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When Harvard's Center on the Developing Child released their research about play and its profound impact on childhood development (“Play Helps Children Build Better Brains. Here Are Some Ways to Get Kids Learning“), it wasn’t just a reminder – it was a call to action for parents, educators, and caregivers everywhere. Play is more than just entertainment. It’s essential for building stronger brains and, ultimately, stronger individuals.
At Harwell School, we’ve long embraced the philosophy that play is the foundation of learning. But seeing research like this – where play is shown to impact executive function, self-regulation, and even memory – solidifies our belief. We’re not just talking about the fun games kids play with their toys or the moments they laugh with friends. We’re talking about the deep, cognitive benefits these moments bring to children.
Brain-Building Play: More Than Just Fun
Harvard’s Center on the Developing Child guide, which includes tips for babies, toddlers, and even teens, provides an excellent roadmap for how parents can support their child's development through play. Simple games like peekaboo with a 6-month-old or the memory games we encourage in our preschool classrooms—these are far more than just distractions for busy parents. They are actively helping children develop skills that will set them up for success in school and life.
The science behind play is clear. For babies, activities like "hide and seek" teach basic skills like self-control and attention. For toddlers, play develops motor skills and shapes the brain’s capacity to process the world. And for older children, games like strategy-based Dungeons & Dragons or Minecraft aren’t just a way to pass time—they are engaging brains in ways that build problem-solving abilities and creativity.
At Harwell School, we incorporate this research into everything we do. We offer structured, play-based learning environments where children’s brains are constantly challenged, nurtured, and allowed to grow at their own pace. We don’t see play as an afterthought; we see it as the main event.
From Peekaboo to STEM: Growing the Brain Through Play
While play might seem simple, it’s a vital part of childhood development at all stages. For babies, it’s about establishing secure foundations for emotional growth, like learning how to build trust through interactions. As they grow, play becomes a tool for expanding their cognitive skills. Our classrooms embrace this at every level, whether through pretend play or structured games that help kids learn how to collaborate, resolve conflict, and think critically.
And this brings us to the importance of play-based curriculum. We firmly believe that children who engage in play-based learning are more likely to have the creative problem-solving skills necessary for the challenges ahead. That’s why at Harwell, we combine the power of STEM education with creativity and artistic expression—giving our students the full spectrum of skills they need to excel academically and emotionally. After all, STEM alone can’t develop the critical social and emotional skills children need, and art alone won’t prepare them for future academic challenges. The combination of both ensures our children develop into balanced, thoughtful individuals.
The Takeaway
The Harvard research confirms what we've always known at Harwell: play is foundational to healthy brain development. From peekaboo games with babies to imaginative role play with older kids, these moments are more than just fun—they are brain-building exercises that will last a lifetime. The importance of fostering an environment where play is prioritized cannot be overstated. It’s a cornerstone of our curriculum because we know how vital it is for the long-term success of every child.
If you're wondering whether your child’s preschool is setting them up for a thriving future, take a look at their playtime. Are they given ample opportunity to learn through play? Do they have the freedom to explore, create, and problem-solve? If not, it might be time to reconsider their learning environment.
As parents, the best thing you can do for your child’s development is to encourage play at home and seek out learning environments—like Harwell School—that provide play-based education. It’s fun, it’s essential, and yes, it builds brains.
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