Play

Play lets children make sense of the world and develop PIES. Children plau instinctively. Structured play is organised by others. Spontaneous play happens on the spur of the moment, it is initiated by the child and there is not adult interference.

Children who are denied access to a range of stimulating play actvities have play malnourishment. Possible consequences of being play malnourished are poor neurological development, more violent, anti social, aggressice behaviour and being un fit and obese. 

• Solitary Play (0 to 2 years) - Children play alone
• Parallel Play (2 years) - Children play alongside, but not with each other
• Looking on Play (3 years) - Children just watch others, but don't join in
• Joining - in Play (3 years) - Children do the same activity, but in their own way.
• Cooperative Play (3+ years) - Children play together

• In creative play, children use their imaginations
• Imaginative play is also called pretend, role, fantasy and superhero play. Children present to be characters and make up games and scenarios.
• In physical play the body is used in an active way so spakce is need. It often takes place outdoors or indoors.
• Manipulative ay dvelops hand eye coordination and fine motor skills
• Discovery play uses the senses. Sand/water play lets scientific concepts be investigated.
• Social Play helps children learn to cooperate, share and take turns, understand rules and make friends.