Welcome back! Do people still blog these days? It’s been a while since we ‘took up some space’ in this place of ours. Last time we met here we were busy telling you all about Puddle Patter, our digital sister and series of ‘In conversation’ interviews with Cameron Sprague and various thought leaders in early years. You can catch up on the episodes here: https://stramash.org.uk/puddle-patter-videos/ and also listen on our Spotify podcast as we are adding them there! https://open.spotify.com/show/7kX6uFP8PE8PIBZdDMIOGd

So what bought us back to the Blog?

Well with the fast moving nature of social media we realised we were sharing lots of useful info that was better suited to a slightly longer form format (than an 8 second video and caption that’s hard to read). We believe that some good things take time. So grab a brew and enjoy this quick read on why play based learning is so optimum for children!

Who says play based learning is best…We do! And the research agrees

In today’s fast-paced world, the importance of play-based learning is gaining recognition as educators and parents alike acknowledge its profound impact on children’s development. Let’s delve into some compelling research studies that shed light on the benefits of child-led learning and play.

1. The Importance of Play in Early Childhood Development:
   • Research conducted by Dr. Sergio Pellis, a behavioral neuroscientist, and colleagues highlights the crucial role of play in the development of the prefrontal cortex, the brain region associated with decision-making, social interactions, and cognitive flexibility. Through play, children learn to navigate social dynamics, regulate their emotions, and solve problems, laying the foundation for future success (Pellis & Pellis, 2007).
2. Promoting Language and Literacy Skills:
   • A study by Dr. Dorothy G. Singer and Dr. Roberta Michnick Golinkoff emphasizes the link between play and language development. Their research suggests that pretend play, such as role-playing and storytelling, provides children with opportunities to expand their vocabulary, enhance narrative skills, and develop a deeper understanding of language structure (Singer & Golinkoff, 2006).
3. Enhancing Mathematical Proficiency:
   • Dr. Douglas H. Clements and Dr. Julie Sarama conducted a meta-analysis of studies examining the effectiveness of play-based approaches to teaching mathematics. Their findings indicate that playful mathematical activities, such as building with blocks and engaging in spatial reasoning games, foster mathematical proficiency and conceptual understanding among young children (Clements & Sarama, 2009).
4. Supporting Social-Emotional Development:
   • Research by Dr. Deborah Leong and Dr. Elena Bodrova underscores the importance of socio-dramatic play in promoting social-emotional skills. Their studies demonstrate that engaging in pretend play encourages children to take on different roles, collaborate with peers, and develop empathy and perspective-taking abilities, essential for healthy social relationships (Leong & Bodrova, 2012).
5. Cultivating Creativity and Problem-Solving Skills:
   • Dr. Alison Gopnik, a developmental psychologist, highlights the role of play in fostering creativity and innovation. Through open-ended play experiences, children learn to think flexibly, generate novel ideas, and approach problems from multiple perspectives, essential skills for navigating an ever-changing world (Gopnik et al., 2001).

In conclusion, research unequivocally supports the myriad benefits of child-led learning and play. From promoting cognitive development to nurturing social-emotional skills and fostering creativity, play-based approaches offer a holistic framework for supporting children’s growth and development. As we embrace the power of play, let us create environments that prioritise exploration, imagination, and joyful learning experiences for all children.

References:

• Clements, D. H., & Sarama, J. (2009). The promise of early childhood mathematics education. Erlbaum.
• Gopnik, A., Meltzoff, A. N., & Kuhl, P. K. (2001). The scientist in the crib: Minds, brains, and how children learn. William Morrow Paperbacks.
• Leong, D. J., & Bodrova, E. (2012). Tools of the mind: The Vygotskian approach to early childhood education. Pearson.
• Pellis, S. M., & Pellis, V. C. (2007). Rough-and-tumble play and the development of the social brain. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 16(2), 95–98.
• Singer, D. G., & Golinkoff, R. M. (2006). Play= Learning: How play motivates and enhances children’s cognitive and social-emotional growth. Oxford University Press.