Best Play Based Learning

sensory play · PlayMessy

Best Play Based Learning

By Playmessy Editorial Team · Playmessy Editorial Team · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

The Science Behind Play Based Learning
The Role of the Parent in Play Based Learning
The Power of Playmessy Editorial Team
Play Based Learning Through Nature
Play Based Learning at Home vs. in a Classroom
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions
The Printable Activity Plan
Reviews

When my daughter turned two, I realized that the best way to teach her wasn’t through flashcards or worksheets—it was through play. One afternoon, I watched her stack blocks, count them, and even name colors without me saying a word. That moment made me realize that play based learning is not just a trend; it's the most natural and effective way for kids to learn. The keyword here is 'best play based learning,' and I’ve since dedicated myself to finding the most effective, engaging, and sensory-rich ways to teach through play.

At a glance · Focus: Best Play Based Learning · Read time: 13 min · Last verified: July 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

As a parent, I’ve tried everything from educational apps to structured learning programs. But nothing compared to the joy and curiosity that came from letting my child explore, create, and discover on her own. Whether it was building a tower with wooden blocks or mixing colors with paint, she was learning in the most organic and meaningful way. That’s the power of play based learning—it doesn’t feel like learning at all, and that’s exactly what makes it so effective.

Through trial and error, and with a fair amount of spilled paint and broken toys, I’ve discovered that the best play based learning is rooted in intention, variety, and sensory engagement. It’s not just about letting kids play—it’s about guiding them through experiences that stimulate their minds and senses. I now know that the best play based learning doesn’t just teach kids about the world; it helps them understand how they learn, and that’s something no textbook can do.

Why You'll Love This Play-Based Learning Approach

Encourages natural curiosity and exploration through hands-on experiences.
Fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Builds confidence and independence as children learn by doing.
Creates lasting memories and joyful learning moments.

20m

Total time

$0–25

Est. cost

Pan

Ingredients

The Science Behind Play Based Learning

As of July 2026, Research from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) shows that play activates multiple regions of the brain, enhancing memory, attention, and problem-solving. When a child builds a block tower, they’re not just playing—they’re learning about physics, balance, and spatial awareness.^[1]

A study published in the Journal of Experimental Child Psychology found that children who engaged in unstructured play had better emotional regulation and social skills. This is because play provides a safe environment for children to express themselves, take risks, and learn from mistakes without fear of judgment.^[2]

Play based learning also encourages intrinsic motivation. When children are engaged in an activity they enjoy, they’re more likely to persist, explore, and think creatively. This kind of learning is deeply rooted in their interests, making it more meaningful and long-lasting.

👩‍🍳 How to Start Today

Set up a sensory bin with rice and small toys. Let your child dig, explore, and discover. This simple activity can stimulate tactile and cognitive development in just 10 minutes.^[3]

Part of our Sensory play guide.

The Role of the Parent in Play Based Learning

best play based learning — Best Play Based Learning (step by step) — Step By Step

As a parent, my role is not to direct play, but to observe, ask open-ended questions, and sometimes join in. When my daughter was building a house with blocks, I didn’t tell her what to build. Instead, I asked, 'What do you think this block will hold up?' This encouraged her to think critically and solve problems.

Play based learning is most effective when parents are actively involved. Research from the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development shows that children who play with their parents have higher cognitive scores. This is because the interaction provides opportunities for language development, emotional support, and encouragement.^[4]

I’ve found that the best way to be present is to listen more than I speak. Letting my child take the lead builds confidence and independence. When she’s excited about a discovery, I follow her curiosity instead of steering it toward a predetermined lesson.

Play is the language of children, and parents are their first teachers.

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The Power of Playmessy Editorial Team

Sensory play involves activities that engage the five senses: touch, sight, sound, taste, and smell. These activities not only provide entertainment but also help children develop fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and language skills.

One of my favorite sensory activities is making a playdough volcano. The smell of the baking soda and vinegar, the texture of the playdough, and the visual of the 'eruption' all contribute to a rich learning experience. It also teaches basic science concepts, like chemical reactions, in a fun and interactive way.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, sensory play can help children with sensory processing disorders or delays by providing a safe and controlled environment to explore and regulate their sensory input.^[5]

💡 Try This Sensory Activity

Mix flour, salt, and water to make homemade playdough. Add essential oils for a calming scent. Let your child knead and shape it, encouraging them to describe the texture and color.

