Letter From Abbi
Dear Friends of The Playing Field,
Mister Rogers said, “Play is the work of childhood.”
If you have followed us for some time, you likely know that our name has two meanings. Of course, we want a level playing field where all children have access to high-quality early care and education. In addition, we are committed to supporting the rights of children to play.
Research shows us that children learn by experiencing. Young children need to touch and explore; their natural curiosity needs to be nurtured! Sadly, traditional models for education can actually impede a child’s interest in learning.
Many early childhood programs are modeled after elementary schools, resulting in children being asked to complete worksheets and sit quietly, listening more than they speak. These conditions impact the self-esteem of children as they are being asked to do things they are not developmentally ready for. Children are robbed of play opportunities that build the foundations for later learning.
Adults may not always recognize the value of what is happening as children play. Supporting children in play requires teachers to be knowledgeable about child development and attuned to the emerging interests of individual children in their care. Skilled early childhood teachers observe children at play and assess their abilities. These observations help them develop plans to challenge children without frustrating them.
As I travel and train in other ECE programs, I hear more about academic demands being pushed down onto younger and younger children. Teachers know this isn’t best for children. They find themselves caught between their knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice and the expectations of districts or organizations. It has become one of my passions to help teachers advocate for best practices in early education.
I am very thankful for our supporters and board of directors who understand the great worth of play! I am also grateful for our teachers, who continue to develop their professional skills to offer children opportunities to learn through play!
Gratefully,
Abbi
Playing with Purpose
At The Playing Field, play is both a joyful experience and a powerful foundation for growth and discovery. Our skilled educators carefully observe children at play, tuning into each child’s unique interests and developmental needs. By creating experiences that nurture curiosity and guide new milestones, our teachers turn each day into an opportunity for exploration and delight.
This fall, our classrooms have embraced the children’s excitement about pumpkins and autumn colors. At a recent Family Fun Night, children and their families joined in pumpkin-themed activities that fostered creativity, motor skills, and teamwork—all rooted in their love of fall.
Another interest that took flight among the children in one of our classrooms is their curiosity about transportation. Inspired by the planes and trucks spotted (and heard) from the playground, our teachers prepared materials, stories, and play activities about vehicles, helping children learn about the different types of transportation and the loud sounds they make. By exploring these vehicles through play, our children are becoming more familiar with them, easing initial uncertainties and making them feel more comfortable when they hear or see them from the playground. Through thoughtful planning, our teachers turned an everyday experience that often led to big feelings of uncertainty into an opportunity for learning and growth.
With their focus on each child’s interests, our teachers make play a joyful and meaningful tool for both development and connection, creating memories and milestones that we’re excited to share with you this season.
Teaching is a Work of Heart
Love is at the heart of everything we do.
Our teachers show their love by truly seeing each child, recognizing their unique interests, and creating experiences around them. This intentional form of care fosters creativity, confidence, and growth. Students and teachers express this love together through the joy of play in a nurturing environment where children feel valued and understood.
Our love for our early educators and staff is demonstrated through the creation of safe, supportive spaces and our commitment to compensation and development opportunities that honor the invaluable work they do.
We extend this love to our families as well, recognizing that quality care and education is a partnership that embraces the whole family. Through our commitment to nurturing relationships and fostering collaboration, we create a strong community that empowers all families with connections and resources to support their growth.
Community Spotlight
Celebrating Jay and Katie Sekelsky
We couldn’t do the work we do without support from our community! This October, we’re thrilled to celebrate our longtime supporters, Jay and Katie Sekelsky, who have been recognized with the 2024 United Way of Dane County Tocqueville Society Award for their outstanding philanthropic leadership and nearly four decades of dedication to Dane County. This award honors individuals who lead with generosity, vision, and impact.
Jay and Katie’s commitment has left an enduring mark on The Playing Field. As Co-Chairs of our Capital Campaign, they’ve helped us grow and thrive in countless ways, making an extraordinary difference in the lives of our children and families.
Read more about their well-deserved recognition here.
Join Us in our love for learning!
As Friends of The Playing Field, we invite you to connect with us in ways that resonate with you:
Acts of Service: Explore volunteer opportunities to share your talents and time.
Gift Giving: Make a donation to empower our mission and the children and families we serve.
Words of Affirmation: Tell us what The Playing Field means to you and how we’ve made an impact.
Together, let’s continue to build a nurturing community where every family can thrive!
P.S. Let us know how we can show you love—in appreciation of all your support!
