New AERO paper shows intentional play-based learning boosts outcomes for children

Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO) has highlighted the critical role of intentional play-based learning in early childhood education and care (ECEC).

Findings suggest that when educators and teachers purposefully support learning through play, children benefit significantly academically, socially and developmentally.

AERO CEO Dr Jenny Donovan explained:

“Historically, intentional teaching and play-based learning have often been positioned in opposition to one another. Our research challenges that notion, showing that significant associations exist between educators and teachers intentionally supporting learning through play to achieve positive outcomes for the child.”

The paper also provides plain language definition of intentional teaching and includes visual concept maps that link the evidence to the National Quality Standard and the updated Early Years Learning Framework V2.0.

Explore the resource here .