[Amber]

Whereabouts do you live? In the U.S. it is agreed that children learn best through play and exploration and around 1 hour of uninterupted free playtime is strongly encouraged. There are definately things they "need" to do and the teachers usually implement a "small group" time...which I sometimes call "have tos" with the children I work with. Even in those small group times, many of the activities could be considered "play" but have a specific skill that the teacher is aiming to get the children to practice. Sounds to me that maybe this preschool is interpreting the "policy" differently than what it is meant to be like. Maybe look into other preschools? Ask around your area...meet with the director/teacher and find out the specifics of this policy. Good luck!