At Waves Early Learning, we see play as more than just fun; it’s the foundation for how children explore, question, and make sense of the world around them. One of the ways we bring this philosophy to life is through long-term play projects.
Rather than moving quickly from one activity to another, play projects give children the time, space, and resources to dive deeply into an idea. This approach fosters creativity, persistence, and collaboration while allowing children to take ownership of their learning.
What Are Play Projects?
Play projects are extended learning journeys that grow out of children’s interests and questions. A project might begin with something simple, a fascination with insects in the garden, building with blocks, or curiosity about water play. From there, educators and children work together to expand the experience: researching, experimenting, problem-solving, and creating.
Because projects are guided by children’s curiosity, no two are ever the same. They can last a few weeks or sometimes months, depending on how the children continue to engage and evolve their ideas.
Why Projects Matter
Play projects are powerful because they:
- Encourage persistence – Children learn that ideas take time to grow. They revisit challenges, try again, and develop resilience.
- Build collaboration – Working together on a shared project helps children practise communication, negotiation, and teamwork.
- Promote creativity and problem-solving – Projects often involve trial and error. Children invent, design, and refine their ideas as they go.
- Connect to real life – Projects often link to the world beyond the classroom, giving children meaningful, hands-on experiences.
- Deepen learning – By spending extended time on one idea, children gain richer knowledge and stronger skills than if they only had brief exposure.
Examples at Waves
Some of our past and current play projects at Waves have included:
- Garden Projects – Children plant seeds, care for plants, and learn about growth, sustainability, and food.
- Construction Projects – Using blocks, recycled materials, and loose parts, children collaborate to design buildings, bridges, and whole communities.
- Art Installations – From group paintings to collaborative sculptures, children explore creativity while leaving a lasting mark on their environment.
- Water Exploration – Investigating floating, sinking, pouring, and flow, children connect science with sensory play.
Each of these projects evolves based on the children’s contributions and ideas, making the learning process unique and meaningful.
The Educator’s Role
In play projects, educators act as guides and partners in learning. We:
- Observe children’s interests closely.
- Ask thoughtful questions to extend curiosity.
- Provide resources, books, and tools to deepen the project.
- Document progress so children and families can reflect on the journey.
By supporting rather than directing, educators help children see themselves as capable thinkers, creators, and problem-solvers.
Why Families Love Projects
Families often tell us they enjoy seeing their child’s involvement in long-term projects. Documentation such as photos, curriculum walls, and program books makes the process visible. Parents can see not just what children did, but how they thought, collaborated, and grew over time.
Conclusion
Play projects remind us that children are natural learners with endless curiosity. When given the time and space to pursue their ideas, they show persistence, creativity, and joy. At Waves, we believe these projects are not only powerful learning tools but also rich opportunities to celebrate children’s voices and achievements.