Families and Playgroups

Families and Playgroups

Conceptual PlayWorlds help support children learn about STEM through play. They have been developed by Laureate Professor Marilyn Fleer, one of the world’s leading experts in early childhood education.

Our PlayWorlds for families are fun, engaging and designed to leave children with a love of learning. Our research has shown they

  • Build a strong foundation for children to start school
  • Boost confidence in parents to play and talk about STEM
  • Support imagination, creative and problem-solving skills

Create a PlayWorld

Our Conceptual PlayWorlds for Parents bring together imagination and play to solve problems and support your children to develop STEM concepts. This happens through the introduction of language and specific STEM ideas like measurement or distance. The PlayWorlds also encourage the development of 21st century skills like critical and creative thinking, as well as empathy for the characters.

Follow our step-by-step guide and create an imaginary Conceptual PlayWorld at your home or a playgroup.

Start creating your own PlayWorld

PlayWords in action

See some examples of Conceptual PlayWorlds that we've trialled with families and playgroups.

See more PlayWorlds in action

Research behind the model

The Conceptual PlayWorld model is part of a larger five-year research project called the Monash PlayLab.

The Monash PlayLab project is led by Monash Laureate Professor Marilyn Fleer. It is supported by a five-year $3.2 million Laureate Fellowship from the Australian Research Council.

Learn more about our research

Help us create new Conceptual PlayWorlds, and to learn in the process