Learning Through Play

“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” –Fred Rogers

Learning through play is a topic that our Occupational Therapy team is passionate about. Playing allows children to learn how to interact with their environment and to expand their imagination and creativity. Playing can also help children develop fine and gross motor skills, which are essential to reaching developmental milestones as they age. It is important for parents and caregivers to provide children with a safe and playful environment to encourage skill development.

Some examples of this include sensory play, puzzles, painting, and pretend play. Throughout play time there should be a balance between structured and free play, as they are equally valuable in skill development. Structured play is where children have the opportunity to learn to follow directions and rules in an organized game, and free play gives children the opportunity to expand their imagination by freely directing their own play however they choose.

When playing is considered a priority in a child’s life, it becomes much more than just fun! If you are interested in learning more about this topic, please feel free to contact us here at Midwest Therapy Center!