Discover 72 inspirational learning through play quotes to use in your play based classroom. These quotes will not only enhance the learning environment but also motivate both teachers and students. Download your free printable quotes and start transforming your classroom today!

Do you collect inspirational teaching quotes? Do you have motivating sayings displayed throughout your classroom, jotted down in notebooks, used as binder covers, and sprinkled throughout your teaching diary and planning documents? 

If this sounds like you, or something you are interested in doing, you will love what I have put together for you here in this blog post.

As early childhood educators, we understand the power that a simple quote can hold. These little nuggets of wisdom can brighten our days, remind us of our core teaching philosophies, and inspire both us and those around us.

Whether displayed on the classroom door, at investigation areas, or woven into our planning documents, quotes can become a source of daily inspiration and reflection.

It can be a challenge though.

Finding the right quotes that align with a play-based learning philosophy can be difficult. Most quotes you come across may speak to general educational themes but fall short of capturing the essence of learning through play and that’s the heart of what we do in early childhood education.

So I set to work and put together a special collection of 72 quotes that are not just inspirational but are specifically centred around learning through play. 

because - well… Play is the most effective kind of education 😉

They are perfect for

• enhancing your classroom environment

• motivating you through your planning

• and educating parents and visitors about the importance of play and hands-on learning.

What makes these quotes even more special is how they’ve been designed - each quote is printable, making them easy and quick to use with no fuss and no extra effort. They’re the perfect addition to your teaching toolkit, ready to be printed and displayed wherever you need a touch of inspiration. 

I’ve carefully paired each quote with lovely photographic images that complement and enhance the message, ensuring they look beautiful and enrich the classroom environment.

Whether you’re looking to create an inspiring display or simply add a bit of positivity to your planning documents, these quotes will make a meaningful impact.

To get you started, I’m offering a free sample set of 10 quotes that you can download and use right away and if you find them as inspiring as I do, you’ll love the full collection of 72 quotes that I’ve put together just for educators like you. 

Want to discover how these quotes can transform your teaching space and mindset?

The Power of Learning Through Play Quotes and Why They Matter in a Play-Based Classroom

Inspirational quotes have a unique way of speaking to our hearts. They often provide just the boost we need to stay motivated, focused, and aligned with our educational philosophy. 

In a play-based classroom, where the learning environment is as much about nurturing creativity and curiosity as it is about teaching academic skills, the right quotes can make all the difference.

For me, these quotes have served as daily reminders of why I do what I do. 

Quotes help us stay connected to our core values and the principles that guide our teaching, especially on those challenging days when things might not go as planned. A well-chosen quote can shift our mindset, bringing positivity and clarity to our thoughts, which in turn reflects how we interact with our students and manage our classroom.

I’ve experienced this firsthand. I remember receiving a compliment from admin about my planning documents. They found them not only well-organised but also commented on how inspirational they were.

The printed quotes I had included throughout my planning added depth and meaning to my planning. They made the documents more engaging and reflective of my passion for play-based learning. It was a simple touch, but it made my planning resonate with those who reviewed it.

Beautiful printed quotes can also transform the classroom atmosphere.

When displayed around the room, they serve as visual reminders for both teachers and students of the values and ideas that underpin learning through play. They help create a space that is not only educational but also inspirational, where both teachers and students feel encouraged to explore, imagine, and learn.

You see inspirational quotes are my secret little tools that can

• help us maintain a positive and focused mindset

• support our teaching philosophy

• contribute to an environment where play and learning come together. 

By thoughtfully including them in your classroom and planning documents, you can enhance the overall learning experience and also stay grounded in the joy of teaching through purposeful play.

Exploring My Inspirational Learning Through Play Quotes

My quotes are rooted in key themes that resonate deeply with the principles of play-based learning and will give you daily inspiration. If you are committed to nurturing creativity, curiosity, and exploration in your classroom, you’ll love them!

Here’s some of the key themes that these quotes celebrate:

Creativity and Imagination

 At the heart of play-based learning is the freedom for children to explore their creativity and imagination. The quotes in this collection remind us of the importance of fostering these qualities, which are crucial for cognitive and emotional development. 

When we encourage creativity, we are teaching children to think outside the box and are helping them to see the endless possibilities in the world around them.

“The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.” – Maria Montessori

“If we could all see the world through the eyes of a child, we would see the magic in everything.” – Akiane Kramarik

Exploration and Curiosity

Exploration is the backbone of play-based learning. It’s through active exploration that children make sense of the world and satisfy their natural curiosity. 

