Play is ‘the basis of all art, games, books, sports, movies, fashion, fun, and wonder – in short, the basis of what we think of as civilization.’ (Dr. Stuart Brown 2009).
Play is a central part of our human experience! From a baby exploring objects in their surroundings, toddlers experimenting with their environment while older children can manipulate and control their environment.
While some have defined play as "any activity freely chosen, intrinsically motivated, and personally directed, non-serious , has no particular goal other than itself."
Play can be integrated and applied to intentional learning.
Maria Montessori once stated:
"Play is the work of the child.” Note: The play concept we explored in Planning for Play in STEAM pt1 is similar to this.
What does that quote actually mean?
Simply put, the Montessori approach to play is learning skills that have a practical application...in a fun way.
In general adults would not associate work with play! To understand the quote, we must come to know a deeper definition of work.
In physics when we talk about work it has a specific meaning and definition. It is a force applied to something across a distance This is, when work is done, this is evidence of energy that is used to make a change.
So let's apply this new definition of work to play. When children interact with their environment (i.e things or people) their actions often carry an intention to change their surroundings, that is, they do work. We learned about this in the lesson called control. Where the playfulness aspect becomes obvious is in the spontaneity of how actions are directed, childs-play can be full of surprise and serves as a motivation to search out the next thing.
Why is play important?
Experience and research has shown that some amazing things happen when we play! Our brain chemistry is altered in a positive direction.
We make deeper memories.
Creativity is fired up. We connect with others through shared experiences.
So we encourage you to play! Play with your students. Play with new ideas. Play with family and friends. Play for your own education!
Additional Reading
How Play Shapes the Brain
From a leading expert, a groundbreaking book on the science of play, and its essential role in fueling our happiness and intelligence throughout our lives.
Play In Children’s Development, Health And Well-Being
Learn how play and interaction promotes brain development
To grow up healthy, children need to sit less and play more
New WHO guidelines on physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep for children under 5 years of age
Attention
Learn more about different types of attention, including selective attention.
