knight costume

Today, I’d like to introduce you to another of my favorite bloggers. Amanda Morgan is an early childhood educator and the author of Not Just Cute on which she writes about child development and early childhood education. While Amanda is not a Waldorf teacher, she recognizes many of the important elements of early childhood education that we Waldorf teachers do, specifically the importance of free, unstructured play for young children and the importance of their sensory experiences.

Amanda is a graduate of Utah State University who holds a BA in both elementary and early childhood education and an MS in childhood development.  She has a wealth of experience in classrooms ranging from preschool to sixth grade and has taught in private, public, and migrant schools.  In addition, she currently teaches preschoolers and works as a consultant and trainer for a non-profit children’s organization.

This week at Not Just Cute, Amanda has been writing about the importance of fantasy play for children. I urge you to take a few minutes and read her wonderful and valuable musings on this theme:

Enchanted Learning: The Benefits of Fantasy Play for Children

A Part of Their World: Adult Roles in Child’s Play

Magic Words for Guiding Behavior: “Let’s Pretend”

In connection with her series on fantasy play, Amanda approached me about partnering with her to offer a Giveaway on her blog. Naturally, I was delighted! We decided to offer one lucky reader their choice of either a Princess Dress ($72.95 value) or Knight’s Costume ($31.95 value) from Sarah’s Silks; and another lucky reader will win a pair of Play Silks ($23.90 value) from Sarah’s Silks! Children’s costumes and dress up invite the kind of imaginative fantasy play  that Amanda and I both feel is so important for children, and play silks are perhaps my very favorite Waldorf toys to encourage open-ended play and engage the imagination.

To enter, visit Imaginative Play Giveaway for details. While you’re there, be sure to read Amanda’s posts on Fantasy Play and have fun poking around. Then come back here, leave a comment, and let me know what you think!