“For a small child, there is no division between playing and learning; between the things he or she does ‘just for fun’ and things that are ‘educational.’ The child learns while living, and any enjoyable part of living is also play.” ~ Penelope Leach (psychologist and author)
Play is a child’s context for learning.
Children practice and reinforce their learning in multiple areas during play. It gives them a place and a time for learning that cannot be achieved through completing a worksheet. For example, in playing restaurant, children write and draw menus, set prices, take orders, and make out checks. Play provides rich learning opportunities and leads to children’s success and self-esteem.
“Play is the only way the highest intelligence of humankind can unfold.” ~ Joseph Chilton Pearce (author)
Check out a great Ted Talk presented by Peter Gray! How can we, as adults help change back the mindset of the importance of play in childhood development?
Ted Talk on the decline of PLAY with Peter Gray
Preschool in the City with Mrs. Gabelman 