The Role Of Play In Nursery School Education

Play is an essential part of childhood and plays a crucial role in nursery school education. Play is more than just a fun activity for children; it is a powerful tool that helps children learn and develop. In this article, we’ll explore the role of play in EYFS nursery school education.

Development of social and emotional skills

One of the most significant benefits of play in nursery school education is the development of social and emotional skills. Through play, children learn to interact with others, share, take turns, and develop empathy. They also learn to regulate their emotions and behavior, which is essential for their emotional well-being.

Language development

Play is an excellent opportunity for children to develop their language skills. Children engage in conversations with their peers and teachers and learn new words and phrases. They also develop their storytelling abilities, which are crucial for literacy development.

Cognitive development

Play is also vital for cognitive development. When children play, they use their imagination and creativity, which helps them develop problem-solving skills. They also learn about cause and effect and spatial awareness and develop their memory skills.

Physical development

Physical development is another crucial aspect of play in nursery school education. Children engage in physical activities such as running, jumping, and climbing, which help develop their gross motor skills. They also engage in activities such as drawing and cutting, which help develop fine motor skills.

Types of play in nursery school education

In nursery school education, there are several types of play that children engage in. These include:

Free play

Children can choose their activities and play freely. This type of play encourages children to explore their interests and develop their creativity.

Structured play

Structured play is guided by a teacher and usually has a specific goal or objective. This type of play helps children develop their problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Role-play

Role-play involves children taking on different roles and acting out scenarios. This type of play helps children develop their imagination, empathy, and social skills.

Play is a crucial aspect of nursery school education. It helps children develop their social and emotional, language, cognitive, and physical skills. Nursery school educators must provide opportunities for children to engage in different types of play, such as free play, structured play, and role-play.