Lecture will focus on learning through play

Turtle Creek Learning Academy invites parents of toddlers ages 2-5 to attend "Don't Hurry Childhood: Children Learn Best Through Play" from 10 a.m. to noon Nov. 14 at the school, located at 10 Railroad Ave., Marlboro. The free community event will feature Edward Miller, a founding partner and co-director of the U.S. Alliance for Childhood, who will help parents understand how children learn best through creative play. The event kicks off American Education Week, celebrated Nov. 15-21.

Miller co-authored a report published in March of this year titled "Crisis in the Kindergarten: Why Children Need to Play in School." The report, based on the results of numerous research studies, finds that "children who engage in socio-dramatic play develop higher levels of thinking, stronger language skills, better social skills, more empathy, and more imagination than children who do not play in this way."

"Don't Hurry Childhood" is offered free to interested parents. The event will also include a question-and-answer session with Miller and the director of Turtle Creek Learning Academy, Virginia McDonald. There will also be refreshments, event materials, and babysitting services. Register by Nov. 2 by calling 732-780-9656 or e-mailing mbeutel@turtlecreekacademy.com.