October 2022

Holistic learning goes beyond the surface

Because playful learning connects different skills and characteristics at once, it helps children apply things they learn in different scenarios.

Take a child who is getting to grips with numbers. They might be able to count from one to ten if they’ve memorised the numbers by rote. But they can’t put that knowledge into practice if their understanding is only surface level. If, instead, that child pretends to be a shopkeeper, they can count goods and work out how much change to give. Suddenly they have a much deeper understanding, that can spur them on in the classroom, too.

Playing adds depth to those surface skills, adding meaning that lets children combine facts with what they know of the real world.

What’s more, play helps children build on knowledge they already have and learn to learn – making it easier to pick up even more skills next time

 

To go beyond the surface, make children the main characters

From board games to construction to role-playing, there’s an infinite number of ways to play. So how can grown-ups make sure they guide children to get the most from it? The answer: tune in to what a child needs in the moment.

Agency is a  key ingredient to successful learning. That means giving children the power make their own choices, so they get to be as hands-on - and minds-on - as possible. The degree of agency that a child needs in any play activity will vary based on many factors, including whether there is a learning goal. A supportive adult should observe closely, follow the child’s lead, and be ready to support them if necessary. Just as the degree of agency will vary from activity-to-activity, so will the role of the adult. Sometimes it will be best for them to sit back and relax while the child takes the lead, while other play activities will benefit from adults taking on the role of a guide, mentor, or even cheerleader.

Dive into the research

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
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
What do children (and grown-ups) have to say about play?
We asked children around the world what they thought about play. Here’s what they had to say
At home, In the classroom, Future skills
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
Rebuilding systems around social and emotional learning
Social and emotional learning is every bit as vital as reading and writing - especially now. We spoke to policymakers around the world about how they’re reshaping education around these essential skills.
Future skills, Wellbeing