House of Parker Preschool–Where Learning and Joy Go Hand in Hand

At House of Parker Preschool, we believe that play isn’t just something children do—it’s how they learn. Through play, children discover the world around them, express their creativity, build relationships, and develop the foundational skills they’ll carry with them for life.

Here’s why play is at the heart of everything we do—and why it’s one of the most powerful tools in your child’s development.

🌱 Play Grows the Whole Child

Play supports every area of a child’s development—cognitive, physical, emotional, and social. Whether your child is building with blocks, engaging in imaginative storytelling, or running through the snow in winter boots they zipped up themselves, they are learning important skills:

• Problem-solving through trial and error
• Language development through conversations and storytelling
• Social skills like sharing, empathy, and cooperation
• Confidence and independence through exploration and decision-making

🎨 Imagination Leads the Way

Children naturally make sense of their world through imagination. When they dress up as firefighters, build fairy houses, or create a pretend bakery, they’re practicing real-world roles and experimenting with ideas in a safe, joyful space.

At House of Parker Preschool, we protect and nurture that imagination, giving children time and freedom to explore, invent, and lead their own play.

👫 Play Builds Relationships

In a preschool environment, play becomes a social experience. Children learn to take turns, negotiate, and collaborate. Through guided group activities and child-led play, they begin to understand how to be part of a community.

One of our favorite daily moments is child-led group time, where children decide what songs we’ll sing, what instruments we’ll use, and how we’ll move our bodies together. These choices build leadership and a sense of belonging.

🧠 Play is the Work of the Child

As Maria Montessori said, “Play is the work of the child.” It’s how they process emotions, build resilience, and test their ideas. At House of Parker Preschool, we create a cozy, welcoming environment where children are encouraged to take risks, make mistakes, and find joy in the journey.

Whether it’s choosing how to express themselves through art or deciding what activity to try next, play empowers children to take ownership of their learning.

💛 Letting Childhood Be Childhood

In a world that often rushes childhood, we slow it down. We let children be little, explore with wonder, and grow at their own pace. Through play, they develop the skills they need—not just for school, but for life.

Because at House of Parker Preschool, we know that when children play, they aren’t just having fun. They’re thriving.

Want to see the power of play in action? Visit us at houseofparkerpreschool.com and learn more about our play-based programs in Gorham, Maine. We’d love to welcome your family into our community.