Play can be more than just entertainment for children, it can be a route through which we can achieve holistic development. This approach to learning is effective as it is developed around how humans explore and understand the world around them.
Learning through play as a Pedagogy:
Play based pedagogy, also known as learning through play, is an educational approach that utilizes play as a primary means of learning and development for kindergarten children. It is through play that children explore, discover, and make sense of the world around them. Here are some examples of how play can be used as a learning approach:
- Pretend Play & Storytelling: In early childhood education, children often use dramatic play/ role play to act out stories and situations they encounter in daily life. This can help develop language, social, and emotional skills. For example, children might pretend to work in the kitchen, or imitate characters from their favourite story
- Learning Math concepts through Play: Maths concepts can be learnt in an engaging manner through activities such as number sorting, pattern blocks, or counting games.
This approach transforms education into an active and engaging experience. It revolves around active participation over rote memorization and passive learning. By including play in teaching practices, educators create an environment where children are motivated to learn. This approach is child-centric and allows each child to learn according to their own pace.
Science behind Learning through Play: Research shows that play activates multiple areas of the brain encouraging neural development which enhances cognitive abilities such as problem – solving and critical thinking.
Play also secretes dopamine a neurotransmitter associated with motivation. It is also associated with better memory, creativity and mental flexibility. Integration of play with teaching practices aligns with research that children learn better when they enjoy the process of learning.
What are the skills children develop through Play:
Social-Emotional Learning: According to the Australian Council for Education Research, play is a crucial avenue to develop social & emotional skills. Through play, children are able to freely express their emotions, helping them to understand and manage their feelings. It also makes them aware of others’ feelings when they interact with their peers in play scenarios. Other ways that play promotes Socio-Emotional skills are via communication, cooperation, conflict resolution, and creativity.
Cognitive Skills: During play, children engage in problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making, which stimulate their brain’s development. Through imaginative play scenarios, children are challenged to manage situations, develop strategies and adapt to changing circumstances, which helps them to develop their cognitive abilities. For instance, playing ‘doctor’ or ‘teacher’ allows children to explore social roles, problem-solve and exercise their creativity as they explore various scenarios.
Physical Skills: Play promotesphysical well-being. Through play children engage in movement and exploration. This helps nurture their physical capabilities and sets the foundation for a lifetime of physical fitness. It helps development of fine motor skills, gross motor skills, hand-eye co-ordination in addition to balance and spatial awareness.
Additionally, children also develop their language and literacy skills in addition to confidence and self-esteem.
Role of Teacher in play-based learning: In learning through play, teachers create a safe and funenvironment where children can explore, solve problems, and be creative. They provide materials, guide activities and ask questions to facilitate learning. Teachers balance play with learning objectives and integrate subjects like literacy and Maths into activities. They ensure a balance between free play and guided lessons. Teachers also explain to parents and other stakeholders the importance of play and how it is important for their child’s holistic development.
At CHIREC, learning through play is a key pedagogy in our teaching-learning practices.
CHIREC pre-school places your child and their needs at the centre of our philosophy. Our qualified educators ensure your child’s learning journey is completely personalised. We develop learning experiences according to the way that your child learns – ensuring that he develops to his full potential. To know more visit: www.chirec.ac.in.
