Program
Education K-12 M.A.
Number of Pages
98
Year Approved
2024
First Advisor
Silmser, Lisa
Second Reader
Jason Bodey
Abstract
This work sought to further understand the benefits and consequences of play in early childhood settings. Benefits included brain development stimulation, improvement in intelligence, a boost in personal creative thinking, bolstered communication skills and social emotional regulation abilities, better social competence, improved physical and mental health, increased problem solving skills, and strengthened relationships. Varying types of play provide valuable data points as to the critical importance of play in the development of young children. Research continues to suggest a strong link between the efficacy of purposeful play and the correlating benefits of children’s growth and development in key areas. These key areas include, but are not limited to, improved social emotional regulation skills, strengthened relationships, greater problem solving skills, increased academic achievement, and much more. The relationship between play and literacy development is also considered. Additional factors of note include play and safety, differing types of preschool settings, teacher’s perceptions on play, the impact of video games on children’s development, familial income levels, and play benefits evaluated within the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme setting.
Degree Name
Education K-12 M.A.
Document Type
Masterʼs thesis
Recommended Citation
Howell, C. B. (2024). The Value of Play in an International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program Preschool Classroom [Masterʼs thesis, Bethel University]. Spark Repository. https://spark.bethel.edu/etd/1061