Which practice would be most effective for a preschool sped teacher integrating affective and social skills instruction using developmentally appropriate principles?

Designing learning experiences around various types of children's play is the most effective practice for integrating affective and social skills instruction in a preschool setting. Play is a natural and developmentally appropriate way for young children to learn and practice social interaction, emotional regulation, and communication skills. When children engage in various types of play, such as cooperative play, role-playing, or imaginative play, they naturally encounter opportunities to express feelings, negotiate, share, and collaborate with peers.

This approach is grounded in the understanding that preschool-aged children learn best through hands-on, experiential learning, where they can explore and experiment in a safe environment. By creating learning experiences that capitalize on play, educators can foster an environment that encourages children to develop their affective and social skills in a way that aligns with their natural instincts and developmental stages.

Structured daily routines, while beneficial for providing consistency and predictability, do not inherently focus on the rich social interactions and emotional experiences that emerge through play. Implementing strict classroom rules can be necessary for classroom management but may not effectively teach children to navigate social situations and develop their emotional skills in a dynamic and engaging way. Focusing solely on academic instruction neglects the critical social and emotional development that is essential for preschool children, which can hinder overall growth