Learning Through Play – A monthly parenting & early childhood development column
By Kelly McDonald & Paula Kelly
February 2026
How Play Is Already Doing the Work
If you’ve ever watched your child play and wondered, “Is this actually doing anything?” — you’re not alone.
From the outside, play can look simple. Sometimes messy. Sometimes loud. Sometimes repetitive.
But behind the scenes, something pretty incredible is happening.
Play is how children learn.
When children play, they aren’t just passing time or “burning energy.” They’re building skills that support learning, relationships, and emotional growth — often without even realizing it.
Let’s take a closer look at what’s really going on during everyday play.
Blocks Aren’t Just Blocks
When your child stacks blocks (and knocks them down again…and again), they’re working on problem-solving, hand strength, coordination, and persistence. They’re learning cause and effect. They’re practicing patience. That tower is doing more than you think.
Pretend Play Builds Real Skills
Playing “store,” “school,” or “family” helps children practice communication, social roles, and flexible thinking. Pretend play gives children a safe way to explore emotions, try out ideas, and make sense of the world around them.
Movement Supports the Brain
Running, jumping, climbing, and spinning aren’t just ways to get wiggles out. Movement helps regulate the nervous system, supports focus, and builds body awareness. Many children need movement before they can sit, listen, or concentrate.
Big Feelings Count, Too
Even play that ends in frustration or big emotions is valuable. Learning how to wait, lose a game, share materials, or recover from disappointment helps children build emotional regulation skills — with your support along the way.
Here’s the important part:
Play doesn’t need to look perfect to be meaningful.
You don’t need a lesson plan. You don’t need fancy materials. And you don’t need to guide every moment. Children learn best when play feels joyful, safe, and connected — especially when a caring adult is nearby.
Over the coming months, we’ll continue to break down how different types of play support development and how small, simple shifts can make play even more powerful.
For now, know this:
If your child is playing, learning is already happening.
About the Authors
Kelly McDonald and Paula Kelly are the founders and owners of FUNdamentals, an educational play center located in East Providence, RI. Kelly is an occupational therapist, and Paula is a special educator, each with over 20 years of experience supporting children and families. As professionals and mothers, they are passionate about creating engaging, relationship-driven experiences that help children build confidence, skills, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
Do you have a topic you would like to see Kelly & Paula cover? If so, let us know by emailing Info@EastProvHospitality.com with “Learning Through Play” in the subject line.
