Jean Piaget, a revolutionary psychologist of his time, changed the tide of developmental psychology when he proposed that a child’s mind is different from that of an adult.

Because of that, it is obvious that children should be taught things in a different way, too – but people are quick to assume that learning happens only when it is serious and silent.

This anti-fun epidemic in today’s education has damaged young minds more than it has solved problems; not only children hardly learn anything, they slowly extract themselves away from the pursuit of knowledge. Insightful minds get suppressed, and children’s lives become grey.

People should know that fun in learning is not bad – in fact, it is helpful in the long run.

Brain researches conducted have found that fun is essential for a child’s impressionable mind – not just for education, but for authentic learning and long-term memory.

All this – and more – has even been proven by science.

Neurologist and educator, Judy Willis, mention the benefits of fun-filled learning activities in her book, “Research-Based Strategies to Ignite Student Learning: Insights from a Neurologist and Classroom Teacher” (ASCD, 2006). In it, she quotes:

“The highest-level executive thinking, making of connections, and “aha” moments are more likely to occur in an atmosphere of “exuberant discovery,” where students of all ages retain that kindergarten enthusiasm of embracing each day with the joy of learning.”

She further shows this by stating the chemical effects fun learning has on a child’s brain:

“The human brain and body respond positively to laughter with the release of endorphin, epinephrine (adrenaline), and dopamine, and with increased breathing volume (more oxygen). When a lesson starts with humour, there is more alerting, and the subsequent information is attached to the positive emotional event as an event or flashbulb memory.”

So, this makes things obvious: with increased levels of dopamine, endorphins and oxygen, the brain becomes more alert, and more receptive to new pieces of information. Children not only learn fast and efficiently, but they also develop a foundation of success for their bright futures.

This will help cure the old anti-fun epidemic – but only if fun is incorporated in today’s modern, internet-savvy age in the right way.

Ways that Oakfield Early Learning Center aims to fulfill that include:
A curriculum involving learning through play
Areas like the library, music room and movement room designed to stimulate activity and engagement
Providing children with consistent interactions with both trained practitioners and with each other, through age-appropriate resources made to start creative play during each stage of the child’s development.
Multiple educational activities that help build confidence and responsibility within the child

Therefore, Oakfield helps children grow into confident, bright people – with bright futures.