Dr Viki Veale on Play Matters

Dr Viki Veale is a senior lecturer in Early Years and Primary education at St Mary’s University Twickenham, Chair of TACTYC, co-chair of the reception class teachers network and the alliance 4 children’s early years working group – all of whom believe firmly in the power of play. She has also contributed to a number of policy guidance documents, including writing several chapters for the fabulous Play Matters, which was released in 2025 and is free on the Early Years Reviews website.

This insightful interview with Dr Viki Veale explores the vital role of play in children’s learning and development, addressing common myths and providing practical strategies for supporting playful learning in early years settings and schools. You’ll discover research-backed approaches to implementing play-based pedagogy, handling challenging play behaviours, and creating environments that truly support children’s developmental needs.

In this episode you’ll:

• Learn why the myth that “play stops when children start school” is damaging children’s learning potential
• Discover how to reframe challenging play behaviours like rough and tumble and weapon play as essential developmental experiences
• Understand the neurological imperative behind play and how it builds crucial executive function skills
• Explore practical strategies for creating playful learning environments in both nurseries and reception classes
• Find out why transitions are far more complex than we think and how play helps children process daily emotional experiences

Watch this episode to discover evidence-based approaches that will help you champion play-based learning and support children’s natural developmental processes.

Episode Links:

https://www.early-years-reviews.com/play-matters

https://www.facebook.com/groups/3849467268703237

Play Matters: https://www.early-years-reviews.com/play-matters

School Readiness Matters: https://www.tactyc.org.uk/school-readiness-matters

Power2play: https://eprints.worc.ac.uk/15072/4/Power%202%20Play%20Report.pdf

The Power of Play: https://childrensalliance.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Play-Policy-18Apr2024-Childrens-Alliance.pdf

A Plan for Play: https://childrensalliance.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/A-PLAN-FOR-PLAY-FINAL-ILLUSTRATED.pdf

https://www.centreforyounglives.org.uk/play-commission