Play-based learning takes centre stage in early childhood development
In conversation with Aakanksha N Bhardwaj, Jagriti Sharma, Pre-Primary In-charge at Apeejay School Mahavir Marg, discusses the importance of the foundational years (birth to 8 years) in shaping a child’s core skills.
Early childhood education, particularly from birth to 8 years, is more than just a phase of play and growth—it is a critical period for cognitive, social, emotional and physical development.
According to experts and modern educational policies, such as NEP 2020 and the National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2022, this stage is considered the foundation of a child’s lifelong learning journey.
Play-based learning is increasingly being recognised as one of the most effective methods for fostering early development.
The early years of a child’s life are critical, with over 85 per cent of brain development happening by age six. During this period, children acquire skills that form the basis for their academic and personal lives.
In these formative years, children develop key skills in cognitive development, language, emotional intelligence and social interaction. Cognitive skills such as problem-solving and reasoning lay the groundwork for future academic pursuits.
Language skills—built through storytelling, singing, and conversations—are developed rapidly during this stage, contributing to strong communication abilities. Additionally, early childhood is the time when children learn to identify and express emotions, build relationships and develop empathy, all of which are vital for personal and professional life.
India’s NEP 2020 has brought early childhood care and education (ECCE) to the forefront. The policy introduces a new 5+3+3+4 curricular structure, emphasising play-based, activity-oriented learning during the foundational stage, from ages 3 to 8.
One of its primary focuses is foundational literacy and numeracy (FLN), ensuring that every child attains essential skills in reading, writing, and arithmetic by Grade 3.
Moreover, NEP 2020 advocates for mother tongue or local language as the medium of instruction in the early years, fostering better comprehension and a holistic approach to learning that integrates cognitive, emotional, and physical development.
I’ve often noticed that children express themselves more freely and confidently when they are encouraged to speak in their mother tongue. It builds a sense of comfort and belonging that is essential for learning to truly take root.
The NCF 2022 aligns with the NEP’s vision, outlining a roadmap for early learning that stresses the importance of joyful, play-based experiences. In these classrooms, stories, music, games and art are central to the learning process. The NCF promotes an interactive approach where children are encouraged to touch, see, hear, and explore their environment as they learn new concepts. Activities are crafted to follow the natural pace of development for children at various stages.
In my experience, the classrooms that embrace stories, dance, and play are the ones where children blossom most naturally. When learning is joyous, the outcomes are not just measurable—they’re magical.
Behind every confident and curious child is a community of adults who believe in the power of early learning. Educators are not just instructors, but facilitators of wonder, while parents are not passive observers but active partners in their child’s growth. Simple, everyday activities like reading bedtime stories, encouraging open-ended questions, or allowing children to help with chores can significantly enhance cognitive and emotional development.
“Working with young parents, I often sense their anxiety about ‘doing it right.’ I always remind them that their involvement, presence, and love are the best beginnings a child can have. Start early, when minds are most open, hearts most trusting, and possibilities most limitless.”
The NEP and NCF advocate for a comprehensive approach to early childhood education, one that involves a partnership between families, educators, and communities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and grow in a supportive, nurturing environment.
Jalandhar