A importância dos jogos e brincadeiras para o processo de desenvolvimento e aprendizagem das crianças na educação infantil

Abstract

This paper addresses the importance of games and play in child development, highlighting their relevance in the context of early childhood education. Based on a literature review, grounded in authors such as Jean Piaget, Lev Vygotsky, and Henri Wallon, it is evident that playful activities constitute an essential element for the cognitive, social, affective, and motor development of the child. Play is understood as an activity that favors the construction of knowledge, the expression of feelings, socialization, and the development of imagination. Furthermore, the role of the teacher as a mediator of this process is highlighted, being responsible for providing meaningful experiences through pedagogical practices that value play. Therefore, when used intentionally, games and play can contribute to more meaningful learning and to the integral development of the child in early childhood education.