The Role of Play in Early Learning

When you think about preschool, do you picture children sitting quietly at tables, learning letters and numbers? At Little Steps Preschool, we believe learning at this age looks different—and much more joyful. The truth is, play is the foundation of early learning.

Why Play Matters in Preschool

Research shows that play isn’t just fun—it’s how young children build critical skills. Through guided play, kids develop:

  • Language and communication: Talking during pretend play grows vocabulary.

  • Problem-solving skills: Building towers or creating art sparks creativity and persistence.

  • Social-emotional growth: Playing with friends teaches sharing, cooperation, and empathy.

  • Confidence: Making choices and trying new things helps kids feel capable and proud.

How We Use Play with Purpose

At Little Steps Preschool, we use the HighScope curriculum, a play-based learning approach designed for early childhood. Each day, children plan their activities, explore through hands-on play, and reflect on what they’ve learned. Teachers guide the process, ensuring every activity is purposeful and supports growth.

This means your child isn’t just “playing”—they’re building the social, emotional, and academic skills they’ll need for kindergarten and beyond.

Local Families Trust Us

Parents in Sandy, UT, and South Jordan, UT love that Little Steps combines the joy of play with research-backed learning. Our small class sizes, caring teachers, and focus on confidence help children feel supported from day one.


Looking for a preschool near Sandy or South Jordan that values play as the heart of learning? Schedule a tour at Little Steps Preschool and see how we make learning fun, purposeful, and full of confidence-building moments.

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Teaching Preschoolers to Solve Problems: How HighScope Builds Empathy and Peace

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Helping Your Preschooler Make Friends and Build Confidence