The framework
The ecology of play
Play is where children grow, explore and connect. The Ecology of Play framework helps create spaces that empower children and celebrate their potential.
Three pillars
Like a seed needs sun, soil and water, children’s play needs three things to flourish.
Unstructured time
With children spending hours a day on screens, they need time to simply be — to explore and create independently, without every moment managed.
Freedom to choose
Independent decision-making builds confidence and resilience. Children need the freedom to make choices, even when those choices lead to failure.
Endless possibilities
Environments should inspire imagination rather than dictate a single use — like a cardboard box that becomes a pirate ship, a cave or a lemonade stand.
When play thrives, so do children.
Three core principles
The framework is built on observation, diversity and resilience.
Observation
Observation means noticing how the environment activates and supports a child’s inquiry.
Diversity
Diversity ensures there’s something for every child, sparking creativity through inclusion.
Resilience
Resilience is about spaces that grow and adapt, just like the kids who play in them.
Three ideas for looking at play
Ecology of Play looks at play through three interconnected systems.
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The inner system
Focusing on each child’s unique growth.
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The microsystem
Where daily interactions with the environment shape experiences.
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The outer system
Connecting play to culture, community and big-picture values.
Frequently asked questions
What are the three pillars of the Ecology of Play?
The three pillars of the Ecology of Play are unstructured time, freedom to choose and endless possibilities. Children need time to simply be, the freedom to make their own choices — even when those choices lead to failure — and environments that inspire imagination rather than dictate a single use.
What are the three systems in the Ecology of Play framework?
The Ecology of Play framework looks at play through three systems: the inner system, the microsystem and the outer system. The inner system focuses on each child’s unique growth, the microsystem is where daily interactions with the environment shape experiences, and the outer system connects play to culture, community and big-picture values.
Why was Ecology of Play created?
Ecology of Play was created because play is more than just fun — it’s where children grow, explore and connect. The framework helps create spaces that empower children, with something for every child to grow with.