Why is Play Important in Early Childhood Education?

What was your favorite part of the school day? Did you say recess or lunch? If you did then you’re in the majority! Many kids love recess and wish it could go on all day! There are some school districts that have shortened recess time and it is very detrimental to the kids’ health! Let me explain why.

Play is such a fundamental part of every child’s life, but often when a teacher wants to ‘punish’ a child … recess is the first thing taken away from them. When that is exactly what they need most! Also with all the homework that kids are supposed to do these days there is just less time for a child to go and play! Most schools have reduced their recess time by almost an hour a week.

Now when the kids are at home, we find them in front of the tv a lot of the time and in front of their tablets the other times. Ok I’m guilty of this as well so don’t come at me, but I have been trying to change that. Change starts with us and our kids will see what we’re doing and try to follow. I would be outside every day when I was a kid and you could always find me up in a tree. It’s so hard when you live in an apartment or a townhome with no yard, but find some green in your area! Even if it’s a small park around the corner.

Benefits

Playing offers numerous benefits that are crucial to a child’s development. Jean Piaget a world renowned psychologist who developed the study of children’s intellectual development had this to say about it “Play is the work of children”. Maria Montessori also said “Play is the work of the child” which is basically the same thing. But play is so important that these two people in the forefront of children’s education decided to say something about children playing. That should tell you something.

Cognitive Development

Play helps children develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity. Through play, they explore concepts like cause and effect, counting, and spatial relationships, which are foundational for later academic learning.

Social Skills

Play provides opportunities for children to interact with their peers, learn to share, negotiate, and cooperate. These interactions are vital for developing social skills and emotional intelligence. Playing with other children or adults can help them learn the important attribute of empathy. The adult can even model empathy which is a crucial skill to learn.

Physical Development

Active play, like running, jumping, and climbing supports the development of fine and gross motor skills. This physical activity is also important for overall health and well-being. This can also combat childhood obesity which is on the rise and other related health issues.

Academic Benefits

Play-based learning makes academic concepts more engaging and accessible. Learning through play can help the child’s focus and attention especially activities like puzzles or building projects. Games that involve remembering rules, or sequences can help improve a child’s memory and recall abilities. Through play, children practice planning, organizing, and managing time.

Emotional Expression

Through imaginative play, children can express their emotions, process experiences, and manage stress. This helps them develop resilience and emotional regulation. Play provides a safe space for children to explore and express their emotions without fear of judgment – such as happiness, sadness, anger, or fear – allowing them to understand and process these feelings. This also promotes empathy as they consider the emotions and perspectives of others as they play.

Coping Mechanisms

Play allows children to rehearse coping strategies for real-life situations. For instance, a child might use play to work through fears, such as playing “doctor” to overcome anxiety about a medical visit. This type of play helps them develop healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety.

Self-Confidence

Play allows children to try new things, take risks, and solve problems in a low-pressure environment. Successes in play build self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment. Successfully navigating emotional challenges in play can boost a child’s self-esteem. When children see that they can handle difficult emotions and situations in their play, they gain confidence in their ability to manage similar challenges in real life.

Conclusion

Play is a vital aspect of early childhood education, promoting cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. By embracing play, educators can create a nurturing and effective learning environment that supports the holistic growth of young children. Integrating play into early education not only enriches a child’s academic journey, but also supports their overall well-being and personal growth. Fred Rogers collaborated with a child psychologist to create his tv show “Mister Rogers”. He said “Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning.”

Have a blessed day.