Why Should parents encourage open-ended play?

In a world full of structured activities, pre-set games, and digital distractions, it’s easy to overlook the quiet power of open-ended play. But here's the truth: when children are given the freedom to play without instructions or outcomes, they’re not just "passing time, they're actively building the skills they'll need for life.Open-ended play, by definition, has no set rules, goals, or right answers. It invites children to use their imagination, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Whether it’s building a city out of cardboard boxes or pretending a stick is a magic wand, this kind of play nurtures deeper learning than we often realise.
It fosters creativity and critical thinking
When children engage in open-ended play, they’re inventing worlds, scenarios, and solutions. There’s no "correct" way to play, so their minds are free to explore endless possibilities.
A key study by Russ and Dillon (2011), published in Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts, found that imaginative play in early childhood strongly correlates with later creativity and problem-solving ability.Whether it’s building a fort or inventing a role play story, open-ended play lets children think outside the box, literally and figuratively.
It supports emotional and social development
When children play freely with others, they learn to negotiate roles, manage emotions, and resolve conflict. These are the early seeds of emotional intelligence and social awareness.
The Harvard Center on the Developing Child (2016) highlights play as essential for developing "executive function", the mental skills we use to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, and manage multiple tasks.“Through open-ended play, children practise self-regulation, empathy, and the give and take needed for healthy relationships.”Harvard University (2016)Unstructured group play, especially without adult interference, encourages children to build real-life social skills through trial and error.
It builds independence and resilience
When a child isn’t told what to do or how to do it, they’re encouraged to trust their instincts. Open-ended play invites them to take the lead, explore mistakes, and try again.This kind of self guided play nurtures a mindset known as “internal motivation.” According to Dr. Peter Gray (2013), a renowned researcher in developmental and evolutionary psychology:“Children learn to take initiative and responsibility through free, self directed play.” Gray, P. (2013), Free to Learn. It also builds resilience. If the tower falls or the cardboard spaceship doesn’t fly, they figure out how to rebuild or adapt, no adult rescue required.
It enhances language and communication skills
As children narrate their play. This is the shop, and I’m the baker”, they’re naturally developing storytelling skills, descriptive vocabulary, and expressive language.The UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework promotes open-ended role play and small world scenarios as key opportunities for children to develop communication and language skills.“Open-ended environments allow children to develop rich language and social interaction.” EYFS Framework (2021). Especially when playing with peers, children learn to explain their ideas, ask questions, and respond thoughtfully, essential foundations for reading and conversation later on.

It encourages lifelong learning
Perhaps most importantly, open-ended play helps children enjoy learning. There are no tests, no grades, and no pressure to "perform." Just pure discovery. This joyful curiosity lays the foundation for what psychologists call a growth mindset, the belief that effort leads to improvement. Children who engage in open-ended play are more likely to embrace challenges and persist in problem-solving as they grow.

Final thought: Let them lead the play
As adults, we’re often tempted to jump in, offer suggestions, or “correct” a child’s play. But sometimes, the best thing we can do is step back and let them explore.Open-ended play is where confidence, creativity, and character are born. So give them the space, the tools, and the time, and watch what unfolds when imagination takes the lead.

Explore our collection at EduQuest PLAY!
Follow us for more insights and educational resources:
YouTube: EduQuest PLAY TikTok: EduQuest PLAY

How arts and crafts improve early childhood learning

When we think of arts and crafts, it’s easy to picture glittery chaos and colourful messes. But behind those painted hands and glue-stained tables is something profound learning in action.Arts and crafts are more than a creative outlet. They’re essential tools that build fine motor skills, boost brain development, and nurture emotional intelligence. For young children especially, the benefits go well beyond the canvas.Let’s explore why encouraging creativity with scissors, paint, and glue is one of the smartest moves for early childhood development.Fine motor skills: Building strong hands and focused minds
Cutting with safety scissors, colouring within lines, and squeezing glue bottles all strengthen small muscle groups in a child’s hands and fingers. These aren’t just fun activities, they’re building the dexterity children need for tasks like writing and buttoning clothes.The National Child Measurement Programme (UK, 2020) notes that children entering school with underdeveloped fine motor skills often struggle academically, not due to intellect, but due to limited hand strength and coordination.Regular arts and crafts activities give children daily opportunities to build these critical skills through fun and focused play.

