Observations of decline in preschool play and an increase in academic demands serves as a catalyst for this capstone project on the role of play in learning. A child’s core occupation is play, and academic pursuits are gradually pushing this necessary occupation aside. Based on a review of evidence and clinical pediatric experience as an occupational therapist, this author hypothesizes a strong connection between play and school readiness skills. Occupational therapy brings a knowledge of development and occupation to the discussion of the importance of play. This capstone aims to highlight evidence supporting play as an important childhood role in preschool education. The capstone project purposes to provide practical activities incorporating play as a modality for learning. This author hopes to help bring play back to preschools despite current academic standards.
