In a world where children from diverse backgrounds often face unequal opportunities, the power of play stands out as a universal equalizer. Through play, children can explore their potential, regardless of their socio-economic status and personal circumstances. Grounded in research, this article delves into how play can support inclusion and offer boundless opportunities for children aged 0-5 years to thrive.

The Magic of Play

Play is not just about fun and games; it’s a fundamental aspect of early childhood development. According to the LEGO Foundation’s report "Learning Through Play: Increasing Impact, Reducing Inequality," play promotes a wide range of skills, from cognitive and social to emotional and physical development​. When children engage in play, they embark on a journey of discovery, creativity, and learning.

Play and Inclusion: Breaking Down Barriers

One of the most powerful aspects of play is its ability to foster inclusion. Play transcends language barriers, cultural differences, and physical abilities, providing a common ground where all children can participate and feel valued. Research has shown that inclusive play environments enable children to interact, learn from each other, and develop empathy and understanding​​.

For instance, free play and guided play have been identified as effective strategies in promoting inclusion. These types of play allow children to make choices, express themselves, and engage with peers in meaningful ways. Teachers and caregivers can facilitate these play experiences by providing diverse materials and creating an environment that encourages exploration and collaboration.

Inclusive environments

Creating inclusive environments where every child feels valued and supported is essential. The Play Hubs, part of the TOY for Inclusion project, is a stellar example of this in action. These hubs provide a safe and inclusive space for children from diverse backgrounds to play and learn together. They promote social inclusion and help break down barriers between different community groups, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual respect among children and their families.

The Play Hubs highlight the importance of community-based non-formal education settings that complement formal education. Besides creating playful learning opportunities, these hubs are about building relationships, enhancing cooperation between families and educational institutions, and supporting children's holistic development​.

Play as a Tool for Learning and Equality

The educational benefits of play are well-documented. Play-based learning supports the development of critical thinking, problem-solving, and social skills. According to the LEGO Foundation’s study, interventions that incorporate play have been successful in closing achievement gaps between children from different socio-economic backgrounds.

For example, structured play activities that integrate academic concepts, such as counting games or storytelling, can enhance learning while making it enjoyable. In resource-constrained settings, play can be a cost-effective way to deliver quality education. Teachers can use locally available materials to create engaging and educational play experiences.

Real-World Examples

Let's look at some real-world examples where play has made a significant impact for disadvantaged children:

1. TOY for Inclusion Play Hubs in eight European countries:  Play Hub in Roškovce, Slovakia has built strong relationships based on trust and mutual respect. It serves as a crucial link between various community services and, local and Ukrainian refugee families, providing access to information, support, and playful learning opportunities.
2. South Africa’s Early Childhood Development Centers: These centers use play-based curricula to support children’s holistic development. Through activities like music, dance, and storytelling, children from disadvantaged backgrounds gain essential skills and confidence.
3. India’s Anganwadi Centers: These government-run centers provide early childhood care and education to rural and urban poor children. Play is a central component of their programs, helping children develop social and cognitive skills while fostering a love for learning.
4. Inclusive Playgrounds in the USA: Many communities in the United States have built inclusive playgrounds that accommodate children with disabilities. These playgrounds feature sensory-rich equipment and accessible designs, allowing all children to play together.

Strategies for Promoting Play

To harness the power of play for all children, consider the following strategies:

• Create Inclusive Play Spaces: Design play areas that are accessible to children of all abilities. Include sensory play elements and equipment that supports diverse physical needs.
• Encourage Free and Guided Play: Balance free play, where children choose their activities, with guided play for adults to introduce learning concepts=. This combination supports both independence and targeted skill development.
• Integrate Play into Daily Routines: Make play a regular part of the day, both at home and in early childhood education settings. Simple activities like building with blocks, playing with water, or role-playing can have profound educational benefits.
• Support Playful Learning at Home: Parents and caregivers can create a playful learning environment at home by providing a variety of materials and opportunities for imaginative play. Encourage curiosity and let children lead their play experiences.
• Train Educators in Play-Based Methods: Provide professional development for teachers and caregivers on the benefits of play and how to effectively integrate play into the curriculum. This training can help educators feel more confident in using play as a teaching tool.

To sum: Play is a right for every child

Play is a powerful equalizing factor in early childhood, offering every child the chance to explore their potential and develop crucial skills. By creating inclusive play environments and integrating play into early education, we can support all children, regardless of their background, in their journey to becoming creative, engaged, and lifelong learners.

As we embrace the power of play, let’s remember that every child deserves the chance to play, learn, and thrive. Together, we can create a world where play is not just a privilege but a right for every child.

References

Dowd, A. J., & Thomsen, B. S. (2021). Learning Through Play: Increasing Impact, Reducing Inequality. The LEGO Foundation. Retrieved from learning-through-play-increasing-impact_reducing-inequality_white-paper.pdf

Black, M. M., Walker, S. P., Fernald, L. C. H., Andersen, C. T., DiGirolamo, A. M., Lu, C., ... & Grantham-McGregor, S. (2017). Early childhood development coming of age: science through the life course. The Lancet, 389(10064), 77-90.

ICDI (2023) Toolkit on Inclusive Community-based ECEC. TOY for Inclusion: Access for all. Leiden: ICDI.

UNICEF. (2019). A World Ready to Learn: Prioritizing Quality Early Childhood Education. Retrieved from https://www.unicef.org/reports/world-ready-to-learn-2019

OECD. (2016). PISA 2015 Results (Volume I): Excellence and Equity in Education. OECD Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.oecd.org/education/pisa-2015-results-volume-i-9789264266490-en.htm

Zosh, J. M., Hopkins, E. J., Jensen, H., Liu, C., Neale, D., Hirsh-Pasek, K., & Whitebread, D. (2018). Learning through play: a review of the evidence. The LEGO Foundation. Retrieved from https://www.legofoundation.com/en/learn-how/knowledge-base/learning-through-play/

In partnership with LEGO Foundation and UNICEF, ISSA is committed to protecting children's right to play. Together, we are supporting parents and caregivers to engage in Playful Parenting.