The Play Studio is a professional learning resource that helps early childhood educators practice the art of teaching through dramatic play. Through classroom videos and practical resources, it makes teachers’ pedagogical work in and around dramatic play visible, illustrating a repertoire of roles and strategies that support rich, purposeful play experiences. The Play Studio framework is grounded in the understanding that play is not separate from learning but rather a social and symbolic activity through which children develop new understandings and ways of thinking.
Guided dramatic play emphasizes the teacher’s intentional role in supporting children’s learning while preserving the defining characteristics of play, including child choice, intrinsic motivation, and imagination. Because guided play depends on responsive, in-the-moment pedagogical decisions, teachers benefit from a flexible repertoire of roles and strategies. The Play Studio framework identifies teacher roles and illustrates the strategies associated with each, including Co-Planner, Onlooker, Documenter, Stage Manager, Co-Player, Play Leader, Play Director, Catalyst for Reflection, and Co-Narrator. Understanding when and how to move among these roles helps teachers make thoughtful pedagogical decisions that enrich children’s play and deepen opportunities for thinking, communication, and learning.
Joins the play by following the children’s lead from within the imaginary scenario (taking on an equal or subordinate role).
Guides and extends the play from within the imaginary scenario (taking on a predominant role).
Helps children reflect on, evaluate, and plan for future play.
Preschool for Creative Learning. (2026). Play Studio for Teachers [Video learning library]. University of South Florida. https://playstudioforteachers.org/
Preschool for Creative Learning. (2026). [Title of video] [Video]. Play Studio for Teachers, University of South Florida. [URL]
Play Studio for Teachers content is free to use for educational and non-commercial purposes, provided you give appropriate attribution to the USF Preschool for Creative Learning. This includes sharing materials with colleagues, using them in professional learning, and referencing them in your own teaching practice.
For any other use (including commercial use, redistribution at scale, or adaptation), please contact the team first so we can support your request and confirm appropriate permissions.
Play Studio for Teachers is made possible through the generous support of the Caplan Foundation for Early Childhood. We are grateful for their commitment to advancing early childhood education and the power of play.
