Eighty-seven early childhood educators and administrators from a Midwestern state participated in this study. The current study used a newly developed questionnaire to determine educators' attitudes and use of play in early childhood classrooms. The questionnaire was completed in a self-report, online format. Questions asked about information regarding effective learning activities, length of free play, interaction with students during play time, and knowledge of play skill development. Results indicated that play is commonly used as a child-directed learning environment in early childhood education classrooms and educators are aware of play skill development and its ability to be an effective teaching tool. |