TIGS Prep has enthusiastically embraced remote learning as a way to engage with children and families who are staying at home. The ‘Landscapes of Possibilities’ online programme has been received positively by families and within that context, it’s more important than ever to shine a spotlight on the value of play-based learning.

Play is a basic yet vital part of childhood and is the most important vehicle through which children learn. It’s the way that children can build lifelong learning dispositions such as persistence, curiosity, flexible thinking, problem-solving and confidence. It supports children’s social, emotional, intellectual and physical development.

Play provides children with opportunities to develop their own worldview and to learn about the perspectives of others. During times of crisis, the ability to play becomes more important than ever, as it can be incredibly therapeutic for children to explore their feelings, concerns and worries and can help children to find a sense of joy and normality again.

Play-based learning is central to the Early Years Learning Framework and is all about the process that children embark on, rather than achieving a specific outcome. It’s an approach that is led by the child and supported by adults by recognising ‘teachable moments’ during play, or by carefully planning play experiences that open up opportunities for learning.

What are the benefits of play?

• Increase self-awareness, self-esteem, and self-respect
• Improve and maintain physical and mental health
• Provide the opportunity to mix with other children
• Allow children to increase their confidence by developing new skills
• Promote imagination, independence and creativity
• Offer opportunities for children of all abilities and backgrounds to play together
• Provide opportunities for developing social skills and learning
• Build resilience through risk-taking and challenge, problem-solving, and dealing with new and novel situations
• Provide opportunities to learn about their environment and the wider community

The ‘Landscapes of Possibilities’ online programme provides families with resources and suggested experiences. In this new world of remote learning, parents have become play facilitators with TIGS Prep educators providing questions to extend the children’s play. Families have been posting photos and short stories of their children playing and creating. We have loved hearing the feedback from children and their families as they have shared with us what they have been doing whilst at home. The ‘Landscapes of Possibilities’ online programme will be continued to be offered to those families choosing to keep their children at home.

Whether in person or via our online platform, TIGS Prep educators continue to value all of our TIGS Prep special little friends that we are privileged to teach. We can’t wait for all our classes to be reunited and we look forward to welcoming you back.