This course will focus on the nature and the value of play as essential to children's language, social, cognitive, physical, and emotional development. Students will learn the principles of developmentally appropriate practice and be able to plan, organize and evaluate activities, develop curricular plans and set up effective indoor and outdoor learning environments. Appropriate use of instructional technology is integrated into instruction of content and pedagogy. Students will complete field experiences in early childhood classrooms as part of the course requirements.