In an era where artificial intelligence, hybrid classrooms, and digital devices are part of a child’s everyday life, the simple power of play remains one of the most important tools we have to prepare children for the future.
At Edx Education, we champion play-based learning through the use of open-ended toys—toys that can be used in endless ways, encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and independent thinking. These are the very skills our children will need to navigate a world of constant change, innovation, and digital transformation.
The Role of Play in the Modern Hybrid World
Open-ended toys bridge the gap between the physical and digital world. They allow children to engage their senses, test ideas, collaborate with peers, and reflect independently. This kind of hands-on, minds-on play is a powerful counterbalance to screen-based learning, helping children develop skills that can’t be learned from a device alone.
Let’s explore how some of the world’s most respected early childhood education approaches align with this vision—and how Edx Education’s toys support children to thrive in today’s blended learning landscape.
Montessori Method: Nurturing Independent Thinkers
The Montessori philosophy, founded by Dr. Maria Montessori, supports learning through self-directed play and carefully chosen materials. Montessori children build autonomy, concentration, and a sense of order—essential life skills.
At Edx Education, toys like our Number Rods to Go and Geostix® align beautifully with Montessori’s hands-on learning approach. These tools help children grasp complex maths and spatial concepts through structured, tactile exploration.
Reggio Emilia: Learning Through Expression & Collaboration
In the Reggio Emilia approach, children are viewed as capable, creative learners who express themselves in “a hundred languages”—art, music, storytelling, construction, and more.
Our Rainbow Pebbles® are a natural fit for this model. They encourage artistic expression, symmetry, storytelling, and the development of early maths skills. Reggio-inspired play encourages curiosity, empathy, and communication—skills that future leaders and innovators will need more than ever.
Play-Based Learning: The EYFS and Beyond
The UK’s Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) champions play-based learning to support communication, physical development, and emotional well-being. In this model, play isn’t just an activity—it’s how children learn best.
Toys like MyGears® and Linking Cubes promote STEAM learning through exploration and collaboration. Children build, experiment, problem-solve, and work together—developing not just academic skills but also grit, resilience, and teamwork.
Adapting Traditional Pedagogies for a Digital Future
As AI and digital learning tools become integrated into education, we must adapt traditional pedagogies to meet the demands of a hybrid learning environment. That means combining digital experiences with hands-on play, and offering children opportunities to think laterally, explore ideas, and learn through doing.
At Edx Education, we’re supporting this evolution with:
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Downloadable activity guides for home and classroom use
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The Play, Learn & Create Podcast featuring educators and experts
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Multi-sensory toys that connect physical and cognitive development
The Skills of Tomorrow Start with Play Today
The future belongs to children who can think creatively, collaborate with others, and solve problems confidently. While AI may be the next big wave, it’s human skills—empathy, imagination, adaptability—that will set our children apart.
Play, especially with open-ended toys, fosters these qualities.
Let’s blend the best of Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and play-based learning with the tools of tomorrow. Let’s empower our children to be inventive, resilient, and joyful learners in a world that’s changing fast.
Because at Edx Education, we know that happy children don’t just learn—they play.
Want to Learn More?
Explore our open-ended learning tools:
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Rainbow Pebbles® – Creative, sensory and calming
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Linking Cubes – Hands-on maths mastery
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MyGears® – Engineering, STEAM, and fun in motion
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Number Rods to Go – Montessori-style learning, anywhere
Happy Playing!
Heather Welch, Author of Happy Children Play, General Manager Edx Education UK