The Benefits of Learning Through Play

The first 5 years of a child’s life are some of the most important for their long-term development and well-being. A learning through play approach is a great way to help your child grow, learn and explore their own interests as well as the world around them. Learning through play is not only fun for children but has many benefits for their learning ability and future emotional and physical development.

What is Learning Through Play?

Learning through play is essentially a hands-on method of learning through real-life experiences like playing with other children, one on one learning with educators, exploring their outdoor environment, and much more. Having one on one time with educators in reading, writing, and mathematics, as well as learning with other kids, helps children engage with and focus on what they are learning, and improves attention and problem-solving skills. Learning through outdoor exploration and play in a fun and safe environment improves physical wellbeing and development, sparks curiosity, and encourages an interest, understanding and respect for their environment.

Another important aspect of learning through play is the discovery and exploration of each child’s unique interests. Through this method, kids are given the opportunity to explore what they love and develop their own unique skills and talents. A fun, learning through play approach is also an important part of a childcare or kindergarten program because it helps young children settle into their new kindy environment without too much anxiety, as well as helping them transition out of kindy and into school.

Benefits of Learning Through Play:

• Children develop a strong self-identity and understanding of what they enjoy doing
• They develop a stronger sense of wellbeing and confidence
• They learn vital social skills and develop a stronger understand and respect for others
• They feel a sense of connection to themselves, their interests, and the world around them
• They develop communication skills
• They become more involved and enthusiastic learners through a fun and play-based program
• The learning through play method can adapt to suit each individual child’s learning needs and encourage their unique personalities, talents and potential
• Learning through play – especially in an outdoor setting – can also promote mindfulness and reduce stress and anxiety

Each of our centres follows the Early Years Learning Framework where children learn through hands-on experiences based on their interests. In this way, our programs can be adapted to each child’s varying developmental needs and allow the flexibility that recognises the uniqueness and potential of each child.

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The Importance of Play to a Child’s Physical, Mental, and Social Development

We understand how important your child’s physical, mental, and social development is to you, it is important to us as well. This is why your local Early Learning Centre encourages learning through play as it supports your child’s development in all of these key areas. – READ MORE