Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis considered evidence of guided play compared to direct instruction or free play to support children’s learning and development. Interventions from 39 studies were reviewed (published 1977–2020); 17 were included in meta-analysis (N
total = 3893; M
childage = 1–8 years; M
girls 49.8%; M
ethnicity White 41%, African American/Black 28%, Hispanic 19%). Guided play had a greater positive effect than direct instruction on early maths skills (g = 0.24), shape knowledge (g = 0.63), and task switching (g = 0.40); and than free play on spatial vocabulary (g = 0.93). Differences were not identified for other key outcomes. Narrative synthesis highlighted heterogeneity in the conceptualization and implementation of guided play across studies.