Parenthood is rewarding, but it also comes with endless decisions. One big question many parents face is whether to send their toddlers to play school. Some feel pressured by society — as if enrolling their child is the mark of “good parenting.” Others believe play schools are essential for building early learning, social skills, and confidence.
But are they truly necessary for every child, or is it just another modern parenting trend?
In the last decade, play schools and preschools have grown rapidly in India. Experts say this is partly because parents are more aware than ever about child development. Research shows that nearly 90% of brain growth happens before age five. That’s why educators believe these early years are crucial for building a child’s social, emotional, and intellectual foundation.
Play schools are designed to provide this. Instead of focusing on exams or academics, they aim to teach through play. Children get a chance to explore, ask questions, solve problems, and develop independence. They also learn how to share, take turns, and make friends — skills that prepare them for formal schooling later.
Psychologists add that play schools help children regulate emotions, improve motor skills, and build resilience. For working parents, they also provide a safe, structured environment where kids are cared for while parents manage jobs and responsibilities.
Many parents see play school as an investment in their child’s future. Mom influencers like Kanika Bhatia say it gave their children confidence, independence, and smoother transitions to regular school. Others, like Arpita Mukherjee, agree early education is valuable — but also point out that peer pressure has made sending kids to play school almost compulsory in some circles.
Despite the benefits, play schools are not without problems. A major concern is safety. Disturbing incidents at some centres — from neglect to abuse — have left parents shaken. Schools with poor staff training, overcrowded classrooms, or weak security measures can do more harm than good.
Another challenge is quality. Not all play schools follow evidence-based curriculums or hire well-trained teachers. Some focus more on flashy infrastructure to attract parents rather than providing genuine learning. Large class sizes, limited space, and untrained staff can prevent children from getting the attention they need.
Then there’s the cost. In cities, play schools can be surprisingly expensive — often several thousand rupees a month for just a few hours of guided play. While some parents see this as a worthwhile investment, others feel the fees are too high for what is essentially basic early education.
Experts argue that quality education requires investment in safe infrastructure, teacher training, and child-friendly spaces. But for many families, the price feels overwhelming. Some parents choose alternatives, like care from grandparents, domestic help, or small peer groups at home. These options may provide love and safety, but they often lack structured learning and social exposure.
Parents also share mixed experiences. Some say play school boosted their child’s growth, while others feel it was unnecessary or even harmful if the child wasn’t ready. Timing also matters — starting too early can cause stress, while waiting until age three for kindergarten may be a better fit for some children.
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So, are play schools worth it? Experts say yes — but only if chosen wisely. The right play school focuses on nurturing curiosity, independence, and joy in learning, not just academics or appearances.
When picking a school, parents should look for:
Strong safety measures (CCTV, background-checked staff, safe premises)
Trained, caring teachers with good teacher-child ratios
A play-based, child-friendly curriculum
Clean and spacious classrooms
A warm emotional environment where kids feel happy and secure
Transparency and regular parent-teacher communication
Cost should be balanced with value. Higher fees don’t always guarantee quality, so it’s important to check reviews, visit the school, and talk to other parents before deciding.
At the same time, parents should remember that play school is not the only path. Spending the first few years at home, learning through everyday activities, and bonding with family can also give children a strong foundation. What matters most is the child’s comfort, readiness, and the family’s situation.
In the end, play schools can be helpful — but they should not be seen as compulsory. Parents should choose based on their child’s needs, not just social expectations. Childhood is about curiosity, play, and love, and that can be nurtured both inside and outside the classroom.
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