How have I set up playful learning in my classroom?

A question I have been asked lots recently is how I have playful learning (play or play based however you call it) is run in my classroom. I have a range of ideas to have it set up which works for me, my students and my classroom. 
We call it playful learning - taking our own take on what we think it is. Find out more information below on all the things I have set up in my classroom to support this!

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This is a target display with information on our school PB4L target, key competencies target and playful learning target. These are what I am observing or talking about in class time. Each day I talk through these targets and remind students of key behaviour, talking or actions that could come under those targets. 

This playful learning observation template is what I record my observations on. These are for each individual student and I aim for 4-6 students a week. My observations are linked to the target behaviours, but also an explicit way to document the play that I can see. I then use this to support my learning stories and assessment of each child. 

download it here

Playful learning provocations is a list of some ideas for each four themed provocation ideas. These are grouped into four areas with ideas on what you can do to support this type of play in your classroom. 

grab this template here

Learning stories are a great way for parents to see and reflect on the learning that is happening in class. These are written from my observation templates are communicate goals or targeted skills. 

This template is free to download and use in your classroom. 

Make a copy of the template here

Storage for provocations can be quite tricky. I don't have a lot of space so try to reuse/keep things in a handy place. I have four cubby holes where I keep my provocations and play learning activities. These are quick to grab in their containers and things so that when I change my provocations I can just grab what I need. Organised chaos is the way to go. 
All my reusable provocation signs and things like play dough mats, writing prompts, and laminated activities are in the pink binder files. 
I also have a large container tub for my larger dramatic play provocations which is hidden out the back of my classroom. 

I make a conscious effort to plan for playful learning in my classroom. Here i document what I am working on with key competencies, te whariki principles and school values. I write down what provocations I am using and then who I am observing as well over the week. ​

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See a range of provocations and playful aspects from my classroom this year. 

Sources and materials:

• Local $2 shop for various baskets and containers
• Wooden play toys from Kmart NZ
• Wooden play stall from Kmart NZ
• Fake grass $2 shop
• Dramatic play background prompts: Little Lifelong Learners
• Number gnomes and play mats: Percival Arthur Browne
• Wood cuts, wooden pieces: Parts of Play
• Maths stones: Mitre 10
• Wood cushions from Kmart NZ
• Train set from Kmart NZ
• Beads from local $2 shop
• Weaving Frame: Light Tables
• Sensory Table: Urban Sales NZ
• Giant tweezers: Creative Classrooms
• Scissor scoopers: Creative classrooms
• Water beads: $2 shop
• Hammer, corkboard and shapes: Modern Teaching Aids
• Fishing rod set: Kmart nz
• Kinetic sand: Modern Teaching Aids