Play-Based Learning

What is play-based learning?

Play-based learning is used in early childhood education and is based on child-led and open-ended play. As educators, we understand children are naturally wired to learn and grow and know children use play to understand the world around them. Through play in a teacher lead kinder program, children are provided with voluntary, enjoyable activities which believe it or not helps children develop social skills, language and numeracy skills and more. It also helps lay the foundation for a child to become a curious and excited learner later in life!

Evidence shows, play-based learning helps children develop social skills including how to problem solve, self-regulation and how to communicate effectively with others. It also helps develop skills such as persistence, curiosity and imagination – skills which are very much in demand.

Both our 3 and 4 year old programs allow for fun and interesting activities and includes opportunities for:

• Adult-led learning where the educator plans or introduces a play experience, idea or topic to purposefully direct the child’s learning.

• Child-directed play and learning where the child leads their own learning through exploration, imagination and experimentation.

• Guided play and learning where educators involve themselves in children’s spontaneous play and extend their learning as opportunities arise.

Read more in the article below, published by the Victoria Department of Education and Training, or by watching the ACECQA video "How does play inspire children’s love of learning?"