Numerous articles have been published over the years showing the benefits of play…so why is it still questioned in early childhood education? Many adults struggle with the idea that children can learn through play and not just the conventional image of academics.

Vygotsky stressed the importance of pretend play giving an example of a child who pretends a broomstick is a horse. This child shows they understand how to separate the object from the symbol and abstract thought.

Piaget explained children are curious and naturally want to explore. Their intrinsic motivation to learn and interact with the world and those around them leads them to learn. This theory supports letting children play as it leads them to explore and question materials around them.

Click here to read a NY Times article titled “Let the Kids Learn Through Play.”