All children are born with the desire and the ability to learn. Children learn best when the learning is self-initiated, arising from their own curiosity and interests, rather than imposed on them. Concept formation arises naturally out of concrete experiences. Play is the primary mode of learning during the first eight to ten years. Play helps children work through traumatic experiences.
Appropriate stimulation is important.
A rich environment, with a variety of manipulative materials, facilitates children's learning. Children also benefit by being exposed to stories, books, people, places, ideas, music, games, and real-life activities. The best toys are the ones that inspire children to imagine, build, create, and think. Earlier is not necessarily better. Each child develops at his or her own rate.