Building skills beyond the surface
A Grade 00 classroom is proving that creativity and choice are key to early childhood development.
A Grade 00 classroom at Crawford Bryanston is demonstrating how creative play can play a vital role in early childhood development.
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On March 17, learners engaged in a clay activity designed to support both physical and emotional growth. According to teacher Nikita Govan, the exercise goes far beyond simple play. “Clay is a powerful learning material. It supports fine motor development and helps children build dexterity, while also encouraging emotional regulation.”
She added that the activity also provided a valuable non-verbal outlet, allowing children to express themselves freely through creation. Central to the classroom’s learning philosophy is the concept of learner agency. Learners are given the freedom to make decisions about their work, encouraging independence and confidence.
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“We prioritise voice and choice in our classroom. Children decide what they want to create and how they want to express their ideas. This learner-led approach supports creativity while reinforcing essential developmental skills at an early stage.”
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