The power of learning through your child's interests..

It is widely recognised that children (and indeed, all learners) learn best when their experiences are meaningful. In the Early Years, this is primarily achieved through play-based learning, an understanding of schemas, and following the child's interests. By recognising and responding to a child's schematic play and personal interests, professionals can foster engaging, authentic interactions and conduct valuable observations that support their development. It is from spending time with two and three-year-olds, and observing their play-based learning, that I know they have got it right! Their skill development is unmatched, and that is due to the environment provided for them and the adults' understanding of child development and child-led play!

“Children need the freedom and time to play. Play is not a luxury. Play is a necessity.” — Kay Redfield Jamison.

Helping your child learn to read and spell is no different. 'True' play is entirely child-led, allowing children full autonomy and freedom from external pressures. However, playful learning can still be highly effective when we align experiences with their interests.

Engagement increases when learning aligns with a child's interests, making it easier for them to transfer new skills into memory. This reduces the need for repeated practice, as learning becomes more natural and meaningful.

Why does this approach matter?

• Boosts Engagement & Enjoyment – Learning feels natural and exciting when it connects to a child's interests, making them more eager to participate.

• Enhances Memory & Retention – Meaningful experiences help children transfer knowledge into long-term memory, reducing the need for repetitive practice.

• Encourages Problem-Solving & Creativity – Play allows children to experiment, take risks, and develop flexible thinking.

• Supports Emotional & Social Development—When learning is fun and interest–driven, Children build confidence, resilience, and positive relationships.

• Strengthens Cognitive Skills – Play-based learning promotes critical thinking, language development, and executive functioning.

"If children have interest, then education happens." — Sugata Mitra

Just one example of how and why this works!

At the start of my tutoring journey, I worked with a child whose self-esteem was so low that she actively avoided reading and spelling. Her difficulties had gone unrecognised in the education system—perhaps because she was a highly capable child who could navigate challenges through verbal reasoning.

To support her, I began by exploring her interests. She loved teddies, movement, and creative activities, which became central to our sessions. The teddies “did the learning,” allowing her to engage without fear of mistakes. I saw remarkable progress through activities tailored to her passions—painting, water play, scavenger hunts, and even Barbies.

Over time, her confidence grew. Eventually, she no longer relied on the teddies, realising that mistakes were a natural part of learning. She understood that she wouldn't be judged and saw that I made mistakes too, which was okay.

One day, her mother joined a session and was amazed at the transformation. Her daughter took the lead, teaching me, and her creativity and joy shone again. Afterwards, her mother shared how grateful she was to see her daughter’s happy, imaginative personality returning.

The journey didn’t end there—we continued learning and playing—but the process became much easier once her self-esteem was restored. This is just one example of how a child's interests can be the key to unlocking their potential, and it's a story I hold close.