ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors explores the benefits of play, share strategies to encourage engagement in play, and justify play opportunities for all students. The value of play in helping our children thrive in their childhood learning environment will help support the increasingly complex needs of our children as they enter formal school experiences. Play has become an exception versus a norm in our Common Core classrooms. The old adage warning against a life of “all work and no play” actually may be true. Creating an environment that supports playful learning is the first step in helping to engage in play. Play provides incredibly rich learning opportunities to help support children’s later success and build their self-esteem. Supporting an early childhood classroom rich in opportunities for play also provides educators with rich opportunities to gather assessment information about their students. Play can provide an outlet not only for children but also for adults. Be sure to make time for play.
