Why Play Matters: Unlocking the Power of Play in Early Childhood Development

Play is essential to early childhood development, fostering cognitive, physical, social, and emotional growth. In Why Play?, Rae Pica argues that, despite pressures to focus on academics early, play is a more effective vehicle for learning, building skills like problem-solving, collaboration, and creativity that children carry into adulthood. Through play, children learn to navigate social dynamics, explore their imaginations, and build resilience. Pica emphasizes that play allows children to experiment, experience risk in a controlled way, and gain a sense of autonomy and discovery—building blocks for lifelong learning.

Play isn’t just “fun”; it’s foundational. As Pica illustrates, when children engage in free, unstructured play, they aren’t just being “kids”; they’re developing skills that standard academics can’t always foster. Additionally, by incorporating diverse play types—like cooperative or imaginative play—educators can support children in learning at their own pace, all while ensuring that the classroom environment respects the natural rhythms of childhood.

In advocating for play, Pica provides educators with strategies to help explain to parents why this approach is vital for children’s well-being and holistic development. Her guidance is particularly valuable for balancing academic expectations with the innate needs of children to learn through play. For those interested, Why Play? is available through Teachers College Press.