Abstract
Studying the role of play in Waldorf Education is essential to understanding how playful practices can transform the holistic development of children, fostering not only their cognitive learning but also their emotional, social, and physical well-being. In this context, this study explores the importance of play in Waldorf Education, highlighting how this practice contributes to the integral development of children by encompassing cognitive, motor, emotional, and social aspects.
The research analyzes the impact of play on strengthening both body and mind, while also demonstrating its benefits for mental health, social skills, and neuropsychomotor development. In discussing the use of play as a pedagogical tool, the study emphasizes its potential to promote values such as empathy, resilience, and respect, as well as its relevance in building a more humane and inclusive education. Through a literature review, the foundations and principles of Waldorf education are presented, showing how play constitutes an essential element for shaping balanced individuals prepared to face life’s challenges.
Keywords: Play, Waldorf Education, Child Development, Mental Health, Neuropsychomotor Development