How to promote playful learning: insights from innovative early childhood classrooms in the USA

Metehan Buldu () and Elif Buldu
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Metehan Buldu: Kırıkkale University
Elif Buldu: Middle East Technical University & TED University

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications, 2025, vol. 12, issue 1, 1-8

Abstract: Abstract Playful learning is recognized as a multifaceted approach that fosters a range of children’s abilities while supporting developmentally appropriate practices. It promotes holistic learning experiences that extend beyond a narrow emphasis on academic content alone. In this paper, the researchers provided explicit information about playful learning in early childhood education by investigating teachers who are committed to playful learning in the education context of the United States. To provide a powerful understanding of playful learning practices, this case study research investigated the views of 11 early childhood teachers through interviews and observations. The findings of the study revealed that the teachers view playful learning as the most appropriate way to support children, learning, and teaching. The participant teachers view playful learning as an important strategy to support children’s agency in learning, as it provides free-flowing exploration. The findings once again emphasized the importance of playful learning, which should be understood more by teachers and parents.

Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-05291-z

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