A large body of research demonstrates the immense benefits of play for children’s academic learning and development. However, “playful learning,” a teaching approach that uses free-play as well as guided-play activities, is disappearing from many school settings, especially in schools located in underserved communities. This brief discusses the value of play, highlights playful learning approaches at the UCLA Community School, and introduces organizations that advocate for play-based learning policies.
Suggested Citation
Franco, J., & Pérez-Swanson, G. Nurturing Play: How Schools can Provide Powerful Opportunities for Children to Learn: A Research, Practice, & Policy Brief. UCLA Center for Community Schooling.