Unpacking Strand A Through Play and Direct Instruction
Take a closer look at the 2026 Kindergarten curriculum in this PD webinar with a focus on foundational literacy and math skills
Tuesday, May 5, 2026
4-4:45 p.m.
This webinar will unpack key ideas from Strand A of the 2026 Kindergarten Curriculum. It will begin by defining key foundational literacy and math skills. Next, three types of play (student-led play, guided play and educator-led play) will be described. Examples of how to support foundational literacy and math skills through educator-led play will be modelled. Then, descriptions of systematic and explicit instruction will be shared, along with examples of what developmentally appropriate direct instruction can look like in a Kindergarten classroom. Lastly, examples of how to connect, or combine, direct instruction with educator-led play will be shared and contextualized within a realistic classroom schedule. This session will end with opportunities for Q&A to further unpack the key ideas presented.
About the Speakers:
Hanna Wickstrom
Hanna Wickstrom has a PhD from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education and an MA in Child Study and Education. Her research addresses how educators support children’s foundational math and literacy skills through educator-facilitated play and direct instruction. Hanna is an experienced classroom teacher and currently works as an Occasional Teacher for the Simcoe County District School Board. She holds an Adjunct Professor position with Lakehead University. Her research is funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.
About this series:
This professional development webinar is part of a series of materials developed by the Ontario Science Centre in support of the 2026 Kindergarten curriculum. Watch for more materials arriving before the new school year and sign up for Teacher eNews to be first to know when they are added.