Learning Through Play at Bright Horizons

At Bright Horizons, we prioritize the joy of childhood and make sure it is predominant in each classroom. We celebrate, elevate, and prioritize play in all its forms in the following ways:

• We offer a variety of engaging materials to provoke play and build a flexible schedule that allows ample time for play
• We observe the children. We enter their play respectfully, following their lead when possible. We think outside the box, offering new materials as needed. 
• We model play for younger children — or for children who struggle to play.
• We ask open-ended questions and statements that provoke children’s thinking, e.g., “I wonder what would happen if…” or “What could we use this for?”  
• We watch for and guide children through frustration and conflict. We teach children skills, such as how to use materials and how to ask for a turn or share a toy. 
• We honor and allow mess, knowing it is part of the process. We occasionally stop to gather materials quietly behind the scenes as needed, not in an effort to control but to maintain an engaging, user-friendly environment. 
• We create flexible schedules and routines, allowing changes to accommodate play. 
• We use playful experiences, gentle humor, and positive communication to create joyful classroom experiences for children, families, and teachers.

Imaginative lay, or pretend play, can occur during all the other types of play; it is what most of us think of when we use the word “play.” During imaginative play, children try out new ideas or take on different personas. They might assign roles and make objects into props. When children engage in rich pretend play, they are creating and imagining in the moment. They develop language, resolve conflict, solve problems, work collaboratively, and gain resilience. Imaginative play is a powerful vehicle for working through childhood fears or learning new skills.

We believe that it is the primary vehicle for optimal growth in childhood. The benefits of play in early childhood are countless. When children play, they are very likely collaborating, negotiating, problem-solving, role-playing, experimenting, creating, innovating, and communicating, among other things. Play is for learning. It offers children opportunities to explore and practice concepts, to research and test ideas without worrying about a right or wrong answer, and to learn about others and themselves. Most important, it provides meaningful and integrated experiences that nurture whole-child growth and development.

Please visit our World at Home page for hundreds of learning (and playing!) at home ideas. We also have suggestion available for educational toys and books for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.