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  • Play is the primary way young children learn about the world. It lays the groundwork for future learning, as new knowledge builds upon earlier experiences in a process known as scaffolding.

  • Through play, children naturally develop qualities such as creativity, imagination, curiosity, trust, and spontaneity. Because play nurtures an intrinsic love of learning, it supports ongoing, self-motivated development.

  • Research shows that in children’s early years, play is also the best way for them to learn and grow.

What does research say about Play & Early Learning

Research consistently shows that play is a fundamental driver of early learning and development. Far from being separate from education, play is how young children build the cognitive, social, and emotional foundations for lifelong learning (Goldstein, 2012).

Studies demonstrate that play supports brain development by strengthening neural connections and enhancing skills such as problem-solving, memory, and attention. Through play, children develop the ability to think flexibly, adapt to new situations, and learn how to learn (Goldstein, 2012).

Play-based learning also plays a critical role in language and literacy development. Activities such as storytelling, pretend play, and construction play support vocabulary growth, symbolic thinking, and early mathematical understanding (Goldstein, 2012). These early experiences form the basis for later academic learning.

Importantly, research shows that play improves academic outcomes. Children engaged in play-based learning demonstrate higher levels of motivation, engagement, and achievement in areas such as reading and mathematics (Sakib, 2022). This is because play-based environments encourage active participation, exploration, and curiosity, which are essential for effective learning.

Beyond academics, play helps children develop essential life skills. It builds confidence, encourages creativity, and supports social and emotional development, including cooperation, empathy, and self-regulation (Goldstein, 2012; Sakib, 2022).

In essence, play is not a break from learning—it is the foundation of it. High-quality early childhood education recognises this by placing play at the center of the learning experience (Sakib, 2022).

References

Goldstein, J. (2012). Play in children’s development, health and well-being. Toy Industries of Europe.

Sakib, N. (2022). The effect of play-based learning on the cognitive development of kindergarten students. Cultural Communication Journal, 10(1), 40–58.