What does ‘learning through play’ emphasize?

The emphasis on 'learning through play' highlights the idea that children acquire a wide range of skills and knowledge in a natural, engaging manner during playtime. Play is not merely a recreational activity; it serves as a vital context for learning, where children explore, experiment, and interact with their environment. This approach facilitates development in various areas, including social skills, cognitive abilities, and emotional understanding, as children navigate challenges and scenarios that require creativity and problem-solving.

In contrast, structured learning with strict guidelines might restrict a child's natural curiosity and creativity, potentially limiting their development. Competitive activities, while they can have some educational value, do not always encompass the broader range of skills that cooperative and imaginative play fosters. Similarly, viewing play as secondary to academic instruction can undermine the importance of play as a primary mode of learning, which is essential for holistic development in early years' education.