Play-based learning is essential for children’s cognitive and social development, according to Dr. Roberta Golinkoff, a leading scholar in this field. It enhances language and literacy, STEM skills, hypothesis testing, and creativity. Through playful learning, children develop collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and confidence. It engages them on a deeper level, fostering enjoyment in both learning and teaching. Research indicates that early exposure to play-based learning provides a strong foundation for future success. Children who participate in early childhood education are more likely to attend college, less likely to experience incarceration, and less likely to engage in teenage pregnancy. Incorporating play in early childhood education has become increasingly important due to the lack of access to these programs in Pennsylvania. To address this, Catherine Hershey Schools has launched a $350 million plan to establish six early childhood education centers in central Pennsylvania over the next five years. These centers will provide comprehensive support to families, including a Family Success Center that offers resources for housing, employment, financial literacy, and healthcare. Playful learning is essential for children’s development and holistic well-being. By incorporating it into early childhood education, we can empower children to reach their full potential and break the cycle of poverty.
Playful Learning Foundational for Children’s Development, Expert Says
