The Science of Play: How Toddlers Build Executive Function Through Simple Games

When we think of toddlers at play, we often picture blocks, sorting games, and towers that tumble down. These moments may look simple, but they are also important for development. Play is a valuable context for early learning, including growth in executive function—mental skills such as working memory, inhibitory control (self-control), and cognitive flexibility (flexible thinking). These skills support learning, problem-solving, and everyday behavior.

Play gives toddlers natural chances to practice these abilities. Stacking blocks can involve planning, patience, and persistence: a child may try to remember where a block should go, pause before knocking a tower down, and adjust when it collapses. Sorting games build attention and categorization, and when children switch from sorting by color to sorting by shape, they practice cognitive flexibility. Turn-taking and imaginative play also support self-regulation by helping children practice waiting, following rules, and responding to others.

Play is especially valuable in bilingual environments because it creates a natural, low-pressure setting for children to hear and use more than one language. During songs, pretend play, and everyday games, children can practice vocabulary, listening, and social communication with caregivers and peers. Executive function supports this process by helping children use attention, memory, and flexible language choices in different situations. Although research on a broad “bilingual advantage” in executive function is mixed and still debated, play remains a strong way to support both language development and broader cognitive skills at the same time.

Research in early childhood development highlights the importance of giving toddlers opportunities to explore and experiment. Parents and educators can view play not as a distraction from learning, but as a meaningful part of it. Through play, children practice attention, memory, self-regulation, communication, and problem-solving in engaging, developmentally appropriate ways.

In conclusion, everyday games like stacking blocks, sorting colors, singing songs, and imaginative play can support early cognitive and social development, including skills related to executive function. For bilingual children, play also provides meaningful opportunities to use both languages in real interactions. These early experiences help build foundations for later learning, relationships, and everyday life.