Role of Play in Child Development

By: Neelima

Is an activity for amusement

Play

Intrinsically motivated

Pleasurable

Actively engaged

Play

Through play, they learn about themselves and the world around

them. What all they see, hear, and feel makes sense to them.

Their brains and bodies are ready to learn.

(Sensory Integration International 1991)

Play

Play Develops

Physical Strength

Representational

skills and concept

development

Creativity In Child

Divergent Thinking

Convergent Thinking

Logical classification

– Sort by features

– Putting things away by

shape and size

Spatial Concepts

Language Development

through

Social Interactions

Cooperation and Sharing

Art to resolve conflicts

How to get along with each other

Taking Turns

To Be Patient

Play helps children understand Concepts of fairness and competition.

Cognitive Development Through Play

• Children are able to actively explore materials and environments

• Develop sense of accomplishment and independence

• Examples:

-Running fingers through sand or water

Exploratory Play

• Child uses objects or materials to create a representation of something

• Symbolic thinking and elements of pretend

• Hands on experiences• Examples:

-building a fort with blocks-building a sand castle

Constructive Play

• Child uses objects, actions, and language to create imaginary roles and situations• Connection between real and pretend• Emotional outlet, creativity development• Examples:

– Enacting a story/drama– Puppets

Dramatic Play

Social Development Through Play

• Independent activities• Early form of play• Teaches children to be creative and amuse themselves• Development of independence• Examples

-Puzzles-Lining up toys-Dolls

Solitary Play

• Children use similar toys or engage in similar activities but do not play together

• Child will notice what other child is doing and may mimic what they see

• Can help child understand that everyone is different and everyone has their own ideas and way of doing things

Parallel Play

• Children engaging in similar, somewhat organized activity

• May talk about what they are doing, share toys and ask questions

• Teaches child to share and ask questions

Associate Play

• Two or more children interacting with one another toward a common purpose

• Different roles and responsibilities, contributions made by all

• Child learns to work together, share roles, compromise, cooperate, etc.

Cooperative Play

• Muscular development

• Control of large muscles, fine motor skills

• Eye-hand coordination

• Problem solving and creative thinking

• Therapeutic value

• Opportunities for self talk

• Development of self-confidence

• Learning cooperation and values

Free Play

Thanks!