Play is the cornerstone of child development. It is how young children take in and process the world around them. Through play, children work out problems and seek solutions. Play is child/ren led and focused. It is uninhibited by adults, it is joyful, and it is rich in imagination. Children develop early literacy through play, applying oral language experiences, narration, and language acquisition. Play enables a positive self-view and increases social interactions and group dynamics. Play promotes the skills children need to learn how to negotiate, discuss, compromise, and stand their ground. Play enhances cognitive development, manipulation, reasoning, and prediction, all crucial for mathematical competency now, as an early learner, and in the future.

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At Nurtured by Nature, children will have several hours of free play daily, using branches, rocks, sticks, logs, trees, dirt, bark, or whatever other natural item calls to them. These natural gifts provide endless possibilities for free and imaginative play.

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We also understand that guided or structured play (typically more teacher-led activities) is also important for the balanced growth and development of the children. Intermixed between free play times, students will have a daily opportunity to participate in large group games or activities as well as a structured activity that is more grounded and teacher-led.

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So, if you wonder what we do all day, yes, we "just" play.

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