The importance of Play in School Readiness

Many early interventions aim to use play to support School Readiness:

The Early Years Foundation Stage guides Childcare, Preschools, Childminders, Nursery and Reception Classes was based on research into Effective Provision of  Preschool Education (Sylva et al 2010) that found that children made better progress in School when they had a mix of adult lead and child led activity advocating play as a vital part of children ‘s play.  

The EYFS Statutory framework for the early years foundation stage (publishing.service.gov.uk) says:

This framework does not prescribe a particular teaching approach. Play is essential for children’s development, building their confidence as they learn to explore, relate to others, set their own goals and solve problems. Children learn by leading their own play, and by taking part in play which is guided by adults. Practitioners need to decide what they want children in their setting to learn, and the most effective ways to teach it. Practitioners must stimulate children’s interests, responding to each child’s emerging needs and guiding their development through warm, positive interactions coupled with secure routines for play and learning. As children grow older and move into the reception year, there should be a greater focus on teaching the essential skills and knowledge in the specific areas of learning. This will help children to prepare for year 1. (EYFS 2023 page 16)