ShodhPatra: International Journal of Science and Humanities

Play-Based Pedagogy in Foundation Education: A Critical Analysis of NCFFS-2022

The national Curriculum Framework for Foundation Stage (NCFFS) 2022 which is introduced for the very first time marks a significant shift in India’s Early Childhood education by emphasizing play-based pedagogy as the cornerstone of learning. This article critically examines the conceptual foundations, pedagogical implications and implications challenges of play-based learning as proposed in NCFFS 2022. It highlights how play fosters joyful, stress free learning environment also highlights the power of play, outlining different types of play and it benefits. Also focuses on holistic development of the children which includes cognitive, affective (social-emotional), Psychomotor (physical growth) domain, significance of NCFFS 2022 its challenges and limitation on the study. The article also addressing concerns related to teacher’s preparedness, infrastructure and assessment practices of the teachers teaching in the foundation stage. Present article examines how play based pedagogies is crucial for achieving holistic development among children and understanding the impact of different types of play on the all-round development of the children. The analysis underscores the need for systemic support to effectively translate policy into practice and understand the Indian’s vision for high quality early childhood care and education.