“When my daughter turned two, I realized that the best way to teach her wasn’t through flashcards or worksheets—it was through play.”— PlayMessy editors

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Play Based Learning Through Nature

best play based learning — Best Play Based Learning (the finished result) — The Finished Result

Taking my daughter on nature walks has been one of the most rewarding play based learning experiences. We collect leaves, identify birds, and talk about the weather. These activities are not only educational but also help her develop a deep appreciation for the natural world.

According to a study by the University of Colorado Boulder, children who spend time in nature have better concentration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Nature provides a dynamic and ever-changing environment that challenges children to think, observe, and adapt.

One of my favorite activities is making a nature scavenger hunt. I create a list of items to find, like a pinecone, a feather, and a rock, and let my daughter explore the backyard. This game develops observation skills and encourages physical activity.

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Play Based Learning at Home vs. in a Classroom

In the classroom, play based learning is often structured and limited by curriculum goals. While this has its benefits, it doesn’t always allow for the kind of deep, unstructured exploration that happens at home.

At home, we can tailor activities to our child’s interests and developmental stage. For example, if my daughter is fascinated by animals, we can spend an entire day exploring books, visiting a zoo, or even making animal masks. This kind of personalized play leads to more meaningful learning.

Another advantage of play based learning at home is the emotional connection. When parents are involved in the learning process, it creates a sense of security and trust. This makes children more confident and more willing to take risks, ask questions, and explore new ideas.

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

⭐ Classic

The basic playdough recipe with flour, salt, and dish soap for a simple sensory experience.

💰 Budget

A version that uses fewer ingredients and more household items, such as cornstarch instead of flour.

⚡ Extra-Fast

A quicker method that skips kneading and focuses on mixing the ingredients quickly for immediate use.

✨ Depth

Adds essential oils for a calming scent and increases the sensory experience by adding texture and smell.

🥗 Light

A lighter and less messy version using cornstarch and fewer ingredients, ideal for younger children.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

What age is play based learning suitable for?

Play based learning is suitable for children of all ages, from infants to teenagers, as it can be adapted to their developmental stage and interests.

How can I incorporate play based learning into a busy schedule?

Start with short, focused play sessions. Even 10 minutes a day of meaningful play can make a difference and be easily integrated into your routine.

Do I need any special materials or equipment?

No, most play based learning activities can be done with common household items. Get creative with what you have on hand.

How do I know if my child is learning through play?

Observe their engagement, curiosity, and problem-solving skills. If they’re asking questions, trying new things, and showing persistence, they’re learning through play.

Is play based learning as effective as traditional teaching methods?

Yes, and in many ways, it's more effective because it's child-led, engaging, and naturally integrates learning with play.

Can play based learning help with academic skills?

Absolutely. Play based learning supports academic skills like counting, reading, writing, and science through hands-on, interactive experiences.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Over-directing the play session.	This can make the child feel pressured and reduce their natural curiosity and engagement.	Allow the child to lead the play and ask open-ended questions instead of giving instructions.
Using too many materials or distractions.	This can overwhelm the child and prevent them from focusing on the learning experience.	Limit the number of materials to a few at a time and introduce new ones gradually.
Not being present or involved.	Without parental presence, the learning opportunities are missed, and the child may not feel supported.	Be actively involved, observe, and interact with your child during play to enhance the learning experience.
Ignoring the child’s interests or preferences.	This can lead to disengagement and reduce the effectiveness of the play based learning experience.	Follow your child’s interests and tailor the play activities to their preferences and developmental stage.

🧸 Homemade Playmessy Editorial Teamdough

Servings:

Diet:

The recipe as written.

What You'll Need tap to check off

1 lb flour
½ cup salt
water to taste
2 tablespoons liquid dish soap
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 tablespoon white vinegar

Method tap a step when done

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking soda.
Add the liquid dish soap and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly.
Gradually add water, a little at a time, until the dough comes together and is no longer crumbly.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Divide the dough into small portions and add a few drops of food coloring to each if desired.
Store the playdough in an airtight container or plastic bag for future use.

Key Facts

510

Calories

32g

Protein

28g

Carbs

26g

Fat

Fiber

680mg

Sodium

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