Project-based learning (PBL)

Project-based learning: explore, create, and learn together from early childhood.

When working with young children, one of the things that stands out the most is their great curiosity. Why not use it as a driving force for learning?

This is where project-based learning (PBL) shines. This methodology, based on children's interests and active learning, allows them to discover the world in a meaningful way, integrating what they learn with real-life experiences.

In this post, I will tell you what PBL is, how to implement it in early childhood education, and provide some practical examples to put it into action.

What is project-based learning?

PBL is a way of learning "by doing." Instead of working with worksheets or following a rigid framework, children participate in projects based on their interests.

For example, a group of children fascinated by dinosaurs? This topic becomes the central focus, and from it, we explore math (counting dinosaurs), language (creating stories about them), art (drawing or modeling them in clay), and much more.

This methodology not only teaches content but also develops essential skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and the ability to research.

But, how do we apply it in early childhood education?

1. Listen to their interests:

   Observe and talk to the children to discover what sparks their curiosity. If they show interest in plants, you could start a project about how they grow.

2. Formulate a question or challenge:

   A guiding question serves as a thread throughout the project. For example: "What does a plant need to grow?"

3. Explore and experiment:

   Plan a variety of activities: plant seeds, observe their growth, research in books, make drawings, or even invite a gardener to the class.

4. Document the process:

   Record what the children do and learn through photos, drawings, and their own words. This also serves to share the project with families.

5. Closure and celebration:

   End with an exhibition or activity where the children showcase what they have learned. This step reinforces their confidence and makes them feel proud of their work.

⭐Examples of projects to get started:

• "Building a city":
  Use boxes, cardboard, and paint to create a miniature city. The children learn about shapes, social roles, and collaboration.

• "Water explorers":
  Investigate water and its states. You can organize experiments with ice, create a mural of water droplets, or visit a nearby river.

• "A day on the farm":
  Recreate a farm in the classroom with toy animals. Talk about what they eat, where they live, and what they provide for us.

⭐Practical tips for educators and families:

• Don’t be afraid to improvise: Projects don’t always follow a linear path, and that’s okay. Flexibility is key.

• Encourage collaboration: Although each child has their own pace, working as a team reinforces social skills.

• Create a resource-rich environment: Books, recycled materials, toys... Everything can be useful for exploration and learning.

Are you ready to try project-based learning?

If you're ready to put this methodology into practice, I'd love to hear about your experiences! What project could you start? Share it with me on my social media: @Aprendimenta 😊