Why school time is playtime

It’s official: play belongs in school. We’ve investigated eight different teaching methods to uncover the playfulness that’s already there. Dive in to learn more

Why children should play throughout the school day

Learning through play is powerful. We’ve seen the evidence that children thrive on play, developing lifelong skills and boosting their achievements in the classroom. Now we’ve been gathering tried-and-tested evidence from schools and teachers who put play in their lesson plans.

Playful Learning Pilot at Vorbasse School

Not ready to read the whole paper yet? 

Here are the highlights:

Learning through play is already part of some primary school teaching
It’s time for a new teaching model

If you’re a teacher, headteacher or just eager to get to grips with learning models around the world, take a look at our whitepaper

More research

How can reading be more playful?
Play is a powerful tool for children's language development. Here's why playful reading is so important.
In the classroom, Future skills
Learning through play: what the science says
Do you know that play builds brains? We look at research that shows how playful learning experiences lay the foundations for brain development and develops 21st century skills
In the classroom, At home, Future skills
The relationship between learning through play and holistic skills
Learning through play helps children develop the skills they need to thrive. And we’ve got an ever-growing body of evidence to illustrate it. Take a look.
Future skills, In the classroom
Positive play in a digital age
Children spend more time online than ever – so it is vitally important that digital platforms are a safe space to explore and learn through play. Here’s how organisations are steering industry and governments to put children’s wellbeing first.
Technology, Wellbeing
Why creativity matters and how play nurtures creative minds
Creativity is instinctive in children – and just as essential in adults. Here’s an introduction to what we know so far about why and how we should make space for children to hone creative skills.
In the classroom, At home, Future skills, Systems reform

Ready to play?

Find plenty of playful inspiration to help your student or child unleash their inner superhero

More
pictures of cow and bowl with toy animals

Act Like an Animal

Ages: 0-3 years

People: 2+

Duration: 15-30 minutes

Girl throwing paper ball at the target on the floor

Jumping Caps

Ages: 0-3 years

People: 2+

Duration: 15-30 minutes

Parachutes

Ages: 6-9 years

People: 1+

Duration: 30-60 minutes

Home made robots on a table

Art Bots

Ages: 6-9 years

People: 2+

Duration: 60+ minutes

Dive into our latest news, research, blogs and project stories

March 2024 News
Celebrating the UN adoption of an International Day of Play
June 2023 Opinion
5 signs you’re (already) a playful parent
October 2022 Evidence
World Mental Health Day: How play can support children’s mental health
July 2022 Evidence
Good Life at home and at play
June 2022 Opinion
For families to play more, we need better policies
Playful parenting is a huge child development boost – but parents are too often over-stretched and under-supported. Here’s how systems can help families unlock the power of play.