Play-Based Learning for Early Education in Finland with a school visit

Multisensory games and well-being.

Join our 7-day course in Helsinki, Finland, featuring a full-day school visit to experience one of the world’s top education systems in one of the happiest countries globally. Discover innovative early childhood methods with the Play to Learn More (PTLM) approach, gaining tools to teach through multisensory games, movement, yoga, and storytelling, creating joyful and engaging classrooms.

Discover how movement, play, and mindfulness activities can enhance learning and well-being in early childhood education. This course focuses on the Play to Learn More (PTLM) methodology, an innovative teaching approach developed by Kristín Einarsdóttir and Sarah Jane Anthony based on over 20 years of European research. Designed for educators working with children aged 2–7, this program uses storytelling, yoga, and sensory games to build cognitive, social, and emotional skills. Through practical sessions, participants experience games and calming activities that foster inclusion, confidence, and focus. Participants will enjoy a full-day school visit, meeting Finnish teachers and students to gain valuable firsthand insights. With Finland’s holistic educational approach, you’ll observe how outdoor activities, digital tools, and democratic engagement are integrated into learning, providing an inspiring model to bring back to your own educational environment.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:

• Develop play-based strategies to teach early concepts effectively.
• Apply multisensory learning techniques for diverse classroom needs.
• Integrate physical movement, yoga, and mindfulness into routines.
• Promote social-emotional development and well-being for children.
• Explore Finland's innovative teaching methods and their role in fostering a forward-thinking, holistic approach to education.
• Plan and adapt PTLM strategies for short- and long-term classroom goals.
• Build networks for collaboration and future Erasmus+ projects.
• Collaborate and share best practices with international peers to grow professional networks.
• Digital Development: Integrate digital tools for mindfulness, enhancing engagement and accessibility in line with Finland's leadership in educational technology. 
• Classroom-ready activities: Take away simple Smart Teachers Play More activities to implement directly in your classroom.

METHODOLOGY AND ASSESSMENT:

• Interactive workshops: Hands-on experiences in movement games, storytelling, and mindfulness activities.
• Reflection sessions: Adapt and personalise techniques for diverse classroom needs.
• Embrace eco-choice practices: Upcycle materials and use natural resources to help students value sustainability and engage more fully in learning.
• Finnish school visits: Observe inclusive practices and personalised learning models.
• Collaborative sharing: Exchange successful practices with peers to enhance learning.
• Digital collaboration and assessment tools: Promote teamwork and digital literacy through the use of digital tools for resource sharing, group reflections and evaluations.
• Vision planning: Develop clear implementation goals with peer and trainer feedback.
• Cultural activities: Engage in Finland's traditions and networking opportunities.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR PROFESSIONALS ACROSS THE EDUCATION SECTOR:

This course offers learning opportunities for teachers and school staff across the education sector including: Preschool; Primary; Secondary; Adult education; Special Needs; Teaching assistants; School management; Vocational education; Higher education; and Student teachers.

AS PART OF THE COURSE WE ALSO PROVIDE:

• Morning refreshments
• Cultural evening
• Visit to Helsinki City Museum
• Course material
• Certificate of attendance

COURSE DATES:

04.05.2025 > 10.05.2025 CONFIRMED

26.10.2025 >  01.11.2025 CONFIRMED