Brain development: Creativity boosts cognitive growth
Arts and crafts naturally support problem solving, decision making, and spatial awareness. Whether it’s deciding what colour to paint a tree or how to build a paper rocket, children are constantly engaging both sides of their brain.A comprehensive longitudinal study by Catterall et al. (1999) found that students involved in the arts performed better across a range of academic subjects and developed stronger cognitive flexibility.In other words, creativity isn’t just about making things, it’s about thinking differently.

Emotional expression: A safe space for big feelings
Children don’t always have the vocabulary to express their feelings, but give them a paintbrush and you might be surprised at what they reveal. Arts and crafts allow kids to process emotions in a non verbal, safe, and empowering way. A 2021 study published in Frontiers in psychology highlights how art activities significantly reduce stress in children and support emotional self regulation.Simply put, a drawing can be worth more than a thousand words, especially for a child who’s still learning how to use them.
Language and literacy: Talking through the process
When children describe what they're making."This is a house for my dragon!" they're building narrative skills, expanding vocabulary, and improving sentence structure.The Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework in the UK recognises expressive arts as a key component in communication and language development. As they engage in crafts, children naturally use sequencing ("first I glued this, then I coloured it"), reasoning, and imaginative storytelling, skills foundational to reading and writing.
Confidence and independence: Look what i made!
Nothing lights up a child’s face quite like showing off their masterpiece. Whether it’s a finger painted dinosaur or a beaded bracelet, the act of creating something unique fosters pride and self confidence.This sense of accomplishment also supports autonomy. According to Bandura’s theory of self efficacy, children who believe in their ability to create and solve problems are more likely to take on new challenges and stick with them. Arts and crafts encourage that belief by giving children ownership over the process and the result.
Final Thought: Learning through creation
Arts and crafts are not a break from learning,they are learning. They engage the hands, the heart, and the head all at once. Whether a child is cutting, gluing, painting, or sculpting, they’re building skills that will serve them in school and in life. So next time your child is elbow deep in crayons and cardboard, remember: they’re not just making a mess. They’re making meaning.

Explore our collection at EduQuest PLAY!
Follow us for more insights and educational resources:
YouTube: EduQuest PLAY TikTok: EduQuest PLAY

Simple indoor activities to keep kids busy while learning and playing

Keeping children engaged indoors without leaning too heavily on screens can be tricky. But what if we told you some of the best learning happens when kids are simply having fun, solving puzzles, telling stories, or conducting little science experiments in the kitchen?These aren’t just enjoyable ways to pass the time; they’re powerful educational tools. Backed by research, these playful activities enhance brain development, creativity, emotional intelligence, and academic skills, all from the comfort of home.

Solving puzzles: A Strong foundation for learning

There’s a reason solving puzzles are a staple in early years education. They develop spatial awareness, logical thinking, and early math skills. A long-term study by Wolfgang, Stannard, and Jones (2001) revealed that children who frequently played with puzzles in preschool performed significantly better on standardised maths tests later in life. 

Painting: expression meets brain development

When a child paints, they’re not just creating, they’re learning. Painting supports fine motor development, visual analysis, and self-expression.According to Catterall (2009), children who regularly engage in the arts perform better in school and are more likely to be recognised for academic and social achievement.Letting children paint freely fosters creativity and gives them a safe outlet for expressing emotions.

Storytelling: Fuel for language and imagination

Storytelling whether it’s reading books or making up stories together, builds vocabulary, comprehension, and communication skills. It also strengthens emotional intelligence by helping children understand perspectives and feelings.The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends reading aloud from infancy, citing its role in boosting brain development and long term literacy.“Reading aloud is one of the most effective ways to build the knowledge required for eventual reading success.” High, P.C. et al. (2014) Encouraging kids to tell their own stories also nurtures imagination and logical sequencing.