The quotes on exploration and curiosity in this collection serve as reminders of the importance of giving children the time and space to discover, question, and understand their surroundings.

“The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery.” – Mark Van Doren

“Nature is a tool for children to experience not just the wide world, but themselves.” – Stephen Moss

The Value of Childhood Play

We know play is not just a break from learning - it is learning. The value of play is at the core of what we do as early childhood educators. 

These quotes highlight the significance of play in the development of young minds, emphasising that through play, children learn in ways that are joyful, meaningful, and lasting.

“It is a happy talent to know how to play.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

“Play is our brains’ favourite way of learning.” – Diane Ackerman

"Play is the work of the child." - Maria Montessori

Connection with Nature

In a play-based classroom, nature often plays a significant role. Whether it’s through outdoor play, nature-based provocations, or simply bringing elements of nature into the classroom, connecting children with the natural world is a powerful way to enhance their learning. 

The quotes in this theme inspire us to embrace nature as a teacher and to encourage children to explore the world around them with wonder and respect.

“Let nature be your teacher.” – William Wordsworth

“If kids don’t touch and experience nature, why would they want to save it?” – Richard Louv

Listening and Understanding

A core aspect of teaching, especially in a play-based setting, is truly listening to the individual child—not just to their words but to their actions, their play, and their silences. 

These quotes remind us to be attentive, empathetic, and responsive to the children in our care, recognising that their voices, in all forms, are central to their learning journey.

“Listen to what children are saying with and without their words… listen with your heart to what they hope you will hear.” – Lynn Staley

“Children learn what they live.” – Dorothy Law Nolte

Each of these themes captures an essential element of play-based learning and reflects the philosophies that drive our work as early childhood educators. 

Use these quotes in your classroom and planning to enhance your environment and to continually remind yourself and others of the values that make play-based learning so impactful.

Creative Ways to Use Learning Through Play Quotes to Transform Your Classroom Environment

Inspirational quotes can do wonders for creating a warm, engaging, and thoughtful classroom environment.

By strategically placing quotes throughout your classroom and within your teaching documents, you can set the tone for a play-based learning environment that inspires both you and your students. 

Here are some creative ways to make the most of your learning through play quotes.

Use Quotes on the Classroom Door and in Classroom Displays

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to incorporate quotes into your classroom is by displaying them prominently on doors, windows, and walls. 

Having a quote displayed on your classroom door is not only a lovely reminder for you as you arrive at school each morning, but it also helps to inform others about your teaching philosophy. I often see parents and other teachers admiring the quotes on my door, and it gives them a glimpse into the values that guide my approach to teaching.

Consider rotating quotes on your door or window throughout the year to reflect the themes or values you’re focusing on in your classroom. This simple addition can make your classroom environment more inviting and reflective of all the learning that takes place inside.

Enhancing Learning Centres

At investigation areas and learning centres, children are deeply engaged in play and exploration. While the children may not always read the quotes, they do notice the beautiful images that accompany them. 

These quotes serve a different purpose for us as teachers. Sometimes, we need that extra prompt to remind and encourage us to keep going with play-based learning, to reinforce our goals, and to remember why we chose this pedagogy.

Strategically placing quotes at learning centres can subtly influence the environment, making it clear that these areas are designed for creativity, exploration, and discovery. 

They can also serve as conversation starters with parents or visitors who may be curious about the educational value of play.

Add Quotes to Your Teacher Diary and Planning Documents

Planning! We all have these documents.

Try adding some inspirational quotes into your documents to add a personal touch and keep you motivated throughout the year. On the front cover or sprinkled throughout your diary, these quotes help to decorate and inspire.

I usually glue them in at the beginning of the year on random pages throughout my diary, but on difficult weeks, I’ve sometimes added a quote for inspiration. 

You no doubt know, teaching has its fair share of challenging weeks! The quote won’t solve the problems that cause the stress or exhaustion, but it does help to keep your thinking positive.

I often use them on front covers, title pages, and throughout the documents as well. They work particularly well in the Term Menu and Statement of Intent that we plan for our hands-on investigative learning sessions. 

Inspirational Reminders

The primary reason I use educational quotes in my classroom and throughout my planning documents is that they inspire me and remind me of my goals, my philosophy, and my why. 

