What does “active learning” mean in early childhood?

Active learning in early childhood refers to hands-on experiences that allow children to engage directly with their environment. This approach emphasizes exploration, experimentation, and interaction, enabling children to construct their own understanding of the world around them. Through active learning, children can manipulate objects, ask questions, and discover concepts in a more meaningful way, which contributes to deeper cognitive development and retention of information.

This method supports various learning styles and encourages children to be curious and proactive learners. By fostering a rich, stimulating environment, educators can facilitate active involvement, making learning more relevant and enjoyable. Active learning also allows children to develop critical thinking skills, enhance their creativity, and improve their problem-solving abilities as they work collaboratively with peers and engage in practical activities.