Explore Through Movement & Play

“Play is child’s work.” The concept of play being the work of children has been widely promoted by child psychologists and educators for many years. Children can and do learn while creating their own play experiences. It’s an important process, so how can you help your child play to learn?

The Greenville County Library System has embraced The Palmetto Basics, a county-wide kindergarten readiness initiative brought to South Carolina by Greenville First Steps. Experts tell us that exploring these five areas of learning early in your child’s life can make a big impact on later school success.

By incorporating these evidence-based principles into your activities with young children, you help to foster school readiness. And don’t worry! You are almost certainly already using the Palmetto Basics without knowing it. For example, as you explore and move with your child, you’re also Maximizing Love and Managing Stress, for both you and your child, just by spending time together.

Find downloadable lists of suggested activities representing each of the Palmetto Basics at greenvillelibrary.org/little-learners-club. Choose activities that best fit your child's age and abilities. You may also create your own activities.

THE PALMETTO BASICS ARE:

Maximize Love, Manage Stress

Talk, Sing, and Point

Read and Discuss Stories

Count, Group, and Compare

Explore Through Movement and Play