Play Is the Cornerstone of
Learning
COGNITIVE/LANGUAGE
Distinguishes
between reality and fantasy
Encourages
creative thought and curiosity
Allows
for problem-solving
Encourages
thinking, planning
Develops memory and
perceptual skills
Develops concept formation
Learns to try on other
roles
Acquires knowledge and
integrates learning
Learns communication skills
Develops listening and oral
language skills
CREATIVE
Fosters
use of imagination and make-believe
Encourages flexible thinking and problem-solving
Supports taking risks
Learns to use senses to explore
Recreates images in buildings and art media
Sharpens observational skills
Provides a variety
Learns to express self in art, music and
Develops abilities to create images
Develops abilities to use symbols
Acquires other perspectives
Provides opportunity to act on original ideas
Provides opportunity to act on original ideas
SOCIAL
Tries on other personalities and roles
Learns cooperation and taking turns
Learns to lead, follow
Builds a repertoire of social language
Learns to verbalize needs
Reflects own culture, heritage, values
Learns society’s rules and group responsibility
Shows respect for others’ property rights
Teaches an awareness of others
Learns how to join a group
Builds awareness of self as a member of a group
Gives sense of identification
Promotes self-image, self-esteem
Experiences joy, fun
PHYSICAL
Releases energy
Builds fine- and gross-motor skills
Gains control over body
Allows for repetition and practice
Refines eye-hand coordination
Develops self-awareness
Encourages health and fitness
EMOTIONAL
Develops self-confidence and self-esteem
Learns to take different viewpoint
Resolves inner fears, conflicts
Builds trust in self and others
Reveals child’s personality
Learns to take risks
Acts out anger, hostility, frustration, joy
Gains self-control
Becomes competent in several areas
Takes initiative
adapted
from Gordon, Ann Miles and Williams-Browne, Kathryn. (2000).
Beginnings and beyond. 5th
ed. Albany, NY: Thomson Delmar. p. 410
