Pre-K Spot Talks: Season 7, Episode 2 - Let's Talk: Play, Libraries, and Books with Jenn Hawkes

Join us in this enlightening episode of Pre-K Spot Talks as host Melissa welcomes Jenn Hawks, an educator and librarian passionate about intertwining the magic of books with the joy of play. With over two decades in early childhood education, Jen shares her journey from teacher to librarian and the significance of play in fostering meaningful learning experiences.

Episode Highlights:

Meet Jenn: 

Discover Jenn’s inspiring path from pursuing a degree in psychology at Columbia University to becoming the K2 librarian in her community. With a wealth of experience as a teacher and UPK administrator, Jen offers invaluable insights into adapting to new roles in education.

Play as a Learning Tool: 

Jenn recounts a transformative interaction with a concerned parent about the value of play in the classroom. Learn how her approach emphasizes genuine learning that flourishes through play, challenging conventional beliefs surrounding worksheets and formal assessments.

Revamping the Library Experience:

Explore how Jenn intends to transform the library into a vibrant learning hub where reading meets interactive play. She shares creative ideas for nurturing engagement through sensory activities and collaborative games tailored to diverse learning needs.

Key Takeaways for Educators and Parents:

- Understand that play is an essential component of education, enhancing problem-solving skills and creativity.  

- Foster a love for books by incorporating play-inspired literature that encourages exploration and emotional learning. Recommended titles include Heather Shoemaker’s thought-provoking works and other classics that spark imagination.  

- Recognize the importance of adapting lesson plans to meet children's emotional and cognitive needs, creating a flexible and joyous learning environment.

Advocating for Library Resources:

Jenn discusses the disparities in library support across educational districts and underscores the role of dedicated librarians in providing equitable access to literature. This conversation highlights the need for advocacy to ensure all children benefit from quality educational resources.

In Closing:

Join us as we delve deeper into Jenn's insights and her innovative approaches to early childhood education. Together, we can foster environments where children thrive, learn joyfully, and express themselves creatively. 

Action Steps:

- Engage with Play: Encourage your children to indulge in various forms of play that stimulate curiosity and creativity. Consider materials that promote open-ended exploration.

- Explore Literature: Introduce books that inspire discussions about identity, acceptance, and emotional growth in your child’s library.

- Advocate for Access: Support initiatives that aim to enhance library resources in your local schools to ensure every child has access to the joy of reading.

Tune in for an episode filled with actionable insights and expert perspectives that will inspire you to embrace play as an integral part of early childhood education! 

Don’t forget to subscribe and join the conversation on social media!

Find Jenn here on Instagram @readitagainmsjenn

Check out her You Tube Channel Readitagainmsjenn

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