Unstructured play is not a distraction from the real work of childhood – it is the real work

In today’s fast-paced and results-driven world, it’s easy to overlook one of the most fundamental aspects of childhood – play.

Too often, we prioritise structured learning and academic milestones over the unstructured, imaginative play that is crucial for a child’s development. Yet, play is not only a way for children to have fun, but also their natural way of learning, growing and engaging with the world. During early childhood, play is nothing short of essential.

Play, in its simplest form, allows children to explore, experiment and make sense of their surroundings. From infancy through preschool, children use play to discover how things work, build social relationships and develop emotional resilience. Whether stacking blocks, pretending to be superheroes, or navigating their first play date conflicts, children are developing lifelong skills through these seemingly simple activities. Yet, as grown-ups, we often fail to recognise its full value.

I’ve observed first-hand the immense benefits of play, both as a parent and as an early childhood educator. When children are given the freedom to play, they naturally become more curious, engaged and resilient. It’s in these moments of self-directed discovery that they begin to develop the critical thinking, problem-solving and emotional intelligence that will serve them for the rest of their lives.

Play isn’t only about letting children run free, either. It requires us, as adults, to create the right environment, one where children feel safe to explore, imagine and make mistakes.

In the early years, this means offering a variety of materials and open-ended toys that encourage exploration without being overly prescriptive. As children grow, their play becomes more social, and they learn to navigate group dynamics, take turns and collaborate with others. These are skills that go beyond childhood and into adulthood, helping them become empathetic and co-operative individuals.

Unfortunately, we live in a world that often undervalues play. Parents worry about their children falling behind academically, schools focus on structured learning and toys are increasingly designed with a specific purpose in mind, limiting the creative freedom children need. But by prioritising play, we are actually laying a stronger foundation for academic success and personal growth. Children who engage in creative, unstructured play are better problem-solvers, more resilient and more capable of thinking critically.

A holistic approach to play – one that engages a child’s mind, emotions and physical abilities – ensures we nurture the whole child. Play is the ultimate form of learning, allowing children to stretch their thinking (the head), process emotions (the heart) and engage physically with the world (the hands).

As parents and educators, we need to trust that giving children the space and time to play will yield far greater results than forcing them into rigid learning structures.

At the nursery I run, for example, I see the transformational power of play every day. Children come alive when they are given the freedom to explore and create, and it is in these moments that we see the most growth.

In a society that increasingly values speed, productivity and measurable outcomes, we must remember that play is where true learning happens. It’s not a distraction from the real work of childhood – it is the real work. And as we invest in our children’s play, we’re not just supporting their current development, we’re also equipping them for a lifetime of curiosity, resilience and joy.

Dubai resident and mum of two, Saanika Gandhi, is the founder and chief executive of Yellow Kite Nursery (formerly Kangaroo Kids) and author of The Yellow Kite (2024), a children’s book that celebrates the wonder and discovery that come with play