The Challenge of Implementing Free Play in Preschool: Concept Paper

Abstract

The National Preschool Standard Curriculum (Revised 2017) describes that the outdoor activities component includes physical activities and free play that aim to build fitness and stimulate the intelligence of students. Free play provides students the opportunity to make independent choices about what, when and how to play. Students are also independent to determine the rules and their roles while playing. This concept paper discusses the challenges of implementing free play among preschool teachers. Based on the review, the implementation of free play is considered not crucial by several parties, causing teachers to not emphasize it and have low knowledge about its application during the teaching and learning process. Research on the implementation of free play is also still under-conducted. There are four main challenges faced by preschool teachers in implementing free play, namely issues of teacher knowledge, resources, materials and tools, time allocation and lack of support from administrators, parents and community. Some recommendations based on the findings of previous studies are also presented to address the challenges faced by preschool teachers.