Play is the work of childhood, and it serves as a fundamental building block for the development of various skills, including social ones. Children learn best when they are engaged, excited, and having fun. We use play as a learning tactic in our Pleasant Hill preschool program. In age-appropriate ways, we help Bay Area preschoolers master the basics and “have fun.”

Play offers a natural and enjoyable way for kids to interact, experiment, and develop the essential abilities that enable them to connect with others effectively.

1. Communication Skills: Play allows children to practice using language, express their thoughts and feelings, and understand the nuances of conversation. Through role-play, storytelling, and interactive games, children learn to communicate with others, express themselves, and listen actively.
2. Empathy: When children engage in imaginative play, they step into the shoes of different characters and explore different perspectives. This helps them develop empathy, as they begin to understand and relate to the emotions and experiences of others. This is so important in the Bay Area as we have kids from all walks of life and all ethnicities. We encourage our East Bay kids to start “empathy” early!
3. Cooperation and Teamwork: Many play activities, such as building with blocks, playing board games, or participating in group sports, require cooperation and teamwork. Children learn to work together, share, and negotiate to achieve common goals.
4. Problem-Solving: Play often involves overcoming obstacles and challenges. As children engage in problem-solving during play, they learn to think critically, make decisions, and adapt to changing situations.

Play-based learning is a powerful tool for fostering social skills in children. It provides a natural and enjoyable way for kids to develop crucial abilities like communication, empathy, cooperation, and problem-solving. Parents and educators can play a significant role in nurturing these skills by creating play-friendly environments, participating in playtime, and encouraging imaginative play. By prioritizing play-based learning, we can help children build strong foundations for social success, ensuring they grow into confident, empathetic, and socially adept individuals.

If you live in or near Pleasant Hill, please reach out to our preschool program. Schedule a school tour, or talk with an advisor. Parents from Pleasant Hill, Walnut Creek, Orinda and other East Bay communities that live or work near our preschool find us a best-in-class option for their early education needs!