The Importance of Play

As you know we place a great emphasis on the importance of play for our youngest learners in the Early Years Foundation Stage here at BSC. Albert Einstein once said ‘play is the highest form of research,’ and we couldn’t agree more!

Play is integral to child development in so many ways and our skilled EYFS teachers and teaching assistants have designed our curriculum to ensure that children learn through purposeful play experiences.

Play and digital technology

To make sure children have time for unstructured, freely chosen play at home, try to limit screen time. The younger the child, the less time they should be using digital devices. Research shows that excessive screen time, particularly at a young age, can negatively affect children’s development. It would be a good idea to keep certain times and areas in the home technology-free zones such as:

• meals
• when outdoors
• before bed
• bedrooms

Avoid using digital devices to distract your child, instead try to find more opportunities for talking, playing, or sharing books together.

Remember that play is your child’s most natural form of expression!