Play to Learn and Learn to Play

Course description

This engaging and practical course explores how young children learn and develop through play. You will discover how simple activities, including messy play and outdoor experiences, can support children’s physical, emotional and cognitive development.

Through hands-on participation, you will build confidence in creating playful learning opportunities and deepen your understanding of how nature, nurture and environment shape early development.

This is an experiential course, meaning you will learn by doing, reflecting and applying new ideas in real-life contexts.

Course content

• Understanding development

• Key stages of early childhood growth and learning

• The power of play

• How play supports development and builds essential skills

• Messy play and sensory learning

• Exploring materials and activities that stimulate curiosity and creativity

• Outdoor play and nature

• Benefits of outdoor environments for wellbeing and development

• Planning play Activities

• Creating simple, effective play experiences for children

• Reflection and application

• Applying learning to home, work or further study

What can this course lead to?

Upon completion, you could progress onto a further course, including:

• Level 2 Caring for Children

Visit the National Careers Service website for more information about careers available in this sector.

Course session dates