Heuristic play is an enriching type of play where babies and young children interact with objects from the real world. The goal of heuristic play is to provide a wide range of sensory stimulation to help children discover and learn things for themselves.

Heuristic play encourages children to use their senses and to explore and work with the objects and materials available. Children are motivated to choose the ideas that they want to investigate and learn in an active, hands-on way. Their progression in learning is supported through exploration. Heuristic play is meaningful for children when adults are tuned in and observe the way they interact with the materials and provide further opportunities for the children to continue to explore and build on their ideas.

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