Friedrich Froebel's kindergarten philosophy emphasizes what key concept?

Friedrich Froebel's kindergarten philosophy centers around the concept of play as a fundamental vehicle for children's learning and development. He believed that through play, children construct meaning by actively engaging with their environment, using their creativity, and experiencing the joy of learning. This approach places significant value on the natural curiosity of children, allowing them to explore and discover knowledge at their own pace.

Froebel's emphasis on play encourages a holistic development—cognitive, emotional, social, and physical—by fostering a learning environment where children can express themselves freely and make sense of the world around them. This contrasts sharply with more structured or teacher-directed approaches, as it prioritizes child-led exploration over predetermined curricula. It also supports the idea that learning is a dynamic process, deeply intertwined with children's intrinsic motivations and interests.