The play way method is the cornerstone of naturalist educational philosophy. Naturalists (Rousseau, Froebel, Pestalozzi, Montessori) believe children learn best through natural, spontaneous, self-directed play rather than formal instruction. Play is the child's natural activity, and learning occurs most authentically when embedded in play. Froebel's kindergarten and Montessori's materials both exemplify the play-way approach to teaching young learners in harmony with nature.