Ask any great early childhood educator what their most powerful teaching tool is, and chances are the answer won’t be a textbook. It’ll be play.
Across Australia, 88.4% of educators use play to teach literacy and numeracy, and 93% say it directly improves academic growth and engagement in children. The numbers tell a pretty clear story, play and cognitive development go hand in hand.
At Karratha Early Learning Centre, this is something we see lived out every single day. From imaginative role play to hands-on exploration, the play based learning benefits are real, they’re measurable, and they’re shaping the bright little minds in our care. Let’s explore exactly how.
What is Play Based Learning?
Play based learning is an approach where children develop important skills by exploring, creating, imagining and interacting with the world around them. Instead of simply being taught information, children actively learn through play experiences that encourage curiosity, problem-solving, communication and creativity. This balance of guided learning and child-led exploration supports child cognitive development while helping children build confidence, independence and a genuine love of learning.
What Types of Play Improve Brain Development?
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Construction Play
Active Play
Sensory Play
Social Play
Playing with others teaches children how to share, cooperate, communicate, and work through challenges together.
How Play Supports Cognitive Development?
Encourages Curiosity and Discovery
Children are naturally curious. Play gives them the freedom to ask questions, investigate ideas and discover how things work through hands-on experiences.
At Karratha Early Learning Centre, children explore a variety of themed learning stations, including science, literacy, mathematics, art, STEM, construction and dramatic play. These experiences encourage children to think independently while developing important problem-solving skills.
Builds Thinking and Decision-Making Skills
Every time children make choices during play, they’re strengthening their ability to think critically. Whether they’re solving a puzzle, building with blocks or working with others, they’re learning how to plan, test ideas and adapt when challenges arise.
Our educators intentionally guide these experiences, helping children extend their thinking while still allowing them to take the lead in their own learning. This balance is one of the greatest play based learning benefits.
Supports Language and Early Literacy
Play creates countless opportunities for conversation. Children build vocabulary, practise listening and develop confidence expressing their ideas through storytelling, imaginative play and group discussions.
Weekly Show and Tell gives children a chance to speak in front of their classmates, build communication skills and prepare for classroom participation before they begin school. Daily sign-in activities also introduce early literacy skills such as recognising letters and writing their names.
Improves Memory and Concentration
Children retain information more effectively when they’re actively involved in the learning process. Hands-on activities encourage them to observe, remember, compare and apply what they’ve learned in different situations.
Small-group learning experiences at our centre allow educators to deepen children’s understanding through discussion, creative activities and collaborative learning while providing individual support where needed.
Develops Confidence and Independence
As children take responsibility for everyday tasks, they begin to trust their own abilities. These experiences strengthen resilience, encourage independence and help children feel ready for new challenges.
Our School Readiness Program includes leadership roles, practical life activities and opportunities for children to contribute to their classroom community. These experiences help prepare children not only for school but for life by building confidence, responsibility and independence.
Give Your Child the Best Start Through Play
The best way to understand the play based learning benefits is to see them in action, and that is exactly what we invite you to do.
Karratha Early Learning is a Reggio Emilia-inspired centre in Baynton West, open Monday to Friday. We offer flexible session lengths to suit your family’s routine:
| Session | Hours | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 6:00am – 6:00pm | 12 hours | $204.86 per day |
| 7:00am – 6:00pm | 11 hours | $196.00 per day |
| 7:00am – 5:00pm | 10 hours | $190.00 per day |
Need something more flexible? Casual bookings are also available for families who only need care on selected days.
As a CCS-approved centre, most families pay significantly less out of pocket thanks to the Australian Government’s Child Care Subsidy. To check availability or ask about your options, just get in touch. Our team is happy to walk you through everything.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book a half-day casual care session?
Contact the Karratha Early Learning team directly to check availability and confirm your booking. Remember, availability is not guaranteed and bookings are confirmed by the centre.
Can I use my Child Care Subsidy (CCS) for the half-day session?
What happens if I need to cancel?
What if my child isn't collected by 2:00pm?
Is this a permanent session or just a trial?
A Note From Our Team
We know that making childcare work for your family, financially and logistically, isn’t always straightforward, especially in a regional community like Karratha. This half-day casual care trial is one of the ways we’re putting that understanding into action.
We’re looking forward to seeing how this option supports more of our families, and we’d love to hear your feedback as the trial progresses.
Have questions or ready to book? Get in touch with the Karratha Early Learning childcare team today.