During the golden years from 0 - 6 years old — when the brain develops most rapidly — children do not learn by passively memorizing or sitting still, waiting for their turn. They learn through play. And it is no coincidence that play is recognized as the most natural, holistic, and effective method of learning in modern early childhood education.
At Sky International Preschool—a leading international preschool in Hanoi—we believe that every moment of play is a real “classroom,” where multiple areas of the brain are activated, forming new neural connections that develop language, motor skills, emotional intelligence, and cognitive abilities. When children are forced to sit still and listen rather than play, these connections stop forming.
Play – The Best Way for the Brain to Develop Holistically
1. Activating Language Centers
When a child retells a story, plays “doctor,” or asks “Why does it rain?”, the areas of the brain responsible for language are highly engaged.
👉 They are not only building vocabulary and communication skills, but also learning to express themselves clearly and think logically.
2. Activating Motor Skills
From climbing and hopping to building wooden towers, children coordinate hand-eye movement, strengthen balance, and learn body control.
👉 These are foundational for focus and independence as they enter more structured learning environments.
3. Activating Emotional Awareness
Play brings joy, excitement, and sometimes disappointment. These emotions help children identify, regulate, and understand their inner world.
👉 Positive emotions during play deepen memory and fuel internal motivation to learn.
4. Activating Executive Functions & Memory
When children plan group play, assign roles, or resolve small conflicts, they are developing higher-order thinking skills (executive functions).
👉 These include focus, emotional regulation, problem-solving, and teamwork—key skills for lifelong learning.
Book a schedule to visit us: https://skypreschool.edu.vn/book-a-tour/
Science Supports Learning Through Play
Experts at the Harvard Center on the Developing Child* emphasize:
"Children learn best through real-life experiences paired with positive emotions. When children are allowed to choose what they love, explore freely, and overcome challenges, learning becomes deeper and more sustainable than ever before."
💜 Where Play is Learning and Learning is Discovery
At Sky—a premium international preschool with global educational perspectives—play is never just entertainment. Every part of the day is thoughtfully designed as a chance for children to explore the world, connect with others, and grow in all areas: emotionally, physically, and intellectually.
At Sky International Preschool, the learning environment nurtures children’s Body – Mind – and Emotions through:
- Open-ended materials that spark curiosity
- Exciting interdisciplinary learning projects
- A warm, supportive community of teachers who care deeply
📌 Discover more about how interdisciplinary play-based learning works:
How do children learn through play? Every play moment is a magical lesson.
*Source:
https://developingchild.harvard.edu/science/key-concepts/serve-and-return/
https://developingchild.harvard.edu/science/key-concepts/brain-architecture/
