How to get the most learning from children's play?

Children's play is much more than simple entertainment; it is a powerful tool for learning and development. The greatest thinkers in history, such as Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky, have emphasized that play is an essential element of childhood, fostering creativity, social skills, and cognitive growth. In the contemporary context, neuroscientific research from institutions like Harvard University and the University of Oxford confirms that play activates multiple regions of the brain, strengthening neural connections and facilitating learning. But how can parents and educators extract the maximum educational value from these playful moments?

The first step is to understand that every game or activity has an inherent pedagogical potential. A simple game of hide and seek, for example, goes beyond fun—it teaches children the concepts of presence and absence, spatial awareness, and even emotional regulation when dealing with the suspense of being found. Similarly, role-playing games, such as pretending to be a doctor or a teacher, help develop empathy and problem-solving skills. By adopting methodologies such as MAT (Mindset, Action, and Theater) and ThM (Theater Movement), proposed by Antônio Carlos dos Santos, it is possible to make these experiences even more meaningful, using theatrical elements to strengthen self-expression and confidence.

Encouraging free and unstructured play is another essential strategy. Studies from Stanford University indicate that excessive structuring of children's time can hinder creativity and autonomy. Allowing children to invent their own games, create rules, and explore materials without rigid interference stimulates cognitive flexibility and resilience. An example of this is the well-known Montessori approach, which emphasizes self-directed learning and play as the foundation of knowledge acquisition.

However, it is important to strike a balance between free play and guided play. Research from the University of Cambridge shows that children learn best when adults participate in the game in an interactive and purposeful way. This means that instead of merely observing, parents and educators should ask stimulating questions, introduce new challenges, and help expand the child's thinking. For instance, if a child is building a tower with blocks, an adult might ask, "How tall can you make it without falling?" or "What happens if we change the base?" Such interventions encourage logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

Socialization through play is another critical aspect. Group games not only develop communication and cooperation skills but also teach essential values such as patience, respect, and teamwork. Classic board games, for example, help children understand the importance of following rules, dealing with frustration when losing, and celebrating achievements in a healthy way. Theater-based methodologies, such as those proposed in ThM, reinforce these skills by using body expression and movement to enhance collaboration and emotional intelligence.

The sensory aspect of play should not be underestimated. Neuroscience studies indicate that hands-on experiences help consolidate learning more effectively. Activities involving different textures, sounds, and smells—such as playing with modeling clay, sand, or musical instruments—activate different brain regions and enhance memory retention. This aligns with Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, which suggests that each child learns in a unique way, and play provides various stimuli to engage different cognitive abilities.

Outdoor play is another key factor in child development. Research from the University of British Columbia highlights that contact with nature improves children's concentration, reduces stress levels, and increases motivation for learning. Activities such as climbing trees, running freely, or playing with natural elements like leaves and stones strengthen motor coordination, spatial intelligence, and curiosity about the environment. Parents and educators should encourage these experiences, ensuring safe and stimulating environments.

The use of technology in play should also be approached thoughtfully. While excessive screen time can be harmful, educational games and interactive applications designed with pedagogical principles can contribute positively to learning. The key is to use technology as a complementary tool rather than a substitute for physical and social experiences. Studies from the MIT Media Lab reinforce that games that require active participation, such as augmented reality or robotics-based games, are more effective in stimulating creativity and problem-solving skills.

One of the most powerful ways to enrich children's play is to integrate storytelling. The MAT methodology, which incorporates elements of theater and role-playing, highlights the importance of narrative in learning. A child who tells a story while playing not only develops linguistic skills but also organizes thoughts, builds coherence in speech, and enhances imagination. Encouraging storytelling during play—whether through puppet shows, illustrated books, or creative improvisation—broadens the child's ability to express ideas and feelings.

Finally, it is crucial that adults value and actively participate in children's play. Often, the rush of daily life makes parents and educators see play as a secondary or dispensable activity. However, every moment of interaction is an opportunity for bonding, teaching, and mutual learning. When an adult plays with a child, they not only strengthen emotional ties but also show that curiosity, imagination, and joy are lifelong elements of development.

In summary, play is a gateway to learning, and its full potential can be harnessed through structured strategies, conscious interventions, and innovative methodologies such as MAT and ThM. By recognizing play as an educational tool, we transform each moment into a rich and memorable learning experience, fostering intelligent, confident, and emotionally balanced children. Encouraging and valuing play means investing in a future where learning and creativity walk hand in hand.

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