O BRINCAR É COISA SÉRIA: OLHARES E DESAFIOS DOS EDUCADORES NO COTIDIANO DAS CRECHES PÚBLICAS

Abstract

This study examined the role of play in the daily routine of public daycare centers, considering its importance for child development and the challenges educators face when integrating play into pedagogical practice. The research sought to answer how educators understand the role of play and which factors facilitate or hinder its implementation in early childhood education settings. The objective was to analyze this topic based on educational policy documents and scientific studies. The theoretical framework was grounded in research on child development, learning, play-based education, pedagogical mediation, and educational policies for early childhood education. An integrative literature review with a qualitative and descriptive approach was conducted. The findings showed that play is an essential element of children's holistic development and that its educational potential is strengthened through intentional planning, effective pedagogical mediation, and appropriate institutional conditions. It is concluded that valuing play enhances educational practices and supports the implementation of the guiding principles of early childhood education.