Everybody would agree that children love to play because it is an enjoyable activity. Educators need to know what play is, why it is important and how to implement play-based learning in their role in it.

Learning does not only take place in ways where pupils just sit and listen to the instructor. In reality, even while playing, they can learn something. In fact, it would be an achievement on the part of the teacher if her pupils learn and enjoy every moment of it at the same time.

While research on brain development is in its infancy, it is believed that play shapes the structural design of the brain. Secure attachments and stimulation are significant aspects of brain development; play provides active exploration that assists in building and strengthening brain pathways. Play creates a brain that has increased flexibility and improved potential for learning later in life.

Young children’s play allows them to explore, identify, negotiate, ask risks and create meaning. The intellectual and cognitive benefits of playing have been well documented. Children who engage in quality play experiences are more likely to have well-developed memory skills, language development, and are able to regulate their behavior, leading to enhanced school adjustment and academic learning.

In addition, physically active play allows children to test and develop all types of motor skills. It promotes significant health and well-being benefits. More so, one of the greatest benefits of playing is to assist with the development of social competence. Children can build relationships, learn to resolve conflicts, negotiate and regulate their behaviors. In play, children usually have increased feeling of success and optimism as they act as their own agents and make their own choices. Playing is a known stress release; it is often linked to children wellbeing.

By then, educators must consider to facilitate play-based learning. Even not daily, using this strategy at least once a week is good way to start.

 With due consideration to the learning environment, play-based learning is no doubt a tool to promote learning and maximize learning outcomes for real!

By: Mary Rose E. Abad | Teacher I | Happy Valley Elementary School | Dinalupihan, Bataan