They help keep me positive, on track, and inspired. 

When you’re surrounded by words that resonate with your educational values, it’s easier to maintain focus and enthusiasm, even on the toughest days.

Enhancing the Classroom Environment

The environment has a huge impact on productivity and well-being. 

I like to work in and create beautiful and inspiring environments. 

The quotes I use play a big part in this. Whether on the door to start and finish the day, within investigation areas, or throughout my planning, these quotes help create an atmosphere that is both calm and motivating.

• The environment can create or reduce stress.

• The environment can influence behaviour and motivation.

• The environment can influence mood.

By enhancing the visual appeal of your classroom with these thoughtfully designed quotes, you’re also fostering an environment where both you and your students can thrive.

Educating Parents and Other Classroom Visitors

Quotes are an excellent way to inform and educate parents and other visitors about your teaching philosophy. 

Many of my learning through play quotes are particularly aligned with the benefits of hands-on, investigative learning so if you are passionate about this approach to teaching like I am, these quotes will align perfectly with your style and serve as great conversation starters. 

They can also help clear up misconceptions others may have regarding play-based learning because they provide insight into the values that guide our classroom practices.

Create a space that reflects and reinforces the values you hold dear as an educator. Whether used for inspiration, motivation, or education, these quotes will make a meaningful addition to your teaching toolkit. 

For some new ideas on how to creatively display quotes in your classroom, check out my blog post on Inspiring Preschool Classroom Quotes for Teachers. 

There, you’ll discover 15 creative ways to display these quotes and learn all the benefits they bring to the learning environment.

The Benefits of Displaying Learning Through Play Quotes

Inspirational quotes serve as powerful tools that enhance both the educational environment and the teaching experience. While we’ve already explored how quotes can be used creatively, it’s important to look at the specific benefits they bring to a play-based classroom:

Reinforcing Educational Goals and Philosophies

In a play-based learning environment, staying connected to your educational philosophy is crucial. Inspirational quotes serve as daily reminders of the values and goals that guide our teaching practice. 

They can anchor our approach, especially during times when the challenges of the classroom may cause you to lose sight of your bigger vision. 

By surrounding yourself with words that reflect your commitment to learning through play, you can maintain a strong focus on what truly matters—nurturing creativity, curiosity, and exploration in your students.

These quotes can also act as subtle nudges throughout the day, encouraging you to stay true to your philosophy, even when external pressures might push you toward more traditional methods. 

They remind you of the joy and value in the work you do. They reinforce the importance of play as a central element of early childhood education and the foundation of learning.

Creating a Thoughtful and Engaging Environment

While we’ve touched on how quotes enhance the classroom aesthetic, it’s worth noting that a thoughtfully designed environment goes beyond just looking nice. 

The presence of quotes adds depth and meaning to the learning space, making it more than just a pretty classroom. They can help to create a place where ideas, values, and philosophies are visibly celebrated. The thoughtful integration of quotes into your classroom environment can make the space more inviting and also more reflective of the educational journey you and your students are on.

The best quotes have the unique ability to transform the atmosphere of a room, making it feel more purposeful and aligned with the learning experiences taking place. 

Whether displayed on the walls, doors, or within learning centres, quotes will help you create an environment that feels intentional, inspiring, and deeply connected to the principles of play-based learning.

Supporting Transparency and Engagement with Parents and Visitors

One of the most valuable benefits of displaying learning through play quotes is their ability to communicate your teaching philosophy to parents and visitors. 

When parents enter my classroom, they are often curious about the methods and values that underpin my teaching. Quotes have provide an immediate and accessible way for them to understand my commitment to play-based learning. 

They often act as conversation starters and offer insights into the educational experiences their children are having.

By openly displaying quotes that align with your philosophy, you can foster a sense of transparency. Parents and visitors can see, at a glance, the principles that guide your teaching. This not only builds trust but also invites them to engage in meaningful discussions about the benefits of play-based learning. It can help clear up any misconceptions and provide reassurance that their children are in an environment where their natural curiosity and creativity are being nurtured.

While inspirational quotes are indeed beautiful and motivating, their true impact lies in how they 

• reinforce your educational goals

• create a thoughtful learning environment

• and support transparency and engagement with parents and visitors. 

When used thoughtfully, quotes become an integral part of your play-based classroom.

FAQs About Learning Through Play Quotes

In this section, we’ll explore some common questions about learning through play and the quotes that capture the essence of this educational approach. 

