“If my child plays all day, how will they be ready for school?”

 

It’s a common concern for parents, but at HEI Schools, we believe that play isn’t a break from learning—it is learning. Research has shown that children need around 400 repetitions to master a skill through traditional methods. But when children learn through play? It takes only 20 repetitions.

This powerful insight drives the way we approach learning at HEI Schools. Our curriculum blends two key types of play to create an enriching and effective learning experience: free play and guided play.

 

Free Play: Where Creativity Blossoms

In free play, children take the lead. They explore their interests, make decisions, and develop independence. Whether they’re building a fort, playing pretend, or creating their own games, they’re actively strengthening their critical thinking, problem-solving, and social skills.

Free play nurtures curiosity, allowing children to:

✅ Build confidence by making their own choices.

✅ Develop communication skills through interaction with peers.

✅ Explore creativity by inventing new ways to play.

Guided Play: Adding Depth to Discovery

In guided play, teachers step in to expand the learning experience. The goal isn’t to take control but to add meaningful learning opportunities. For example:

🔹 If children are building a tower, the teacher might introduce concepts like balance and measurement, turning playtime into a math lesson.

🔹 If they’re playing restaurant, a teacher might encourage them to write a menu, enhancing their literacy skills.

By observing children’s interests and interactions, teachers introduce new vocabulary, ask open-ended questions, and guide children to explore concepts on a deeper level.

Learning That Lasts

Through this combination of free play and guided play, children are not just “getting ready for school”—they are mastering the skills that matter in a way that truly sticks.

In early childhood education, play ignites curiosity, builds essential life skills, and creates a solid foundation for lifelong learning. At HEI Schools Mauritius, we know that children learn best when they’re actively engaged, encouraged to explore, and inspired to ask questions.

So the next time you see your child playing, know that they’re not just having fun—they’re mastering the building blocks of knowledge, one joyful moment at a time. ✨