We all recognize the vital role play has in the classroom. Throughout history, the methods and practices used to educate students have continually evolved. What remains constant, however, is the understanding that learning is most effective when it is meaningful, engaging, and joyful. Early childhood educators have always known that play is not a break from learning, it is learning. As the school year winds down, the A-B-C Countdown brings a much-needed burst of excitement and energy to the final weeks of school. Each letter of the alphabet represents a special theme or activity that makes every day feel like a celebration. On the Thursday before the countdown begins, students have fun guessing what each letter might stand for. After lots of discussion and creative ideas, we reveal the actual themes.  An email is also sent home to families so they can help their children prepare for any special items or outfits they might need. Play and being playful is not just for students…it’s for teachers too!