DIY science experiments: Little minds, big discoveries
Hands-on science at home can be both fun and foundational. Activities like mixing baking soda with vinegar or observing what sinks and floats introduce basic scientific thinking.The National Science Foundation (2015) found that early engagement with science based activities significantly shapes children’s interest and success in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics).DIY experiments also help children learn patience, curiosity, and critical observation.
Wooden Toys: Simple tools for deep learning
Educational wooden toys, like puzzles, counting boards, and shape sorters, may seem traditional, but their impact is powerful. Without flashy lights or sounds, these toys encourage focus, imagination, and problem solving.Research by Sobel et al. (2018) at the University of Virginia found that children playing with open ended toys like wooden blocks displayed longer attention spans and deeper cognitive engagement than those using electronic toys.“Children using traditional toys exhibited more sustained play and higher levels of creativity.”Sobel, D.M. et al. (2018). Less noise, more thinking.

Final thought
As adults, it’s easy to separate "play" from "learning." But for children, they are one and the same. Whether your child is building a tower, telling a dragon story, or mixing colours, they’re developing real world skills that shape how they think, feel, and grow.So next time you're stuck indoors, remember: a little mess, a lot of laughter, and the right kind of play can go a long way in raising bright, curious minds.

Explore our collection at EduQuest PLAY!
Follow us for more insights and educational resources:
YouTube: EduQuest PLAY TikTok: EduQuest PLAY

How can parents teach toddlers patience & focus

In a fast paced world saturated with screens and distractions, helping toddlers develop patience and focus is more than a parenting goal, it’s a vital life skill. While toddlers are naturally impulsive and energetic, science shows that with the right guidance, these young minds can be taught to wait, concentrate, and build the early foundations of self-regulation.

Understanding patience and focus in early childhood

Toddlers are in a critical developmental window where the brain is rapidly growing, especially in areas responsible for attention and impulse control. The prefrontal cortex responsible for executive functions like focus and self control is still developing, and it’s through everyday interactions that this development is shaped.

Dr Adele Diamond (2013), a world leading neuroscientist in child development, explains that executive functions can be improved even in very young children through structured play, parental interaction, and mindfulness techniques (Diamond, A., "Executive functions", annual review of psychology, 64:135-168).

Practical ways to nurture patience and focus
Let’s look at some strategies rooted in evidence and real-world success:
Modelling calm behaviour
Children mirror the adults around them. When parents demonstrate calmness and delayed gratification, toddlers begin to internalise this behaviour. According to Bandura’s social learning theory (1977), observational learning plays a huge role in shaping children’s behaviour, especially in early years.
Using the "wait and stretch" method
This involves gradually increasing the time a toddler waits for something they want. For example, when they ask for a snack, respond warmly but slowly, saying, “Let’s count to five before we get it.” Over time, increase the delay. This teaches them that waiting leads to a reward, a crucial concept in patience.
A landmark longitudinal study by Walter Mischel known as the marshmallow test (1972) found that children who could delay gratification performed better in academic and social outcomes years later.
Incorporating mindfulness play
Research shows that even simple mindfulness exercises can significantly improve attention spans in preschoolers. Games like “Statue” (where the child freezes like a statue when music stops) or “Listening walks” help children practice in a fun, low-pressure way. Zelazo, P. D., & Lyons, K. E. (2012). “The potential benefits of mindfulness training in early childhood: A developmental social cognitive neuroscience perspective.” Child Development Perspectives, 6(2), 154-160.

Reading together
Shared book reading not only builds language skills but also improves attention span. Choose stories with a calm pace, gentle rhythm, and engaging visuals. Ask questions like, “What do you think happens next?” This keeps their focus locked in while subtly teaching them to follow a narrative arc. Bus, A. G., Van IJzendoorn, M. H., & Pellegrini, A. D. (1995). “Joint book reading makes for success in learning to read: A meta analysis on intergenerational transmission of literacy.” Review of educational research, 65(1), 1-21.
Celebrating small wins
Toddlers respond powerfully to praise. When they wait patiently or stay focused even for a short time, acknowledge it enthusiastically. Say, “You did a great job waiting!” This kind of positive reinforcement helps reinforce desirable behaviour, as proven by behavioural psychology. Skinner, B.F. (1953). Science and human behaviour. New York: Macmillan.

