Supporting Numeracy and Literacy Learning through Play in School-Based Environments (2021-2025)

This project consists of two phases. In the first, our purpose was to explore how a meaningful and functional numeracy and literacy-rich play-based environment helps to build positive attitudes and competencies for children in publicly funded early learning programs. This looked like a series of six online workshops where Pre-primary Program early childhood educators were asked to photograph how they saw numeracy and literacy occurring through play. In the second phase, we expanded this idea to include early elementary teachers (grades primary-2) to participate in online communities of practice alongside Pre-primary Program early childhood educators. Participants shared many wonderful insights about how they support numeracy and literacy through play in their learning environments.

This project was led by Dr. Jessie-Lee McIsaac, Tier II Canada Research Chair in Early Childhood: Diversity and Transitions at the Early Childhood Collaborative Research Centre, Mount Saint Vincent University and Dr. Christine McLean, Mount Saint Vincent University.

This project was funded by the Margaret and Wallace McCain Family Foundation and supported by the Nova Scotia Department of Education and Early Childhood Development.

Reports

Phase 1: Graphic Report [EN] [FR]

Check out the graphic report to view participants photos and more information on the project background and methods used.

Phase 2: Graphic Report [EN] [FR]

Check out the graphic report to view participants photos and more information on the project background and methods used.

Phase 1: Panel Exhibit Companion

Our traveling panel exhibit was designed to give more details to some of the photos from the graphic report. The panels showcase educator voice and provide some interpretation from the researcher.

Infographics

One-Pager: Numeracy and Literacy – It’s Everywhere!

The one-pager is designed for families and provides point form examples of numeracy and literacy in play-based early learning environments. It also has some tips and tricks for promoting numeracy and literacy at home.

Presentations

Expanding Numeracy and Literacy Learning through Play in School-Based Environments.

This presentation provides an overview of the initial results of phase two of our numeracy and literacy project

Equity and the concept of school readiness (2024-2026)

In this project, which is funded by MITACS and Margaret and Wallace McCain Family Foundation Inc. we wanted to explore educator and community expert perspectives regarding the expectations of child development and school transitions as they relate to children in Nova Scotia primary classrooms. Specifically, this research will address the following questions:

  1. How do community priorities for children influence expectations?
  2. How do systems support children and families across school transitions?

We have completed the focus group interviews with both community experts and teachers.

Reports

Equity and the concept of school readiness: Community Report

This report provides the results of research that aims to build on a critical examination of the concept of child development by exploring community expert perspectives on equity-deserving groups in Nova Scotia transitions into school.