The Dramatic Difference

Young children learn best through two kinds of experiences: dramatic play and interaction with their peers—learning through action precedes learning through language or thought. In The Dramatic Difference, Victoria Brown and Sarah Pleydell introduce drama as a bridge between children's natural propensity for active learning and the demands of the preschool and kindergarten curriculum.

The Dramatic Difference is a comprehensive guide to using drama as a teaching tool—from spontaneous work initiated by a child's curiosity to drama work that is planned and guided by the teacher with specific educational objectives in mind. The authors offer:

• strategies for leading curricular-based process drama work
• detailed descriptions of age-appropriate drama sessions
• a step-by-step guide to facilitating new drama work
• suggestions for integrating props and other multisensory experiences
• recommendations for adapting dramatic activity to accommodate children with special needs.

Dramatic play offers the perfect medium for young children to solve problems, express emotions, develop critical-thinking skills, engage in socialization, and develop a sense of self. The Dramatic Difference will help preschool and kindergarten teachers, drama specialists, and day care providers create an environment where the potential for learning through drama is as limitless as a child's imagination.