EDU 5170 Advanced Creative Arts and Learning Through Play

3 Hours

This course focuses on the importance of creative arts and play in early childhood education, emphasizing their role in promoting holistic development and learning in young children. Candidates will explore theories of play, the use of various art forms (visual art, music, movement, and drama), and the integration of these creative elements into developmentally appropriate and inclusive curriculum planning. Candidates will also examine how play and the arts can support children’s cognitive, social-emotional, language, and physical development, particularly for learners with diverse abilities, including those with special needs. The course will provide opportunities to develop hands-on strategies for integrating creative arts and play in early childhood classrooms, with a focus on fostering creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration among children.