Play Is the Work of the Child: How Preschoolers Learn Best on Their Own Terms

“Play is the work of the child.” — Maria Montessori

At first glance, play may look like fun and games—but for children, it’s serious work. Every time a child engages in play, they are actively learning, developing skills, and building the foundation for lifelong growth.

Research shows that 75% of brain development occurs after birth, and the activities children choose to engage in directly shape the connections between neurons. These early experiences influence everything from fine and gross motor skills, language, and social awareness, to creativity, problem-solving, and emotional well-being.

In other words, play is not a break from learning, it is learning.

Why Play Matters for Preschool Development

Children learn best when they can explore, experiment, and follow their own interests. Montessori philosophy recognizes that children develop naturally when given the freedom to choose and engage with materials that spark their curiosity.

Through play, children:

• Build muscle control and coordination

• Explore cause and effect

• Strengthen social skills through cooperation and teamwork

• Expand language, creativity, and problem-solving skills

• Discover their own strengths, preferences, and learning style

The best learning happens when children are allowed to learn at their own rhythm—and if that means exploring science, music, or art to the beat of their own drummer, that’s exactly how they should learn.

Preschooler learning about static electricity in Treetops Montessori Preschool in a way that's fun and memorable to her.

Montessori Play: Purposeful, Creative, and Independent

Montessori emphasized that play should be:

• Voluntary and enjoyable – Children should feel motivated from within

• Purposeful and spontaneous – Learning comes from real engagement

• Creative and problem-solving oriented – Activities encourage innovation and critical thinking

• Socially adaptive – Children learn cooperation and empathy naturally

• Emotionally supportive – Play helps children process feelings and build resilience

When children are free to choose their activities, they develop self-confidence, independence, and a love of learning that lasts long past preschool.

The Problem with Modern Play

Today, many children spend a large portion of their time in passive entertainment—TV, video games, tablets, and apps. Even some toys dictate exactly how a child should play, limiting imaginative exploration and independent problem-solving.

While technology has its place, Montessori reminds us that unstructured, hands-on play is irreplaceable. Children need time to:

• Explore materials freely

• Experiment and make mistakes

• Collaborate with peers without strict instructions

• Use their imagination to create new worlds
  

How Parents Can Support Meaningful Play

To nurture your child’s natural learning rhythm:

1. Offer a variety of materials – blocks, art supplies, science experiments, and sensory tools

2. Allow unstructured play time – resist over-scheduling or directing every activity

3. Encourage exploration – follow their interests, even if it seems unconventional

4. Let them solve problems – step back and observe rather than intervene immediately

5. Support social play – invite peers but allow children to negotiate roles and interactions

When parents provide space for creative, independent play, children naturally develop skills essential for success in school and life.

Play, Montessori, and the Beat of Your Child’s Drum

Every child is unique. Some children learn best by moving, some by touching and experimenting, some by observing and reflecting. Montessori classrooms are built around this principle: follow the child’s lead.

If your child wants to explore science through hands-on experiments, paint their own interpretation of a story, or investigate patterns in nature, let them. Learning to their own rhythm builds confidence, curiosity, and resilience—the core of Montessori education.

Take the Next Step

You can support your child’s natural learning rhythm at home—but the full Montessori experience comes alive in the classroom.

Schedule a Montessori classroom visit today at Treetops Montessori preschool and see how play, exploration, and independence shape children into confident, capable learners.

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