The long term benefits
Teaching patience and focus early helps build strong emotional intelligence, academic performance, and even healthier relationships later in life. According to a 2011 OECD report, self-regulation skills in early childhood are more predictive of adult success than IQ.
Final thoughts
While toddlers won't master patience and focus overnight, consistent nurturing and engagement from parents can set powerful roots. The key is to make learning fun, relational, and rhythmical. As a parent, your presence, attention, and calm consistency are the greatest tools you have. After all, the seeds you plant today will shape not just the toddler, but the future adult they become.

Explore our collection at EduQuest PLAY!
Follow us for more insights and educational resources:
YouTube: EduQuest PLAY TikTok: EduQuest PLAY

How pretend play shapes childhood development

What you need to know

Pretend play, or imaginative play, is often seen as a natural part of childhood development. It involves children engaging in scenarios that mimic real life situations, often by using objects symbolically. For instance, a child might use a banana as a phone or pretend to be a doctor treating their stuffed animal. These playful scenarios, though seemingly simple, have profound implications for a child’s language development.

Enhancing vocabulary through role play
One of the primary benefits of pretend play is its ability to encourage vocabulary expansion. As children act out various roles, they encounter new words that they may not typically use in everyday conversation. This exposure is essential for enriching their vocabulary.A landmark study by McCune-Nicolich (1992) explored the relationship between pretend play and language skills in young children. The study demonstrated that children who engaged more frequently in pretend play had larger vocabularies compared to those who didn’t. The process of enacting scenarios gives children the opportunity to use words in different contexts, which can solidify their understanding and usage of new terms. 

Fostering Communication skills
Pretend play also promotes the development of communication skills, particularly in terms of both expressive and receptive language. During pretend play, children practice taking on different perspectives, negotiating roles, and following social conventions. These interactions often require the use of complex language structures and more sophisticated vocabulary, which can significantly boost communication proficiency.A comprehensive study conducted by Lillard et al. (2013) provides valuable insight into how pretend play supports the development of social and communicative abilities. Their research suggests that pretend play nurtures not just vocabulary but also the ability to engage in complex conversations and interpret social cues. In their study, children who were more involved in pretend play were observed to have better social skills, including the ability to understand others' emotions and intentions.

Storytelling and narrative skills
Pretend play also lays the foundation for developing storytelling and narrative skills. As children role play, they create stories, sequence events, and make sense of the world around them. These activities help them grasp the structure of storytelling, which is critical for later success in reading and writing.
Research by Nicolopoulou (2010) underscores the importance of pretend play in narrative development. In her study, she found that children who engaged in pretend play were better able to create coherent stories and structure events in a logical sequence. This ability to weave together a narrative is crucial not only for academic success but also for social interactions, as stories are a common medium through which humans communicate their experiences.
Cognitive and social development through play
Moreover, pretend play supports cognitive development, particularly in areas such as problem solving, creativity, and executive functioning. Children learn to adapt to new situations, think critically, and make decisions within their pretend scenarios, which can transfer to real life contexts.
According to Bergen (2002), imaginative play fosters creativity and cognitive flexibility, essential skills that later enhance a child's ability to handle complex tasks and challenges. Furthermore, because pretend play often involves multiple children, it provides opportunities for collaboration, sharing, and negotiation, which are key components of social development.
Conclusion
The research is clear: pretend play is not merely a fun pastime but a critical activity that shapes language development in profound ways. By encouraging children to engage in imaginative play, parents, educators, and caregivers can help foster vocabulary growth, improve communication skills, and enhance storytelling abilities. Given its multifaceted impact on cognitive and social development, pretend play should be viewed as an essential component of early childhood education.
Investing time in play based learning not only nurtures linguistic skills but also supports broader cognitive and social competencies that will serve children throughout their lives. So, the next time you see a child pretending to cook dinner or pilot a spaceship, remember they are learning, growing, and developing essential life skills through their play.

