Have you ever wondered why the eyes of a child light up when they are playing? Have you ever wondered how learning happens in children? Or why some of the best memories we have about our childhood often revolve around moments of us learning something new whilst playing with our friends? The obvious delight that children get from playing and having fun cannot be overstated. We explore the Science of Playing and how education and learning happen naturally through it.

But first…

What is Playing?

In the context of kids, it is any fun activity outside of studying or doing chores. When we think of children playing as adults, we envision them running aimlessly, giggling, rummaging through toys, or speaking to their imaginary friends. We tend to associate the act of kids playing with them having mindless fun. However, studies show something different. 

A study on Why Children Play, carried out by researchers from Harvard Graduate School of Education and the University of California, Berkeley, highlighted the vital mental development that occurs when children participate in the act of playing. It further shows that critical thinking skills and learning development tend to take shape when children are playing for fun.

The Intrinsic Reward for Playing 

In the study, two outdoor experiments were conducted involving a bowling game created by one of the researchers. The goal was to determine what selections children made when certain settings were added to the game to make it easier or more difficult as they played for fun or to win.

It turned out that during the experiment, children in one group chose harder settings when they were playing for fun rather than playing to win. In essence, children can unlock their potential through play and push their mental capabilities by selecting harder settings of the games when they know they can have all the fun they want. 

The Value of Playing 

The study helped researchers understand that intrinsic rewards driven by internal goals mattered to children even when they were playing. This also underpins the value of educational learning websites like The LEGO Foundation’s Learning Through Play (LtP) initiative. Even The Special Foundations Charity Football match is an example of the value of play in educating children. It doesn’t matter if the playful act seems silly; what matters is how active a child’s brain is in that moment of careless bliss. 

The age-old saying “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy” comes to mind. It is safe to say that there is nothing mindless about the act of playing. It therefore stands to reason that as parents, teachers, or guardians, it is important to prioritize letting your child(ren) wholeheartedly enjoy their playful moments. Sometimes for no simpler reason than witnessing the unbridled joy that lights up their eyes. 

In Conclusion…

The true path to educating any child is ensuring a balance is achieved between “work” and “play.” Imbibing the value of hard work in a child is vital. But it helps to remember that a playful child is often a happy child. Therefore, finding that balance where we actively encourage the playfulness of children, albeit providing them with the guidance to play responsibly, is pivotal to their overall mental development. 

It also helps to be reminded that there are valuable life skills to be gotten from playful moments. Children can learn the value of sharing when playing turns in a game. They can learn the value of empathy when comforting a friend who stumbles during a race. They can also learn the value of critical thinking when trying to figure out where the next piece of the puzzle should fit. This is why our Special Summer School free educational programs are replete with as much fun and learning as our kids can get. 

We hope to keep doing more of this going forward with your continued support. So, you’re welcome to donate to our cause or join us as a volunteer or partner today.  

Remember: 

Every child is your child, every child has a right to dream.