What is play and why is it important? Worldwide, the role and significance of play-based learning as opposed to an academic curriculum is under scrutiny. Rethinking learning through play focuses on the role of play in young children in the early years and how it encourages optimal learning. Rethinking learning through play examines various theories and approaches to play, and explores a range of strategies and techniques to integrate play successfully in the learning environment and daily programme. With its strong theoretical foundation, it explains in practical terms what and how children learn through play, and how to support learning through play in different contexts. Rethinking learning through play is aimed at pre-service teachers as well as those who are already working in the field and who value the development and optimal learning of young children.