HEM - Children Learning Through Play

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FULL - Emergent Curriculum and Loose Parts: Playfully Learning and Being Intentional

We all know we are more focused and learn easier when we are learning about topics that are interesting to us. Emergent curriculum is all about children of all ages learning skills while being engaged in what interests them. We will walk through the Emergent process starting with how to observe children’s interactions, reflect on those observations to make meaning of them, explore how to create activities and environmental enhancements to help them dig deeper in their exploration and learning, and then finally creating documentation to make that learning visible to the children, their peers, families, and others.

Loose parts look are inexpensive, open ended materials that allow children to be innovative and creative. They support growth and learning in children of all ages and all skill levels. They also promote learning in all developmental domains and curriculum areas. When loose parts are used within emergent curriculum, children’s learning and creativity is endless.

Presenter: Cindy Curry, ECEIII, CAE, Forest & Nature School Practitioner



Cindy has been in the field of Early Childhood Education for over 34 years. She has worked the front lines and been a director in various child care programs and operated a group family child care program with a large focus on outdoors and nature play. Currently she operates Growing Wild (a forest and nature program), instructs part time at Red River College, Portage la Prairie Campus and is an active advocate for children.

Cindy believes we never stop learning and loves inspiring others who work with children to want to do the best they can.

FULL - Just Let Them Play Inside & Outside: A Journey in Understanding How Children Learn

We have heard “children learn best through play” but what does this mean? How do children learn through play? Join me as we explore what exactly happens when children are allowed the time, space, and materials to play. We will look at developmental domains, curriculum areas, emergent curriculum, schema theory, risky play and how this all fits with children playing.

We will push the boundaries of traditional practices. Anything we can do inside, we can do outside! Children who struggle in a typical classroom, often become the leaders when they are allowed to be outdoors. We will dig deep into why we do what we do with children and where we might want to make some changes.

Presenter: Cindy Curry, ECEIII, CAE, Forest & Nature School Practitioner



Cindy has been in the field of Early Childhood Education for over 34 years. She has worked the front lines and been a director in various child care programs and operated a group family child care program with a large focus on outdoors and nature play. Currently she operates Growing Wild (a forest and nature program), instructs part time at Red River College, Portage la Prairie Campus and is an active advocate for children.

Cindy believes we never stop learning and loves inspiring others who work with children to want to do the best they can.