An education bill progressed through the Iowa House during the second funnel week.

Representative for District 23 Ray Sorensen says that House File 2652 pertains to minimum times for play-based learning in preschool and kindergarten. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio about some of the thought that went into the bill.

“The reasoning behind this is actually grounded in research. Young kids don’t learn best by sitting at desks doing worksheets all day. They learn through interaction, imagination and play. That’s how they develop social skills, problem solving ability and emotional intelligence. So I do think the intent behind the bill is good. It’s trying to protect that development stage and make sure that we’re not pushing academics too hard too early.”

Sorensen mentions that the bill would require a minimum of one and a half hours of play-based learning in preschools, and 45 minutes for kindergarten classes. He adds that while he does appreciate the goal, he’s cautious of putting mandates on classrooms and teachers.