Why play is important in children at nursery school

8 benefits of play implemented at Little Steps, independently owned nursery schools in Douglasdale & Jukskei.

“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is the work of childhood.” Fred Rogers.

Play can often be associated with having fun and not with actual learning. Learning means acquiring a specific skill like counting or writing, however, play for children is learning and fundamental to their development and growth.

Little Steps Pre-schools have a solid holistic education structure focusing on play. We have eight essential benefits of play in childhood development.

The Benefits of Play

1. Stimulates early brain development

Play promotes brain development, including various life experiences that stimulate growth. An environment rich in play, sensory play and playing with objects is ideal for promoting brain growth and building this foundation.

2. Increases creative thinking

Play allows children to be creative and try new things. The different forms of play provide the opportunity to think and use their imagination, therefore, sparking creativity.

3. Improves communication, language & overall vocabulary

Playing among peers and pretend play improves overall communication, allowing children to practice vocabulary, talk, and learn among each other. You will often hear children reciprocate each other’s words and actions while playing in the classroom or with siblings at home.

4. Develops the ability to control emotions

Learning how to control emotions, wait their turn, share toys etc. is all-important before children start school.

Playing and specifically playing with peers provides an opportunity to learn how to control certain emotions. Those who can exhibit better social control will be able to be more socially competent.

5. Promotes social skills & empathy

Playing is crucial in enhancing social development. Learning how to interact with other children, siblings, parents etc., is a fantastic way to promote social skills. While playing with others allows children to learn social interaction like obeying rules, negotiating, and, most importantly, empathy.

6. Improves physical & mental health

We all know the importance of exercise and keeping our minds stimulated. Play is essential for children to stay physically strong and mentally active. Play that involves physical activities improves motor skills, coordination, strength, flexibility, and endurance. Introduced at nursery school level provides a great stepping stone for long-term health benefits.

7. Teaches lifelong lessons

Play provides the opportunity to adapt and understand the perspective of others, which provides the opportunity for more abstract thinking.

8. Creates stronger relationships

When children play with their friends, parents, or caretakers, they form a specific bond promoting a healthy relationship. These positive moments create long term effects that promote brain development.

Little Steps understands the importance of play

Our philosophy is child lead; we focus on holistic education and inquiry-based learning, laughter, and play. Our days are action-packed and carefully structured to ensure heaps of learning and never-ending fun. We are academically based with activities to promote a well-balanced child.

How play is incorporated into the daily curriculum

Our daily routine is carefully planned and ensures plenty of time for learning and play. Our programme allows for each child to work at their own pace. Play is included in most of our activities including:

· Free play on arrival in the morning

· Arts, crafts and puzzles

· Outside play with gross motor skills

· Messy play and exploration

· Perceptual activities

Little Steps is an independently owned nursery school in Douglasdale, with a second location in Jukskei Park. Our schools enrol from 14th months to 6 years and provide aftercare and holiday programmes for working parents. Are you looking for daycares in my area? Bring out the best in your children and join our family today.