Many early childhood professionals (teachers, administrators, researchers) are familiar with the popular adage, “Young children learn best through play.” However, advocates for play continue to defend its critical role in promoting young children’s social emotional, language and cognitive development among skeptics (e.g., policy makers, politicians) who push more formal learning and academic rigor in the preschool and kindergarten classroom. Dr. Brian Mowry, co-author of Rigorous DAP in the Early Years: From Theory to Practice (2018), will present a theoretical framework based on the work of Lev Vygotsky for understanding play as the “highest level of preschool development” (Vygotsky, 1978, p. 102). Specifically, participants will discuss how pretend play supports oral language and literacy and the role of construction play and games in enhancing formal mathematical knowledge. Dr. Mowry will also share strategies and practical tips on supporting and scaffolding play in the preschool classroom.