What exactly is play-based learning?
Play-based learning is a type of early childhood education based on child-led and open-ended play. If you’re picturing preschoolers finger painting or ‘playing house’, you’re spot on.
Play itself is a voluntary, enjoyable activity with no purpose or end goal. Believe it or not, activities like this lay the foundation for a child to become a curious and excited learner later in life. Play-based learning helps children develop social skills, motivation to learn, and even language and numeracy skills. Taking initiative, focused attention, and curiosity about the world are all a part of play.
Elements of play-based learning
Play-based learning includes the following elements:
- Self chosen: A child voluntary chooses to play, how they’ll play, and for how long. An adult may initiate play insofar as he or she invites or suggests play but the child determines the rest.
- Enjoyable: Play is enjoyable for the child. This emotional aspect is important. There may be some frustrations or disagreements during play but overall it’s pleasurable.
- Unstructured: A child has ample time to explore and discover during play. They’re directed by their own interests, not by any prescribed rules or plans.
- Process-oriented: There is no end or learning goal. Instead, it’s the process of play that’s important.
- Make believe: Play often involves imagination, ‘make believe’, or ‘playing pretend’.
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Testimonials
Finding the perfect daycare for your little one can be so stressful and hard. I was beyond lucky to come across Kids and Co for my daughter. From the very first phone call I made to them, they have been nothing less than incredible and a pleasure to deal with. – My almost two year old daughter is learning, thriving and so well looked after, I’m grateful.
Shina Silva
My kid is going to this daycare and he is very happy to go to school now. The environment is really good and my kid is enjoying the park they have. The staffs are really helpful and very friendly with the kids and they are lovable too.. they engage kids in everyday activities which are really good.
The food they provide is really good and each day they have a different menu which is appreciable.
Parvathy Jayanthan
Where do I begin, we’re so thankful to have our son attend such a beautiful childcare centre. Hard to believe the level of care that goes into the day to day running of the service. Our little man has been attending Kids & Co for 6 months, and he absolutely loves going everyday. The educators in Bamal really do go above and beyond in making sure we feel comfortable everyday he goes to childcare.
If you’re looking for a childcare centre that feels like your own home, I strongly recommend sending your children or child to Kids & Co.
Georgia Alfonso
Our son Ethan has been attending Kids and Co for about 3 months now and we all couldn’t be happier with our decision to enrol him. From the very beginning Emma made the enrolment process so easy and is incredibly professional and a delight to deal with. All of the wonderful carers in the room are just incredible, and Ethan loves every minute of being there! Thanks to everyone at Kids and Co! Highly recommend..
Rebecca Billington
We moved to the Docklands just under a year ago and had our then 3 yr old attend Kids&Co. She transitioned beautifully and has now as a Kinder student flourished and always comes home happy and talks about her latest adventure. She is always encouraged by the staff and the interests of the students are always considered for learning opportunities. The experiences given such as a Wild Life visit, Cafe experience, Farm Days and Pony rides really immerse the children is positive ways too. Such a busy, creative and educational place that we will miss once our daughter goes to school.
