Play is not just for fun!

I came across an article based on recent research published in 2018 which was titled “Play is not frivolous” and it made me so happy to read!

I know from working with small children for many years that when children are playing they are giving something their full attention; they are curious and interested and isn’t that when we all learn best?

Too often, I think that play is seen as having a break from serious learning. You go out ‘to play’ after literacy or maths. A break from sitting still and learning. But it is in play when children are the most involved, engaged and creative. And so that is when children are able to learn best.

The article goes on to say “Children, in fact, need to play in order to learn. Play builds young brains. It enhances children’s brain structures and supports the development of executive functioning skills. These are the building blocks children need to master important skills later in life, such as problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity”

When children play, they are actively engaged in the learning process, not just passively listening. They are also practising negotiating and cooperation skills. It has also been shown in a group of 3-4 year-olds the benefits of playful activities in reducing anxiety levels about starting preschool.

I love to read about the importance of play as so often in Little Learners classes I watch children immersed in play. They make cakes using sand, rice and foam! They watch rice pour from the bottom of a funnel and they build towers with the bricks. The whole paper is painted green! There is a quiet hum of activity which I love. It’s not just a nice thing to do – there is serious learning going on! The children are learning important skills needed for their learning in the future.

You can read the full article here: https://bold.expert/play-is-not-frivolous/

And you can join one of my classes (all set up for serious play!) here: www.littlelearnersuk.com/franchise/stockport