Whether you’re new to play-based learning or a seasoned educator, these insights will deepen your understanding and appreciation of the role that inspirational quotes can play in your classroom.

1. What is the famous quote about play learning?

One of the most well-known quotes that beautifully captures the essence of learning through play comes from Fred Rogers:

“Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning. But for children, play is serious learning. Play is really the work of childhood.” – Fred Rogers

This quote emphasises that play is not a break from learning but that play is an essential part of how children understand the world. Through play, children engage in hands-on, meaningful experiences that help them develop crucial skills in a natural and engaging way.

2. Why is play good for learning?

Play is fundamental to learning because it allows young children to explore, experiment, and discover at their own pace. 

Play-based learning fosters creativity, problem-solving, and social skills. It helps children develop cognitively, emotionally, and physically, making it a holistic approach to education.

Quotes that reinforce the value of play in learning include:

“Play is our brains’ favourite way of learning.” – Diane Ackerman

“It is a happy talent to know how to play.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

These quotes highlight the natural connection between play and learning, reminding us that when children are given the freedom to play, they are actively engaging in the process of learning.

3. What is Reggio Emilia’s famous quote?

The Reggio Emilia approach to early childhood education is renowned for its emphasis on the child’s ability to express themselves in a multitude of ways. One of the most famous quotes from this philosophy comes from Loris Malaguzzi, the founder of the Reggio Emilia approach:

“The child has a hundred languages, a hundred hands, a hundred thoughts, a hundred ways of thinking, of playing, of speaking.” – Loris Malaguzzi

This quote reflects the belief that children have limitless potential and the ability to communicate and learn through many different forms of expression—whether it’s through art, movement, or storytelling. In a play-based learning environment, this philosophy encourages educators to provide diverse opportunities for children to explore and express their ideas in creative ways.

4. What is learning through play?

Learning through play is an educational approach where children engage in activities that are both enjoyable and educational. It’s based on the idea that play is a natural way for children to explore their environment, develop new skills, and learn about the world around them. 

Through play, children learn to think critically, solve problems, and interact with others—all while having fun.

Here are a few quotes that illustrate the importance of learning through play:

“The goal of early childhood education should be to activate the child’s own natural desire to learn.” – Maria Montessori

“Children learn what they live.” – Dorothy Law Nolte

"Play is the highest expression of human development in childhood, for it alone is the free expression of what is in a child's soul." - Friedrich Froebel

Play is how children learn and grow. By offering an environment where play is encouraged, educators are supporting children’s natural curiosity and desire to learn.

Learning through play is a powerful educational approach that allows children to develop holistically while engaging in activities they naturally enjoy. Quotes associated with this philosophy remind us of the importance of play in the learning process and the potential it has as a pedagogy.

In Conclusion

Inspirational quotes are lovely things to decorate your classroom but more than that - they really are one of the tools you need to create a thoughtful, engaging, and positive learning environment

By using these learning-through-play quotes in your play-based classroom displays, learning centres, and planning documents, you can reinforce your educational philosophy, maintain your focus, and create an atmosphere where both you and your students can thrive in.

You may have noticed that I regularly post inspirational quotes relating to the power of play and teaching kids in my Instagram feed. If you’re looking for more ideas and free printable quotes, be sure to follow My Teaching Cupboard on Instagram for a steady stream of inspiration. Follow me on Instagram here.

To get you started with quotes in the classroom, I’ve put together a free set of 10 quotes about teaching and learning. These quotes are perfect for transforming your learning environment and providing you with some daily teaching inspiration. 

You can print them out, frame or laminate them, and start enhancing your classroom today. You can also tile print the quotes to decrease their size and easily cut them out to paste them throughout your planning documents. However you choose to use them, I’m confident they will inspire, educate, and motivate you.

Download your free set of 10 quotes HERE in the free resource library.

If you’re like me and already an education quotes addict, you might be looking for more inspiration to display in your classroom and planning documents. 

That’s why I’ve designed a full set of 72 of the best teacher quotes I could find, each one styled with beautiful photographic images to complement and enhance the message of the quote. 

These quotes are ready to be printed and used to uplift your teaching space.

You can grab the full set of 72 beautiful and inspiring educational quotes here.

Start transforming your classroom environment today with these inspiring quotes—because a little bit of inspiration can go a long way in making your play-based classroom a place where both you and your students feel motivated, supported, and eager to learn.