EXPLORANDO O APRENDIZADO ATRAVÉS DO BRINCAR HEURÍSTICO NA EDUCAÇÃO INFANTIL EM NAVIRAÍ - MS

Abstract

This research, titled "Exploring Learning through Heuristic Play in Early Childhood Education in Naviraí, Mato Grosso do Sul," investigated the relevance of heuristic play as a pedagogical strategy for child development. Conducted at an early childhood education institution in Naviraí, Mato Grosso do Sul, the qualitative research was part of a final project and aimed to analyze how free play with unstructured materials contributes to the development of essential skills in children. The theoretical framework was based on authors such as Kishimoto (2010), who understands play as the language of childhood, and the BNCC (Brasil, 2018), which recognizes it as a structuring axis of early childhood education. The methodology included participant observation and an intervention with kindergarten and kindergarten classes. During the investigation, it was observed that the use of simple materials, such as boxes and fabrics, stimulated the creation of symbolic plots, cooperation, and the redefinition of objects. It became clear that the educator's sensitive mediation—who observes, listens, and provokes without interfering—is essential to making play a meaningful learning experience. The conclusion is that heuristic play strengthens children's autonomy, creativity, and holistic development, in addition to enhancing their capacity for expression and knowledge construction.