Play-Based Learning Activities: What It Is and 20 Ideas

Play-based learning means children learn by exploring, pretending and experimenting, with adults supporting and asking questions. It is a key part of early childhood education in Australia, and you can do it at home.

What children learn through play

• Language, by talking and pretending.
• Maths, by counting, sorting and building.
• Social skills, by sharing and taking turns.
• Creativity and problem solving.
• Fine and gross motor skills.

20 play-based ideas

1. Pretend shop
2. Kitchen helper
3. Water play
4. Playdough
5. Building blocks
6. Dress ups
7. Sensory bin
8. Nature walk
9. Sand play
10. Music and dance
11. Story acting
12. Painting
13. Sorting treasures
14. Obstacle course
15. Puppet show
16. Gardening
17. Cardboard box cubby
18. Bubble play
19. Simple science, like baking soda and vinegar
20. Teddy picnic

How adults can help

• Follow your child's interests.
• Ask open questions: What do you think will happen?
• Join in, then step back.
• Let them make mistakes and try again.
• Comment on what they are doing.

Where do worksheets fit?

A few short worksheets can sit alongside play. The key is to keep them light and let your child lead.