Play-based learning plays a crucial role in the formative years of a child’s life. At St. Andrews International School Sathorn, we recognise this fundamental truth and have developed a nursery programme that fosters curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every young mind.
The Role of Play in Development
At the core of our nursery philosophy lies the belief that play is essential for development. We do not confine ourselves to rigid academic instruction; instead, we create activities that encourage children to explore, interact, and learn in an organic manner. This approach aligns with our commitment to holistic education, where learning is perceived as an enjoyable experience rather than a chore. By instilling a sense of joy in learning, we ensure that children develop a lifelong love for education that transcends their nursery years.
By prioritising play-based education, St. Andrews International Nursery shapes young learners into adaptable individuals, honing their social, emotional, and intellectual skills—qualities that are vital for success in today’s world.
Understanding the Value of Play in Learning
Parents of nursery-aged children often believe that traditional educational methods are the most effective way to promote learning. However, this perspective overlooks that play is essential for a developing mind, and is in fact the way that children learn best.
Research indicates that play-based learning is not merely a form of recreation. A study conducted by a prominent toy company suggests that children who engage in block-building play are projected to outperform their peers in literacy and numeracy assessments by the age of seven. Specifically, these children are 80% more likely to excel in these areas due to their exposure to play-focused activities.
At St. Andrews Sathorn, we believe that early learning is most impactful when it incorporates play and exploration. This child-centred approach shifts the focus away from rigid achievement markers, honouring each child’s unique pace and interests.
A common misconception is that play equates to unproductiveness. In reality, play is instrumental in achieving developmental milestones. Activities that involve imaginative play, sensory exploration, and collaborative work are particularly beneficial. For parents, understanding this approach can alleviate concerns about immediate academic success and encourage a shift in focus towards nurturing curiosity and confidence in their children.
The Integration of Play-Based Learning in Our Nursery Curriculum
Despite being situated in the bustling heart of Bangkok, St. Andrews Sathorn adopts a comprehensive and globally respected British curriculum. One of the key elements of our nursery education is free-flow play.
Our educators value this approach as it allows flexibility within activities. Children enjoy the freedom to direct their own learning, which promotes autonomy and self-esteem. This freedom is essential for fostering a love of learning, as children feel empowered to make choices about their educational journey.
The British nursery curriculum encompasses seven core areas of development:
- Physical Development
- Communication and Language
- Personal, Social, and Emotional Development
- Mathematics
- Literacy
- Expressive Arts and Design
- Understanding the World
Play-based learning brings these areas to life in a manner that is engaging for young minds. For example, interactive games can enhance physical dexterity and coordination, while group play fosters emotional resilience and a sense of belonging.
Moreover, playtime also supports the development of academic skills such as maths and literacy. Our teachers incorporate playful activities like counting, measuring, and recognising patterns to teach mathematical concepts. Storytelling and role-playing sessions are employed to enhance literacy skills, making learning enjoyable and effective.
At St. Andrews Sathorn, we ensure that every concept is experienced as a delightful discovery rather than a mundane task.
The Significance of Outdoor Learning
It is essential for nursery-aged children to develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. During these formative years, children exhibit a natural curiosity about their environment. By nurturing this inquisitiveness, we lay the groundwork for future learning.
Parents can witness our commitment to outdoor learning through our thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces. St. Andrews Sathorn prioritises safety, ensuring a secure environment with careful supervision during outdoor activities.
These spaces encourage children to explore and discover beyond the confines of the classroom. Outdoor learning experiences might include observing weather patterns or exploring textures and sounds in nature, making learning immersive and enjoyable.
Fostering Imagination Through Play
We believe that imagination is not merely a source of entertainment; it is a gateway to critical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding complex concepts. Our play-based nursery curriculum is designed to ignite imagination through various activities, from building structures with toys to engaging in role play. These experiences stimulate cognitive growth, allowing children to appreciate different perspectives and explore cause-and-effect relationships—skills that are vital for their future learning.
Play-based learning also enhances memory and concentration. As children immerse themselves in imaginative scenarios, they develop heightened focus, strengthening cognitive pathways that aid in information retention and task accomplishment. By providing a rich array of imaginative resources, we teach children to think creatively from an early age.
The Importance of Parental Support
To create a consistent learning experience, we actively seek the involvement of parents. Parental support is invaluable as it strengthens the connection between home and school. St. Andrews International School Sathorn stands out among nurseries in Bangkok by emphasising the significance of family involvement in quality education.
To support our approach, we encourage parents to recognise the developmental value of play-based learning. Embracing this philosophy makes it easier for you to provide complementary play opportunities at home, ensuring that your child continues to learn even outside of school hours.
We promote open communication with parents, facilitating initiatives that allow for parental participation, such as volunteering in classrooms. This involvement offers a first-hand experience of the benefits of play in a classroom setting.
Experience the Best of Play-Based Learning in Bangkok
St. Andrews Sathorn is proud to be a member of the globally respected Cognita Group, which is known for its strong commitment to providing excellent education. Here, nursery-aged children get exposed to an academic approach rooted in holistic learning. That’s why play-based learning is something we uphold during a child’s formative years.
Our emphasis on individual growth aligns with our efforts to promote creativity, critical thinking, and social skills early on. Through play, children benefit from engaging experiences. These activities then urge them to discover their unique talents and interests.
Another aspect we, as part of the Cognita Group, want to highlight is our dedication to high safety and care standards. We promise parents our indoor and outdoor spaces are well-designed and supervised. That gives you peace of mind in knowing your child remains safe in all our enriching activities.
By blending Cognita’s global expertise with our commitment to play-based learning, we equip each child with the skills needed for lifelong learning. Here’s what one of our Sathorn families has to say about their experience with St. Andrews Sathorn:
From the first moment the four of us went through the school gates in August 2011, we knew we had found somewhere special. Both our kids started at two years old in nursery and made their way through to year 6. It has shaped our children’s lives and has prepared them for their next big step. We moved back to Germany for a year, but it was such a good feeling when we returned to meet old friends and teachers again.
St. Andrews Sathorn, Burton Family.
Consider booking a personalised tour to see for yourself how we integrate play into our nursery curriculum. You may also take this tour as a chance to explore our school facilities and meet our welcoming teachers and friendly staff. We look forward to helping you nurture your children as they grow with knowledge and kindness.
