Kindergarten career orientations should be characterized by a playful approach, according to Antonov's suggestion.
In a groundbreaking initiative, kindergartens across the Sverdlovsk region are embracing playful career guidance, transforming traditional playgrounds into dynamic learning spaces that introduce young children to various professions. This innovative approach, championed by Dmitry Antonov, Director of the Department of Labor and Employment of the Population of the Sverdlovsk region, is designed to foster curiosity and help children understand the beauty of different careers.
The new platform, a far cry from a simple sandbox, is more interactive and profession-focused, incorporating objects related to professions such as a fire truck and an ambulance. According to Dmitry Antonov, this playful format serves as a "light touch of the future," subtly introducing children to the world of work.
In an interview conducted by OTV-Ekaterinburg on July 23, 2025, Dmitry Antonov expressed his belief that the Urals, with their strong metal and stone industries, could greatly benefit from this approach. He emphasised that the focus should be on nurturing future professionals in in-demand industries like healthcare and construction.
One example of this innovative approach can be seen in a municipality that has implemented an outdoor children's game-based career guidance platform, complete with a miniature construction site. Through these interactive play spaces, children gradually come to understand that these industries are not only normal but also cool and beautiful.
The success of this approach can be measured by observing children's increased interest and engagement in various activities. Children exhibit a higher level of curiosity and enthusiasm about different professions and roles, demonstrating enhanced development of essential life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.
This new approach to career guidance in kindergartens is not limited to the Sverdlovsk region. In regions with a strong focus on education and innovation, such as Perm National Research Polytechnic, integrating career guidance into kindergarten settings through playgrounds could be particularly effective.
To ensure the continued success of this initiative, it is recommended that local educational bodies collaborate to develop and implement play-based career guidance programs. Engaging with local communities and professionals is crucial to ensure that the career guidance activities are relevant and engaging. Regular evaluation of the impact and effectiveness of these programs is also essential to make necessary improvements.
Some kindergartens in the Sverdlovsk region are already implementing a playful career guidance approach, paving the way for a future where every child in the region has the opportunity to explore their passions and discover their potential from an early age.
News about the Sverdlovsk region's innovative approach to kindergarten education and self-development has been spreading, as playgrounds transform into platforms for career guidance. The new, profession-focused playgrounds, complete with objects representing various industries like healthcare and construction, are designed to spark children's curiosity about different careers and foster essential life skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and communication.
