Ever wonder if you are doing the best to help your child in his or her learning? You definitely are not alone. Many parents wonder how best to facilitate their children’s development. This is where play-based learning comes in. Play-based learning is not keeping children busy but is a very influential method of education that equips a child with important life skills. Let’s see why this method is so vital and what incredible benefits it brings to a young learner’s growth.
What is Play-Based Learning?
Play-based learning is the educational methodology where play is the core tool for learning. It provides children with a space to experiment and see the world around them in a self-natural and engaging way.
Insights from Dr. Swati Vats
According to Dr. Swati Vats, the co-founder of Podar Prep, play has the deepest impact on the growth of a child during the early years. She says that play is not purely a time-wasting game, but an integral part of the learning process. She goes on to say that it is in playing that children learn to negotiate in social dynamics, feel emotions, and begin to develop their critical thinking skills. Dr. Vats implores parents to embrace play-based learning both at home and in educational settings to support holistic development.
According to her, play-based learning develops both the left and the right sides of the brain. The left side is responsible for tasks related to logic and language, while creative and spatial activities bring the right side into action. This balance in the development of the brain is much needed in early years, and play-based learning is just the natural way for this.
Ideas for Play-Based Learning Activities
- Role-Playing Games: Set-ups, like supermarkets and doctor’s offices, help children learn different roles in society and develop empathy.
- Block Sets: Setting up blocks or LEGO builds structures, enhancing spatial awareness, fine motor development, and creativity.
- Outdoor Play: Activities like treasure hunting, gardening, or sand and water play foster exploration and physical growth.
- Art and Craft: Provide materials they can use to draw, paint, and do crafts. Art activities develop creativity, fine motor skills, and emotional expression.
- Music and Movement: Sing action songs and dance to the song. Be introduced to playing simple musical instruments.
Practical Tips for Implementing Play-Based Learning
Make the Environment Play-Friendly: Ensure that your child’s play area is safe, engaging, and well-stocked with a wide array of toys and materials that can lead to varied play behaviours.
Join in the Fun: Engage yourself with the play activities of your child. This not only strengthens your bond but also opens up avenues for guided play where you could possibly introduce new concepts and ideas.
Let Them Explore: Be open to exploring and playing without too many inhibitions, which enhances creativity and creates an independent thinker.
Mix of Structured and Free Play: While some structure is needed, there should also be plenty of free playtime when children are free to choose.
Integrate Play with Learning Goals: Make play useful in reinforcing what your child is currently learning in preschool. For example, if they are currently learning about animals, allow animal toys and role-play scenarios that involve animals.
Conclusion
Play-based learning is one of the strong pillars of early childhood education. It has many advantages that traditional pedagogies may not be able to offer. In Podar Prep, we incorporate play-based learning into our curriculum to ensure that children are learning through engaging and meaningful activities.
Ready to see your child thrive through play-based learning? Join Podar Prep today and give your child the best start to their educational journey!
