Leitura e reflexões: uma análise teórico-prática sobre jogos e brincadeiras na educação infantil

Abstract

Game and play activities are essential in the teaching and learning process, as they contribute to children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development by stimulating autonomy, creativity, and the expression of emotions. In early childhood education, these practices make the environment more pleasant, dynamic, and meaningful, provided they are properly planned. This study aims to analyze the importance of games and play in early childhood education through a theoretical–practical analysis. The research adopted a qualitative approach, based on bibliographic references and on experiences gained during the Supervised Internship and Pedagogical Practice I. According to Gil (2002), bibliographic research is carried out through the reading of books, scientific articles, dissertations, academic journals, and other materials that emphasize the relevance of games and play as playful activities in the teaching and learning process. To enrich the discussion on the topic, this study sought to deepen its analysis through works by Andrade (2010), Kishimoto (1998), Santos (2017), and Vygotsky (1998), among others, whose contributions broaden reflections on the subject addressed. It is concluded that games and play are not merely forms of entertainment, but elements that make learning more enjoyable and engaging, facilitating the natural construction of knowledge by combining theory and practice.