, the number of participants has increased.  A world map showing where other children were also participating in the Day of Play was shared with our students.  For more information please visit:  Global Day of Play.

MOH students gather together to make bubbles.

A student using fine motor skills to create a fly fishing tie.