Why Play and Feelings Matter in Early Learning

Early childhood is one of the most important stages of life. From birth through age five, children’s brains build connections at a rate that will never be matched again. The way children play, interact, and explore during this time shapes how they think, feel, and relate to others. At Ivy Academy, both play and social-emotional learning (SEL) are at the heart of every program—from the infant room through kindergarten.

The Power of Play

Researchers agree: play is a child’s work. The American Academy of Pediatrics calls play “essential to healthy brain development” because it fuels language, problem-solving, and creativity while reducing stress. Studies also show that play supports “executive function”—skills like memory, focus, and self-control that help children succeed in school and in life.

At Ivy, each stage of development integrates play in age-appropriate ways:

• Infants (6 weeks–15 months): Sensory toys, sound and language experiences, and safe opportunities to move build motor skills and cognitive growth.

• Toddlers (15 months–2 years): Child-sized spaces and accessible materials encourage independence. Choosing between activities builds confidence, curiosity, and early decision-making.

• Preschool & Pre-K (ages 2–5): Classrooms include activity centers for art, dramatic play, building, and puzzles. These experiences strengthen fine- and gross-motor skills while sparking imagination.

• Kindergarten: While tied to Illinois Early Learning Standards, lessons still use play as a core tool—through group projects, games, and active learning that makes academics engaging.

Play at Ivy is not “extra.” It’s how children practice problem-solving, explore creativity, and build resilience—skills that go far beyond the classroom.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): What It Is and Why It Matters

SEL is the process of learning how to manage emotions, build positive relationships, and make responsible choices. The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) identifies five key areas:

1. Self-awareness – recognizing feelings and strengths

2. Self-management – controlling impulses and handling stress

3. Social awareness – showing empathy and respect

4. Relationship skills – communicating, cooperating, resolving conflict

5. Responsible decision-making – making thoughtful, caring choices

Why is SEL important? Large-scale studies show that SEL programs improve children’s academic performance and reduce anxiety, stress, and problem behaviors. The CDC also emphasizes that social-emotional growth is part of healthy child milestones, from toddlers learning to take turns to preschoolers building friendships.

How Ivy Supports SEL

Ivy’s website highlights how teachers use positive guidance, age-appropriate routines, and safe environments to nurture emotional growth. Examples include:

• Infants: Consistent, responsive interaction from caregivers builds security and trust—the foundation of social-emotional development.

• Toddlers & Preschoolers: Teachers encourage self-help skills like feeding, dressing, and organizing toys, building independence and confidence. Cozy classroom areas allow for quiet reflection and comfort when needed.

• Pre-K & Kindergarten: Teachers model emotional regulation, cooperation, and empathy. Children learn to work in groups, solve problems with peers, and express their feelings in positive ways.

These practices align with research showing that strong SEL in early years leads to healthier relationships and better school readiness later on.

The Bottom Line

When play and SEL come together, children grow in every way—cognitively, physically, and emotionally. They learn how to explore, imagine, and persist, while also gaining empathy, confidence, and resilience.

At Ivy Academy, this balance is intentional. By combining hands-on play with daily social-emotional learning, Ivy helps children develop not only the skills they need for school, but also the confidence and compassion they need for life.