Learning through Play in Early Childhood Education in Zambia

This manual, developed under the IT’S PLAY project by the Ministry of Education in Zambia and VVOB with support from the LEGO Foundation, introduces the concept, principles and pedagogical framework of Learning Through Play (LtP) in Early Childhood Education (ECE). It explains how play supports holistic child development: cognitive, physical, social-emotional, and moral, while strengthening motivation, creativity and lifelong learning.

The publication builds on developmental theories by Piaget and Vygotsky and presents the 7Cs Framework (Concrete, Captivating, Connected, Challenging, Collaborative, Creative, and Cheerful) as a practical guide for teachers. It defines the continuum of play, from free play to guided and structured play, and clarifies teachers’ roles as facilitators, observers, mediators and guides. Through concrete classroom strategies and examples, it equips ECE teachers and school leaders with tools to integrate play-based pedagogy into daily practice effectively.