Play Matters Here

Learning Through Play

At Illinois AEYC, we know that play is more than fun—it’s how children learn best. Backed by research from NAEYC, play builds critical thinking, social-emotional skills, creativity, and physical development. When children play, they explore the world, solve problems, and connect with others in meaningful ways.

Play is a child’s right and a cornerstone of high-quality early learning. By protecting time for play, we ensure that every child has the joyful, engaging experiences they need to thrive.