We all know the magic of center time: a room buzzing with creativity, exploration, and little minds learning through play. But let's be honest, sometimes center time can feel more like...chaos erupting.

Keeping children engaged can be challenging. Today I want to share with you 5 strategies that have helped guide me to making my free play centers more enjoyable for all!

Topics Discussed:

• Change it up
• Use hands-on materials
• Put it on the table
• Use novelty
• Play in the center

Related Episodes or Blogposts:

• Blogpost: Free Play + Playful Learning = Engaged Centers
• Podcast: Episode 14- Free Play + Playful Learning = Engaged Centers
• Blogpost: Preschool Centers: Free Choice or Rotation?
• Podcast: Episode 48- Preschool Centers: Free Choice or Rotation?

Connect with Ashley

• Follow on Instagram @lovelycommotion
• Join the Lovely Preschool Teachers Facebook Group

More About the Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast

Are you a busy preschool teacher who loves gaining new ideas, perspectives, and inspiration for your classroom? The Lovely Preschool Teachers Podcast is here to help you up your confidence in educating early learners in a quick, actionable way!

As an early educator who is still in the classroom, Ashley Rives will share the ins and outs of how she runs her classroom in a play-based, child-centered way. Each week, expect a new episode focused on actionable strategies to level up your abilities and confidence as a preschool teacher.

Ashley Rives is an early educator with over 17 years of experience and a strong passion to help teachers implement child-centered learning in preschool classrooms all over the world. You can follow her on Instagram @lovelycommotion or learn more at the Lovely Commotion Preschool Resources website: www.lovelycommotion.com