Play is not only a relief from learning in early childhood education, it is the means by which children learn. Children learn key skills through play that are important to their thinking, communication and understanding of the people and world around them.
We take a structured play-based approach at Orange Tree Children’s Nursery in Muscat, Oman, to nurturing children’s curiosity, creativity and confidence from an early age, and ensuring they develop in a holistic way.
What is Play Based Learning?
Play-based learning is an educational strategy that involves children in learning activities designed to guide their play. Children are not taught by rote but are actively exploring, experimenting and interacting with their environment.
This method can assist children:
- Make sure to develop critical thinking skills.
- Increase creativity and imagination
- Build social confidence
- Strengthen emotional understanding
Children’s learning is more meaningful because they are involved in their own discovery process.
Why play is crucial to early learning and development
Children use play as a natural method of meaning making. It helps them to share thoughts, push limits, and find solutions without the risk of harm.
Children learn naturally through play:
- Cognitive skills (thinking and reasoning)
- Social skills (sharing and cooperation)
- Emotional skills (understanding feelings)
- Physical skills (movement and co-ordination)
These basic skills are essential for success in school and life.
Structured Play at Orange Tree Children’s Nursery
Play at Orange Tree Children’s Nursery is not haphazard, but planned and directed by the nursery staff to provide specific learning opportunities.
Children participate in activities that promote:
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Early literacy and numeracy skills
- A child’s ability to develop language and communicate
- Teamwork and collaboration
Activities are well planned and children learn a lot and are enjoying themselves.
Developing confidence through exploration
Children’s confidence increases when they are left to explore. Children are able to try things without fear of failure when learning through play.
This assists them in developing:
- Independence and self-confidence
- Resilience in new situations
- Interest and desire to learn
- Positive self-expression
Self-assured children are more likely to be actively involved in learning in all aspects of their lives.
Social Skills through group play
Children learn to play and interact positively and with respect in group activities.
Children are taught how to:
- Share and take turn to share
- Communicate ideas clearly
- Resolve simple conflicts
- Work as part of a team
These experiences help children to be ready for school and for life.
Creativity and Imagination Development
Children are given freedom of imagination in play. Children learn to think beyond boundaries, either through storytelling, role play or creative activities.
This strengthens:
- Creative thinking
- Problem-solving abilities
- Expression of ideas and emotions
- Innovation and curiosity
Creativity is an important skill to have for future school and life success.
A Safe Environment for Meaningful Play
Play-based learning requires a safe and supportive learning environment. Children feel secure, valued and encouraged in all activities at Orange Tree Children’s Nursery.
Our environment promotes:
- Safety and supervision
- Emotional security
- Positive teacher-child relationships
- Attractive and child-friendly environments
This enables children to freely and confidently explore.
Supporting children to be ready to learn throughout their lives
Play-based learning is not just about getting children ready for school, it is about getting them ready for life. It establishes a solid base of skills which facilitate lifelong learning and development.
Children practice:
- Lifelong curiosity
- Strong communication skills
- Emotional intelligence
- Self-assurance in acquiring new skills
These are the traits that are crucial for future academic and personal success.
Why Choose Orange Tree Children’s Nursery in Muscat?
Parents make their choice of nursery because we offer a well-rounded, interesting and research based approach to early childhood education.
Our strengths include:
- Our strengths include:
- Structured play-based curriculum
- Safe and nurturing environment
- Take a whole-child approach to development.
- Early years educators who have a wealth of experience.
- Strong parent partnership
- HEI Schools Powered Curriculum approach
Contact Orange Tree Children’s Nursery
If you’re looking for a nurturing and engaging nursery in Muscat, we’d to hear from you. Whether you have questions about our programmes, admissions, or would like to arrange a visit, our friendly team is here to help.
Phone: +968 9820 2207
Email: info@orangetreenursery.com
Location: Muscat, Oman
Get in touch today and discover how Orange Tree Children’s Nursery can support your child’s early learning journey.
