From giggling dress-up games to building block towers that tumble and rise again, play-based learning in early childhood is more than just fun—it’s a cornerstone of development. Play is how children make sense of their world, test ideas, and develop essential skills for life.
Here in Australia, our approach to early education is clear. Our frameworks, including the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), champion play-based learning as vital for young minds. Through this approach, we nurture curiosity, build confidence, and spark creativity in our little learners.
The research tells a compelling story: children immersed in play-based learning develop remarkably stronger cognitive and social-emotional skills than those in highly structured environments. Studies from Play Australia paint an even clearer picture. Together with early childhood researchers at Monash University, they’ve shown how learning through play strengthens essential life skills. From problem-solving to resilience and collaboration, these foundational abilities set children up for success—both in school and throughout their lives.
At Aurrum Kids, we integrate play-based learning examples into our curriculum, ensuring that children engage in meaningful play that supports their growth.
What Is Play-Based Learning?
What is play-based learning? It’s brilliantly simple. Instead of sitting passively and receiving instruction, children become active explorers in their own learning journey. Through play, they discover, experiment, and grow. They engage with materials that spark their curiosity, connect with peers who share their wonder, and explore environments that invite investigation—all while developing essential skills naturally.
At its heart is play-based pedagogy—a thoughtful educational framework that lets children’s interests and natural curiosity guide their learning. While little ones explore freely, educators craft an environment brimming with opportunities for discovery. They gently guide and scaffold each learning experience, striking that perfect balance. Through this approach, children remain engaged and challenged without ever feeling overwhelmed or pressured.
Benefits of Play-Based Learning
The benefits of play-based learning extend across multiple areas of development:
- Cognitive Development: Play-based learning activities strengthen memory, sharpen critical thinking, and expand language skills. Through hands-on exploration, children experiment with cause and effect, develop problem-solving strategies, and build confidence in understanding the world.
- Social and Emotional Growth: In play-based learning in early childhood, children develop empathy, resilience, and cooperation. Role-playing and group activities help them master teamwork, communication, and emotional regulation.
- Creativity and Problem-Solving: Open-ended play fosters imagination. Whether running a pretend shop or building a fort, children think outside the box, nurturing innovation and flexibility.
- Engagement and Motivation: Children learn best when they’re engaged. Play-based learning advantages include deeper comprehension, increased attention spans, and a love for learning compared to passive instruction.
Examples of Play-Based Learning Activities
Everyday experiences provide endless play-based learning examples that promote skill development. Try these fun and educational play-based learning activities:
- Outdoor Exploration: Nature offers a world of learning. Organise scavenger hunts, set up a mud kitchen, or build with natural materials. These activities enhance sensory development, fine motor skills, and problem-solving abilities.
- Role-Playing Games: Imaginative play strengthens language and social skills. Whether running a pretend supermarket or dressing up as a firefighter, children naturally develop communication and emotional intelligence.
- Art and Craft as Learning Tools: Painting, sculpting, and collaging enhance creativity while improving fine motor coordination and spatial awareness.
- Building and Construction: Playing with blocks, magnetic tiles, or recycled materials encourages engineering and mathematical thinking as children experiment with balance, weight, and design.
Why Is Play-Based Learning Important?
Parents often ask, “Why is play-based learning important?” The answer shines through in every child’s journey. Play-based learning in early childhood lays the foundation for academic and social success.
- Supporting Early Childhood Development: Through play-based learning activities, children develop early literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving abilities that prepare them for formal schooling.
- Encouraging a Love for Learning: When children learn through play, education feels natural and exciting rather than forced.
- Bridging Home and School Learning: Parents play a key role in reinforcing play-based learning advantages introduced in early childhood settings. Visit our Parent Information section to learn more.
The Role of Educators in Play-Based Learning
Educators guide play-based learning in early childhood, ensuring that play remains meaningful and enriching.
- Facilitating Meaningful Play: Teachers provide materials, ask open-ended questions, and encourage children to lead their learning experiences.
- Balancing Structured and Unstructured Play: Free play is essential, but educators also introduce structured play-based learning activities that align with developmental goals.
- Creating a Stimulating Environment: A well-designed learning space offers diverse materials and opportunities for hands-on discovery, supporting play-based learning advantages for all children.
How to Incorporate Play-Based Learning at Home
Parents play a vital role in extending play-based learning examples beyond the classroom. Here’s how to integrate learning through play into everyday life:
- Follow Your Child’s Interests: If your child loves dinosaurs, set up a backyard excavation with sand and small figurines. If music excites them, make homemade instruments to explore sound and rhythm.
- Encourage Open-Ended Play: Provide everyday items like cardboard boxes, fabric scraps, and natural materials to spark creativity and problem-solving.
- Use Everyday Tasks as Learning Moments: Cooking, gardening, and shopping offer real-life play-based learning activities, from sorting and measuring to decision-making.
Looking for more ideas? Explore Our Centres to see how Aurrum Kids integrates play-based learning into daily experiences.
Final Thoughts on Play-Based Learning
The magic of play-based learning in early childhood is that it makes education joyful, engaging, and deeply meaningful. Whether through role-playing, outdoor adventures, or creative art sessions, children develop fundamental skills that foster a lifelong love of learning.
At Aurrum Kids, we are passionate about providing a nurturing environment where children thrive. Want to see learning through play in action? Contact Us to book a visit and experience the Aurrum Kids difference.