Early childhood education: Play also teaches, teachers remind in Coclé

In Coclé, Panama, educators are working to redefine the perception of early childhood education, moving beyond the common association with mere play and recreation. During the recent celebration of Early Childhood Education Week, teachers and educational authorities stressed that behind every activity lies a deliberate pedagogical plan aimed at fostering children's holistic development.

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The objective is to project the work that teachers do in the classroom. Each learning area has a pedagogical intention, and we want to make it known to the entire educational community.

Icha González, the Early Childhood Education supervisor for Coclé, explained that the initiative's primary purpose is to illuminate the daily work of teachers in the classroom. "The objective is to showcase the work that teachers do in the classroom. Each learning area has a pedagogical intention, and we want to make it known to the entire educational community," she stated. This effort seeks to demonstrate that activities like coloring and drawing are not just pastimes but are integral components of a structured learning process.

González highlighted that approximately 320 early childhood educators work in the province, serving in 225 educational centers and 102 Integral Attention Early Childhood Centers (Cepacei). A key message conveyed during the week was that play, while central, is a fundamental vehicle for learning. "Many parents see the initial level only as play, but we want them to know that play is fundamental. Through play, they learn, develop creativity, and imagination," she affirmed.

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Many parents see the initial level only as play, but we want them to know that play is fundamental. Through play, they learn, develop creativity, and imagination.

Teachers like Guillermina Arosemena emphasized that these events also strengthen integration among schools and help children connect with activities specific to this educational stage. Arosemena shared an example of a dance performance, "La Raspa," prepared by her students, noting the joy and sense of accomplishment it brought them. She reiterated that daily classroom work involves careful tracking and routines crucial for maintaining a structured learning environment that goes far beyond simple coloring or drawing exercises.

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We brought a dance called La Raspa. Six girls performed it, and they definitely enjoyed it a lot. One of them told me: 'I feel so excited, teacher.' For us, it is also an achievement that the child feels involved and identifies with this beautiful week, which is Early Childhood Education Week.