Main Components of the Play-Based Approach

Main Components of the Play-Based Approach

By Muhammad Fahrin Danish Bin Faizal (ID: SCPG2400163)

Curriculum Characteristics

The Play-Based Approach is a popular and effective method in early childhood education. In this approach, children learn naturally through hands-on experiences and meaningful play. Play is not just for fun — it helps children build skills in thinking, communication, creativity, and problem-solving (Pyle & Danniels, 2017).

Key features of the curriculum:

• Child-led learning
  Children are free to choose what they want to do. Their interests guide the learning activities and help keep them engaged.
• Flexible planning
  There is no fixed timetable. Teachers observe the children and plan activities based on their needs and curiosity.
• Learning through play
  Children gain knowledge in early literacy, maths, science, and social skills just by playing with others (The Education Hub, 2021).
• Teacher as a guide
  Teachers do not lead the play but support it. They ask open-ended questions and provide materials to extend children’s learning (Bodrova & Leong, 2015).

This approach supports children’s holistic development in a fun and relaxed way.

 Physical Setup

In a play-based classroom, the setup is very important. The environment is arranged into different learning corners that encourage exploration, independence, and creativity (The Education Hub, 2021).

Common Learning Corners:

• Home Corner
  Includes a toy kitchen set, baby dolls, dress-up clothes, and furniture. Children use this area to act out real-life situations like cooking, shopping, and taking care of others.
• Construction Corner
  Filled with blocks, Lego, wooden planks, and recycled materials. Children build structures, which helps with problem-solving and fine motor skills.
• Art Corner
  Has paints, crayons, glue, paper, scissors, and more. It encourages self-expression and improves hand control.
• Reading Corner
  A cozy area with books, pillows, and soft chairs where children can enjoy reading independently or in small groups.
• Outdoor Play Area
  Offers sand play, water tubs, climbing frames, bikes, and open space. It supports gross motor skills and social interaction.

Each corner helps children develop in different areas like imagination, teamwork, communication, and motor skills (Pyle & Danniels, 2017).

Conclusion

The Play-Based Approach helps young children learn in a natural, fun, and meaningful way. With the right curriculum and classroom setup, children can explore, create, and grow at their own pace. This method supports their overall development while keeping learning enjoyable and stress-free.

References

• Bodrova, E., & Leong, D. J. (2015). Tools of the Mind: The Vygotskian Approach to Early Childhood Education (2nd ed.). Pearson.
• Pyle, A., & Danniels, E. (2017). A continuum of play-based learning: The role of the teacher in play-based pedagogy. Early Education and Development, 28(3), 274–289.
• The Education Hub. (2021). Play-based learning. Retrieved from https://theeducationhub.org.nz/play-based-learning