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The Power of Play at High Meadows

By Lisa Baker, Head of School
In the woods, playgrounds, and classrooms of High Meadows School, I see children playing and hear sounds of joy every day as children explore, discover, and collaborate. From Pre-K to middle school, the laughter is a result of their natural curiosity and those sparks that ignite when making true connections to people and concepts. Sometimes students disagree and have to find a new way to solve a problem. Sometimes the game changes or they create some new addition to their play.  It’s fun and challenging, and it’s at the heart of what we do at High Meadows. Here, we don’t think of play as a “break”, rather it is an  integral part of learning, fostering holistic development, and nurturing skills that extend far beyond the classroom walls.
Types of Play and How We Learn from Them

We have compiled some definitions of play, informed by the teachings of Peter Gray and our resident experts at High Meadows, that help us understand why and how these playful moments that may seem trivial on the surface hold deep value for children as they grow and develop life skills. Here are a few of the different examples of meaningful play that we encourage at High Meadows and what children are learning. 

1. Fantasy play: Whether pretending to be superheroes saving the world or astronauts exploring distant galaxies, fantasy play allows children to stretch their imaginations and develop creativity. In these imaginary worlds, they learn to solve problems, negotiate roles, and explore complex emotions, laying the foundation for critical thinking and empathy.

2. Language play: From storytelling sessions to puppet shows, language play provides a fertile ground for language development. Through conversations, negotiations, and the creation of their narratives, children hone their communication skills, vocabulary, and storytelling abilities, preparing them for future academic success and social interactions.

3. Constructive play: With blocks, Legos, recycled fabric, and other building materials at their disposal, children engage in constructive play, where they learn about shapes, sizes, and spatial relationships. They develop mathematical reasoning, spatial awareness, and perseverance as they experiment with different configurations and problem-solve to overcome obstacles.

4. Formal rule play: Board games, card games, organized sports, and games (think Gaga or 6 Square) introduce children to formal rule play, where they learn about following instructions, taking turns, and abiding by rules. Through these structured activities, they develop strategic thinking, sportsmanship, and self-regulation, essential skills for navigating the complexities of the real world.

5. Social play: Whether engaged in cooperative games or dramatic play scenarios, social play fosters collaboration, empathy, and conflict resolution. By interacting with peers, children learn to understand different perspectives, negotiate relationships, and work towards common goals, laying the groundwork for healthy social dynamics and meaningful relationships.

6. Physical locomotion play: Running, jumping, swinging on the tire swing, climbing, and balancing – physical locomotion play – not only promotes physical health and fitness but also enhances gross motor skills and coordination. Through active play, children develop spatial awareness, body control, and risk assessment, empowering them to explore their environments confidently and safely. There are even strong correlations between reading and gross motor skills. 

In addition to encouraging these types of play, we also recognize the importance of incorporating open-ended, child-directed play opportunities that prompt deep learning. As Mister Rogers said, “Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” Activities such as nature exploration, art creation, and sensory play allow children to follow their interests, make discoveries, and express themselves freely, fostering a sense of agency and intrinsic motivation.

Play is not just a pastime for children; it's a powerful tool for learning and growth. According to a report from the American Academy of Pediatrics entitled The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in Enhancing Development in Young Children, "Play is not frivolous: it enhances brain structure and function and promotes executive function (i.e., the process of learning, rather than the content), which allow us to pursue goals and ignore distractions."  

At High Meadows, we embrace play as an essential curriculum component, providing children with rich and meaningful experiences that lay the foundation for lifelong learning. By engaging in various forms of play, children develop diverse skills, from critical thinking and creativity to social-emotional intelligence and physical dexterity, preparing them to thrive in our ever-changing world. 

Now, how will you engage in play today?  It’s not just for kids, you know :)

Related Articles:
Raising Ethical Leaders Through Play by Middle School Principal Matt Nuttall
Let's Build a Tower Taller Than Ms. Kennedy by Lower School Principal Lori Kennedy

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The High Meadows community celebrates and perpetuates each individual’s quest for knowledge and skill, sense of wonder, and connection to the natural environment. We empower each to be a compassionate, responsible, and active global citizen.
Age 3 through Grade 8 | Authorized IB PYP World School
1055 Willeo Road, Roswell, Georgia 30075 | (770) 993-2940 | info@highmeadows.org