Families' Experiences of a Universal Play-based Early Childhood Program in Nova Scotia: Implications for Policy and Practice. Issue 4 (2nd October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Carolan, Patrick L.; McIsaac, Jessie-Lee D.; Richard, Brenna; Turner, Joan; McLean, Christine
• Is Part Of: Journal of research in childhood education. Volume 35:Issue 4(2021)
• Page Start: 550
• Page End: 566
• Publication Date: 2021-10-02
• Subjects: Parents -- play -- policy -- preschool education -- public schools -- qualitative evaluation; Education -- Research -- Periodicals; Education -- Evaluation -- Periodicals; Child Development -- Periodicals; Education -- Periodicals; Learning -- Periodicals; Research Design -- Periodicals; Child; Infant; 370.72
• DOI: 10.1080/02568543.2020.1773588
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0256-8543

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This study examined families' experiences of a publicly funded, play-based early learning program for children in the year before school entry. An online survey was conducted with parents and/or guardians (n = 291) to learn about their child's outcomes in the program, their perception of play-based learning, attitudes toward the program, and how the program supported their family. Socio-demographic information was also collected (income, education). A concurrent triangulation mixed methods design was used in the analysis of quantitative and qualitative survey questions through descriptive and inferential statistics, followed by content analysis of open-ended responses. The majority of parents felt their child was supported by the program and would transition more easily to the first year of school as a result of participating. The results also indicate the importance of connection to school community and good communication with a child's educators as predictors for positive attitudes toward play-based learning. Overall, the study reinforces the importance of publicly funded quality early childhood education and ensuring that parents value the play-based philosophy of these programs.