In the spring of 2018, Sara, Amanda and Erin came together to develop a short workshop for their PBLWorks (formerly the Buck Institute for Education or BIE) colleagues at their bi-annual spring summit. In this session, National Faculty members shared some of the most common barriers they had heard from early childhood educators around the country during introductory workshops. The session, entitled “The K-2 Conundrum,” explored the misconceptions and assumptions many educators have about implementing PBL with our youngest learners. Together, participants explored a variety of possible ways to overcome these perceived barriers.

Two years later, that 90 minute workshop became a book.

Project Based Learning does work in early childhood classrooms. Most common understandings of PBL in Pre-K through 2nd grade are rife with assumptions, misconceptions, and perceived barriers that have prevented its widespread implementation. Implementing Project Based Learning in Early Childhood breaks down these barriers, offering teachers and leaders at various stages of PBL implementation the tools, resources, instructional strategies, and suggestions needed to dispel the myths and discover the truth.

Full of practical approaches and strategies, chapters encourage you to consider your current practices from new perspectives while “Reflect and Connect” sections provide opportunities to think through your questions, make connections to your current practices, and plan your next steps. Educators will gain a deep understanding of PBL in early childhood and build their confidence to engage all students in high quality Project Based Learning from the beginning of the school year to the end.