Learning Centers

What is Play Based Learning?

Young children learn the most important things not by
being told but by constructing knowledge for themselves
in interaction with the physical world and with other
children – and the way they do this is by playing

Jones, E., & Reynolds, G. (1992). The play’s the
thing: Teachers’ roles in children’s play, p. 1

Play-based learning functions on the idea that play and learning stimulate one another in the growth of children’s knowledge bases. These forms of learning come in two forms: intimidate and measurable, and developmental growth. Examples of this can be seen in the comparison of task specific learning tasks ( i.e curricular based math centers) and the usage of outdoor play time ( helps in overall development of motor skills.)

However never forget that not all play is learning. In Canada an approach to play-based learning. ” Learning through play” is the idea that through using the inherent funds of knowledge already possessed by earlier learners is easier by creating an environmental stimulus that they understand best (PLAY!). A teacher is better able to meet the individual needs of a student by playing off their interests.

The role of the teacher in these play-based learning environments is often more of a translator and guide rather than a direct hands on approach. This is of course not to say that the teacher is not creating goals. Rather the tasks set forth by the teacher are expressed during instructional group time or at the center itself.

It is important to remember that as teachers it is our job to defend the academic practices surrounding play in the classroom. Many parents or administrators will not understand the importance of Play-based learning and it’s our job to help these individuals understand.*

Learning Centers