Explore our collection at EduQuest PLAY!
Follow us for more insights and educational resources:
YouTube: EduQuest PLAY TikTok: EduQuest PLAY

How parents can encourage early literacy skills in young children

 Introduction 

Early literacy skills are essential for a child’s academic success and future cognitive development. Research shows that parental involvement is one of the most effective ways to support the development of these skills. This blog post outlines evidence based strategies that parents can use to encourage early literacy in their young children, backed by recent studies.

Reading aloud to children
One of the most effective ways parents can foster early literacy is by reading aloud to their children. Studies continue to confirm that early exposure to books is linked to higher vocabulary skills and greater reading comprehension later on. A study by Flouri and Buchanan (2004) found that children who were read to regularly developed stronger cognitive abilities. More recently, a study by Tracy L. Cross (2018) highlights that the act of reading aloud not only strengthens vocabulary but also supports listening skills and comprehension.

Sénéchal et al. (2017) further emphasize that shared reading experiences provide opportunities for children to engage with language in a meaningful context, helping them build essential pre-literacy skills, such as phonological awareness and print knowledge.

Engaging in meaningful conversations
It’s crucial for children to engage in frequent and meaningful conversations with their parents. A study by Rowe (2012) showed that children who had more conversational exchanges with their parents tended to have stronger language skills. The research showed that the frequency and complexity of parental speech directly influenced children's vocabulary growth and sentence structure understanding.Engaging in two way dialogues helps children grasp how language works in real life situations. Asking open ended questions and encouraging children to express themselves builds their verbal and cognitive abilities.
Encouraging phonemic awareness
Phonemic awareness, the ability to recognize and manipulate the individual sounds in words, is a key predictor of future reading success. A 2011 study by Schuele and Boudreau confirmed that children with better phonemic awareness skills were more likely to become proficient readers. Parents can help develop this awareness by engaging in simple activities like rhyming games, clapping out syllables, and asking children to identify the first sound of a word.
A 2017 study by Bishop and Snowling showed that early training in phonemic awareness significantly boosted children’s ability to decode words when they began formal schooling.

Promoting print awareness
Print awareness is another fundamental skill that contributes to early literacy. Children who understand that writing carries meaning are better equipped to become successful readers. Research by Kaderavek and Justice (2010) found that print exposure in the home environment, such as having books, magazines, or even labels around the house, was correlated with higher literacy skills in children.
To help children develop print awareness, parents can label objects around the home and read out the labels with their child. This helps children understand that words have a tangible, meaningful presence in their world.
Creating a literacy-rich environment
Providing a literacy-rich environment goes beyond just having books in the house. The National Early Literacy Panel (2011) found that children exposed to a variety of written materials, including books, environmental print (such as signs and labels), and digital texts, are more likely to become strong readers.A study by Sénéchal and Lefebvre (2012) reinforces this idea, showing that children who had access to a wide range of print materials in their early years developed better literacy skills as they entered formal education. Parents can further enhance a literacy-rich environment by encouraging writing and storytelling activities. For instance, writing grocery lists, keeping a journal, or composing simple letters can help children understand the connection between writing and meaning.
Fostering independent reading habits
As children grow older, encouraging independent reading is key to their literacy development. According to Guthrie et al. (2013), children who read independently tend to perform better on literacy assessments, as independent reading allows them to practice decoding, vocabulary acquisition, and comprehension.
Sullivan and Brown (2015) also found that children who choose their own books and engage in regular independent reading show higher motivation to read, which in turn supports overall literacy growth. Parents should provide a variety of reading materials, give children the freedom to choose their books, and celebrate their reading accomplishments.
Conclusion
Research consistently underscores the significant role parents play in fostering early literacy skills. By reading aloud, engaging in meaningful conversations, promoting phonemic and print awareness, creating a literacy rich environment, and encouraging independent reading, parents can help their children develop the skills they need to succeed academically. The combination of these strategies, supported by recent evidence, lays a strong foundation for lifelong literacy.

Explore our collection at EduQuest PLAY!
Follow us for more insights and educational resources:
YouTube: EduQuest PLAY TikTok: EduQuest PLAY

What are the most effective ways to teach toddlers a second language?

