What Is Play-Based Learning and Why Is It Important?
When parents hear that a childcare centre uses play-based learning, they sometimes wonder how much children are actually learning.
For young children, play and learning often happen at the same time.
Through play, children can communicate, experiment, solve problems, develop physical skills and learn how to interact with others.
What Is Play-Based Learning?
Play-based learning uses children’s natural curiosity and interests as part of the learning process.
Activities may include:
- building
- drawing
- imaginative play
- puzzles
- outdoor exploration
- music
- water play
- group games
These experiences can support many areas of development at once.
What Do Children Learn Through Play?
Communication
Children talk, listen, ask questions and explain ideas.
Problem Solving
They experiment, test ideas and work out different ways to achieve something.
Social Skills
Playing with others helps children practise sharing, taking turns and resolving disagreements.
Creativity
Open-ended activities allow children to create their own ideas rather than following one fixed outcome.
Physical Development
Climbing, drawing, carrying, building and outdoor play all support different physical skills.
What Is the Educator’s Role?
Play-based learning does not mean educators simply stand back and watch.
Educators observe children, provide resources, ask questions and extend activities when opportunities arise.
They may introduce new ideas or materials based on what children are already interested in.
Play-Based Learning at Tuart Hill
Tuart Hill Baby & Child Care Centre states that children learn through play and should have opportunities to make choices about their learning and activities.
Parents can read more about the centre’s play-based learning philosophy and educators.
When visiting a childcare centre, ask what play-based learning looks like in practice rather than simply whether the centre uses the term.
If you are exploring early learning in Tuart Hill, you can also read more about why families choose the centre.