Parents often hear of the importance of play in preschool. But playing with dolls and blocks seems to have little to do with the academic knowledge that children will need to succeed in kindergarten. So why is it so important?
Play is the foundation for all learning for young children, and giving your child the time and a few basic toys can provide her with a variety of valuable learning opportunities. “Play is how children begin to understand and process their world,” says Angie Rupan, programme coordinator for the Child Development Centre in South San Francisco, CA, and early childhood educator for over 20 years. “Children's play unlocks their creativity and imagination and develops reading, thinking, and problem-solving skills as well as further develops motor skills. It provides the base foundation for learning.”
Why is play so important and what do preschoolers learn when they play? Try a few of these simple ideas with items you have around your house and learn about the educational benefits that each can provide for your child.
Language and Vocabulary Development
When playing with other children or adults, vocabulary and language skills are fostered. Your child will listen and learn the language she hears without even realizing. Children will learn to use language to communicate meaning as well as pick up new words and hear the grammatical structure of the English language.
Imagination and Creativity
In our fast-paced and high-tech society, children have fewer and fewer opportunities to use and develop their creativity. Children who are not given
frequent opportunities to play may have a difficult time entertaining themselves, as they simply do not know what to do without instruction. By providing opportunities for open-ended play, your child will automatically get her creative juices flowing, and the possibilities are endless.
Problem Solving and Mathematics
Children can solve complex problems that arise as they play and learn a few mathematical principals as well. Blocks and puzzles are excellent “basics” to
provide your child with many opportunities to foster these important skills.
Gross and Fine Motor Development
Gross motor skills involve the large muscles of the legs and arms, while fine motor development is building the muscles of the hands that will be used for writing. Play can provide many opportunities to work on strengthening these muscles without your child even being aware of it!
Gather up the toys you have around the house and make it a point to provide ample time for play. Playing around with your child is sure to provide many
Work Cited
“Play in Preschool: Why does it matter?” education.com, education.com, https://www.education.com/download-pdf/article/32793/. Accessed Friday, February 20, 2026.
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