Learning
Creative Play a Powerful Learning Method
I’ve been interested in the role of play in learning since I realized that a lot of the ways in which I learn seem to look like I’m playing around. A recent piece by NPR delves deeply into the role that play, especially creative play, has on the learning process. Researchers conclude that creative play beginning at a young age is critical for the development of the cognitive skill called executive function. Executive function is responsible for self-control, self-discipline, and cognitive flexibility. To quote NPR, “Poor executive function is associated with high dropout rates, drug use and crime.” They go even further to say: “In fact, good executive function is a better predictor of success in school than a child’s IQ.”
Not surprisingly, television and video games, which typically do not engage people in creative play, stunt the development of executive function; video games set all the rules for you and television provides no means for interactivity at all.
The entire NPR story, plus Q&A between parents of young children and developmental psychologists can be found at:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=76838288#73598288
So before you go out and buy your children that XBox 360 they’ve been wanting, consider the long term effects of choosing that type of play over more traditional, more flexible types that rely on the creativity, and self-regulation, of your growing child. Self control is the bed rock for good management and leadership and the play that your child engages in now could help determine how influential he or she becomes as an adult.
Related posts:
Discussion
2 comments for “Creative Play a Powerful Learning Method”
Post a comment
Interesting blog and totally relevant post! I checked out the NPR piece as well and enjoyed it. I work for a swingset company and am a mom so creative play is part of my everyday! Just watching children engage in imaginative playtime makes it obvious they are soaking up relationship dynamics and information. By being able to interact with their learning environment and by creating that environment themselves, they are no doubt setting lifelong lessons.
Anyways, just wanted to say I enjoyed your post…
Thanks!
Liz Renter
http://www.CedarWorks.com
Liz,
Thanks for your comment. Like you, I also observe that when children play, they learn so much. I wonder if that is part of the reason they can learn so much faster than we (adults) can; during play, children have few preconceived notions of of how things should be and just go with whatever is happening, new or old.
I am convinced we have much to learn from them =)
BTW, I checked out your website and am very impressed with your product and how well designed your site is. Your swing set design tools are fabulous!