The Benefits of Learning Through Play


When children play, they learn and understand concepts and emotions. Play is a learning platform that comes naturally to kids.


Sometimes it might not look like much is happening, but playing develops their brains and allows children to use all their senses - hearing, seeing, tasting, touching, smelling.  Playing also allows children to move, which stimulates their motor skills. 
 
Research shows that learning through play is an important part of a child’s development. Though ensuring your child has enough play time is a great benefit to families to allow their children to release some extra energy, a child begins to find out who they are through play, even during infancy.
Even early in development, a child’s mind is expanding just by looking at their environment and taking in their surroundings.
Through play and with the use of educational toys, children learn many different skills they will need in their life such as:
 
  • Problem solving and learning cause and effect
  • Learning how to play with others through compromise, conflict resolution and sharing
  • Development of fine and gross motor skills
  • Nurturing their creativity and imagination
  • Discovering their independence and positive self-esteem

Learning through play doesn’t stop in the house or in the classroom. The importance of outdoor play for young children cannot be overstated. That’s why families need to bring learning to the great outdoors! This can be achieved by going on walks and gathering nature objects such as sticks, leaves, etc. to use in art projects later. Families can simply just enjoy the outdoors with some fun water play or bringing a blanket and some toys outside to enjoy.
The first years of life shape a child’s future into adulthood. This is when the most significant brain development happens, particularly in the first two years of life. Lack of play and communication, known as "under-stimulation", can have long-term negative consequences on a child’s learning and physical and mental health.
Play has never been more important, especially in today’s fast paced techno centric world. Playing allows children to learn and develop skills to become well rounded, functional adults and members of society who benefit the communities in which they live.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is provided by the SPAR Group Ltd for general information purposes only. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.