Play is a way of learning for children. During a typical preschool day there will be structured and
unstructured periods, enabling children to learn through at their own rate. Values that support learning
through play include:
• Children are viewed as thinkers, reflecting about their world
• Purposeful play is when children learn through the process of their efforts
• Children gain knowledge by building on a path of ever increasing knowledge
• Children are encouraged to make choices and practice individual decision-making
Learning environments support purposeful play by:
• Blocks of various sizes and materials
• Materials and time for dramatic, imaginative play
• Manipulative and table toys
• Art materials and tools to explore
• Sensory play materials, including sand and water
• A library area
• Music and movement activities
• Cooking experiences
• Computer exploration
• Outdoor and gross motor play
• A quiet area for the child who needs to be alone
• Ample and rich language and print
• Writing tools and materials
At Edustoke you will find a number of playschools, preschools and day cares that teach through the play
way methodology.
