A resource that explores why play matters in early childhood, with many early childhood professionals championing the power of play for children aged 0-8 years — with links to videos, podcasts and more
Play in reception Classes: ‘It ain’t what you do it’s the way that you do it’
Blog by Viki Veale exploring how we strike a balance between teaching and learning in Reception classes and beyond
Play-based learning and continuous provision toolkit
A toolkit from the Chartered College of Teaching, with links to case studies, audit tool, research and podcasts all about play
Play-based learning and continuous provision toolkit
A toolkit from the Chartered College of Teaching, with links to case studies, audit tool, research and podcasts all about play
The importance of play-based learning beyond EYFS
Research Review which explores some of the benefits of play-based learning for children beyond EYFS and how teachers can overcome barriers to implementing a play-based approach in their classrooms, Crittenden, J. and Gray, J. (2026)
The Play Commission has gathered written and oral evidence, conducted national and international visits, and engaged with children, parents, and professionals to investigate the benefits of play, what is stopping so many children from accessing it, and what can be done to turn the tide
How the reception Year can be more inclusive for children with SEND
An article by Katherine Gulliver exploring how play-based relational pedagogy is at the heart of inclusive practice in Reception and beyond
Can guidance during play enhance children’s learning and development in educational contexts? A systematic review and
meta-analysis
Meta study finding guided play more effective
than free play for maths learning
Study identifying factors supporting metacognition include warm relationship with adult, choice and cognitive challenge