Fullan et al., Play to Thrive (2021)
Play-based learning matters because it supports the whole child. Through play, children develop important skills like problem-solving, communication, self-regulation, and social understanding. Research shows that play also supports brain development and helps build the foundation for future learning, including literacy and numeracy.
Even though many educators recognize that play is important, it is not always used consistently in classrooms. Play is sometimes seen as separate from “real learning” or less valuable than academic work, which can lead to missed opportunities for meaningful development. When play is not fully understood or supported, children may experience more structured, less engaging learning environments that do not reflect how they learn best.
Understanding and implementing play-based learning is essential because it helps create developmentally appropriate classrooms where children can actively explore, learn, and grow. By strengthening educators’ understanding of play, we can begin to close the gap between what research tells us and what happens in everyday practice.