The Role of Play Based Learning in Early Childhood Development

Riska Wulandari Sitorus, Khairi Permana Siregar, Ratih Irma Sari — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study investigates how play-based learning activities improve the cognitive and social along with emotional and physical development of early childhood students. The research design uses both interviews with teachers and parents as well as direct observation to explore how play-based learning activities help develop every aspect of development. The research indicates that through play children become better at learning new information while also developing creativity skills and critical thinking abilities as well as social and emotional competencies through empathy and emotional control and they are able to learn physically through better motor skills. The research study delivers practical solutions for implementing play in scheduled curriculum alongside key implementation strategies for resolving related problems. The existing research gap enables this study to provide complete knowledge about effective methods to implement play-based learning within early childhood education for children's comprehensive development. Finding in this investigation demonstrate the necessity to combine developmental progress with academic achievements while following present learning system measurements of achievement.

Improving Early Childhood Learning Outcomes Through Active Play and Exploration

Ayu Ningsi, Nurhidayah Nurhidayah, Nurfadillah Nurfadillah — Thu, 10 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This qualitative study explores the impact of active play and exploration on early childhood learning outcomes, focusing on three early childhood education centers in Makassar City. Employing a case study design, the research utilized participant observations, semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions, and document analysis to gather comprehensive insights. The findings reveal that active play significantly fosters cognitive development by enhancing problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity. Social and emotional development were also evident as children engaged in collaborative activities, fostering teamwork, empathy, and self-regulation. Educators played a critical role in facilitating meaningful play experiences through structured guidance and adaptive strategies, while parents highlighted the importance of play in extending learning beyond the classroom. This study addressed gaps in the literature by providing context-specific evidence of the effectiveness of play-based learning in a cultural setting where traditional rote-learning approaches dominate. The findings emphasize the need for a balanced approach that incorporates both child-led and teacher-facilitated play, ensuring alignment with developmental goals. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of collaboration between educators and families to optimize the benefits of play-based learning. The implications of this study suggest that policymakers and educators should prioritize active play as an integral component of early childhood curricula. By doing so, they can promote holistic child development and create enriched learning environments that nurture lifelong skills.

Educia Journal

The Role of Play Based Learning in Early Childhood Development

Improving Early Childhood Learning Outcomes Through Active Play and Exploration