Introducing

A second language to toddlers can be a rewarding yet challenging endeavour. The early years of life are crucial for cognitive development, and research consistently shows that toddlers are incredibly adept at learning new languages. However, to make the most of this window of opportunity, it's essential to employ effective methods and strategies.

Create a language rich environment
One of the most well established ways to teach toddlers a second language is to immerse them in a language-rich environment. Studies have shown that exposure to a language in context, where children can hear it regularly, helps build strong foundations. For instance, a study conducted by Kovács and Mehler (2009) suggests that bilingual exposure from an early age helps toddlers to better distinguish between different languages and enhances cognitive flexibility (Kovács & Mehler, 2009).

How to Implement this:
Playdates and Interaction: Arrange playdates with children who speak the second language or hire a tutor. Language acquisition thrives in social contexts where interaction is frequent.

Labeling Objects: Use labels for everyday objects in both languages around the house.

Consistency and routine
The consistency of language exposure is critical for toddlers. Research indicates that the more frequently a child is exposed to a second language, the more proficient they will become. A longitudinal study by Byers-Heinlein et al. (2010) on bilingualism in young children highlighted that toddlers who were consistently exposed to both languages showed better language development than those who were exposed inconsistently (Byers-Heinlein, Burns & Werker, 2010).
How to implement this:
Routine Integration: Use the second language during specific times of the day or for certain activities. For example, only speak the second language during mealtimes or play.
Simple Phrases and Songs: Consistently using simple phrases, rhymes, or songs in the second language reinforces natural learning.

Play-based learning
Toddlers learn best when they are engaged and having fun. Play-based learning, where language is integrated into games, songs, and stories, helps keep toddlers motivated and makes language acquisition feel natural. Weizman and Snow (2001) found that children learn vocabulary and language structure best when it is embedded in playful contexts, as play helps to make the learning process enjoyable and less formal (Weizman & Snow, 2001).
How to implement this:
Interactive Games: Play language-based games that involve actions and words, like "Simon Says" or "I Spy."Bilingual Books and Storytelling: Read bilingual books or tell simple stories in both languages, encouraging the child to participate.

Be patient and avoid pressure
One key to successfully teaching a second language is ensuring that toddlers do not feel pressured or overwhelmed. The idea of 'language mixing  where a child uses both languages in the same sentence is a natural part of bilingual development and should not be discouraged. According to Paradis (2011), children who are learning multiple languages may initially mix them, but this does not indicate confusion. It is a part of the process, and by creating a relaxed environment, the child can gradually separate the languages as they grow older (Paradis, 2011).

How to implement this:
Positive Reinforcement: Celebrate small milestones, such as using a word correctly in either language, to build confidence.Avoid Correction: Instead of correcting language mixing, model the correct use of each language in context.

Early exposure to both languages
The earlier a toddler is exposed to a second language, the more likely they are to acquire it naturally. Hoff (2013), in her comprehensive review of language development, concludes that early exposure to multiple languages not only enhances language skills but also improves cognitive abilities such as problem-solving and multitasking (Hoff, 2013).
How to implement this:
Start Early: Ideally, introduce a second language in infancy or as early as possible to maximise the child’s ability to absorb it.
Natural Integration: Expose them to the language in day-to-day situations, like during grocery shopping, playing.

Conclusion

Teaching toddlers a second language is a journey that requires time, patience, and consistency. Research has shown that immersion in a language-rich environment, routine exposure, play-based learning, and positive reinforcement are some of the most effective strategies. Importantly, it’s essential to make the process enjoyable for the child, avoiding any pressure that could lead to frustration or reluctance.

Incorporating these strategies will not only help your toddler learn a second language but will also give them a valuable skill that will benefit them throughout their lives. By using a playful, consistent, and stress-free approach, you can help your child become a confident bilingual, ready to embrace the world of language and culture.

Explore our collection at EduQuest PLAY!
Follow us for more insights and educational resources:
YouTube: EduQuest PLAY        TikTok: EduQuest PLAY