Brittany Rudowsky Case Study

Brittany Rudowsky, a dedicated kindergarten teacher at Fort Island Primary School in Ohio, is a staunch advocate for play-based learning within the realm of early childhood education. In addition to her roles as the science coordinator and go-to curriculum person, Brittany pursues graduate courses in early childhood education and tells us how important play is for young learners. She illuminates, “Younger students need time to play so that they can build their communication, problem solving, and their emotional regulation skills. And when they have that foundation, then the learning, well the learnings already happening when they’re playing, but when you have that foundation of what play offers a child, then you can only go up from there.”

Playful Learning in Rudowsky’s Classroom

Brittany’s innovative approach to education is underscored by her utilization of nature-based and hands-on activities that resonate with her young learners. For instance, she seamlessly incorporates the wonders of the natural world into her teaching through Playful Learning units like “Animals in Winter.” In one lesson, “Polar Plunge”, students are encouraged to explore tactile sensations by dipping their hands into different materials, such as feathers and Crisco, to understand how animals adapt to colder climates. This experiential learning fosters a deeper understanding of scientific concepts while keeping the element of play alive.

Furthermore, Brittany orchestrates activities like the “Apple Unit” and “Insects Study,” where students are actively engaged in collecting outdoor items and using them as stimuli for learning. Her integration of tangible elements, like an old-school projector, facilitates hands-on construction and drawing activities, enabling students to creatively express their understanding. By posing open-ended questions and encouraging observations, Brittany fosters critical thinking and written expression. The incorporation of art, labels, and watercolors not only stimulates the imagination but also reinforces key concepts.

Leveraging 4th Grade Buddies

One of Brittany’s strategic initiatives involves pairing her kindergarten students with fourth-grade buddies. This cross-grade collaboration not only fosters meaningful relationships but also provides an avenue for knowledge exchange. The older students act as mentors, assisting their younger counterparts in bridging any knowledge gaps. This symbiotic relationship extends beyond the classroom, benefiting not only the kindergarten students but also enhancing the leadership skills and empathy of the fourth graders.

Moreover, Brittany recognizes the potential for intergenerational learning beyond the school setting. Homeschooled students and parents are also encouraged to participate in this collaborative approach, offering a broader spectrum of perspectives and experiences. By encouraging interaction between different age groups, Brittany creates a supportive community where learning transcends traditional boundaries.

Impact of Playful Learning Curriculum

Brittany Rudowsky’s innovative application of nature-based and hands-on activities, coupled with her strategic use of cross-grade collaborations, exemplifies the profound impact of using Playful Learning materials. Her holistic approach not only fosters a love for learning but also equips students with essential life skills that extend beyond the classroom.