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Why play matters more than you might think
When young children play, they are not just playing. They are testing ideas, building confidence, and learning how the world works.
At The British International School of Boston (BISB), play-based learning sits at the heart of our Early Years programme. It gives children the space to explore, ask questions, and learn in ways that feel natural and meaningful to them.
Here are the five biggest benefits of play-based learning, and why it makes such a strong start to your child’s education.
Children learn best when they are engaged. Play captures their attention and turns curiosity into action.
Through carefully planned play, your child begins to understand early maths, language, and problem-solving skills. They count as they build, tell stories as they role-play, and experiment as they explore materials.
This kind of learning sticks because it is active, not passive.
At BISB, our teachers design play experiences that support the British Early Years Foundation Stage curriculum while allowing children to follow their interests.
Play gives children choices. What to build. How to solve a problem. Who to work with.
Each decision helps your child develop confidence and independence. They learn that their ideas matter and that mistakes are part of learning.
Over time, children become more willing to try new things, speak up, and take responsibility for their learning.
Some of the most important learning happens between children.
Through play, your child learns how to share, take turns, listen, and negotiate. They learn how to manage emotions and build friendships.
At BISB, play-based learning supports wellbeing by creating a calm, joyful environment where children feel safe and supported.
Play invites children to imagine, design, test, and rethink.
Whether they are building a bridge, creating a story, or exploring materials, children learn how to think critically and creatively.
These skills form the foundation for STEAM learning and innovation in later years.
Play creates constant opportunities for talk.
Children explain their ideas, ask questions, and learn new words as they interact with teachers and classmates.
A strong start that lasts
Play-based learning is a powerful approach that supports academic success, wellbeing, and a lifelong love of learning.
If you would like to see play-based learning in action, we would love to welcome you.
Book a school tour or contact our admissions team to learn more about our Early Years program.