We all know children love to play, and we know that play is important for their development. But why is play such a crucial ingredient to the childhood experience? And how do we offer children opportunities for play that support their development? Read on to find out more about how you can support your child’s play at home.
Play is a rare moment in young children’s lives where they can be completely in control of what is happening, and they can express their thoughts and feelings without judgement, without explanation and in complete freedom. They can also experience joy and the freedom to enjoy the process and the journey they are embarking on. This is perhaps why sometimes children are often so keen to play out of adult sight - they want this to be about them and their inner worlds. Play is also where children make connections in their learning, make decisions, develop the use of symbols and language, learn social skills, and learn how to problem-solve.
There are of course many different types of play. Play outside often looks different to play that takes place indoors. In some types of play children use their imagination to create the play experience, at other times they use props, and sometimes play can be more structured and involve building blocks, puzzles or even board games.
It is helpful for children to have the opportunity to experience all of these different types of play. Board games may not always offer much in the way of imaginative play but they do offer the chance for children to learn about turn taking and waiting - both elements of inhibitory control that are useful for learning about self-control.
At the other end of the scale, imaginative play enables children to explore their experiences, their observations, their thoughts and their emotions. Sometimes we see children acting out events they have seen or experienced at home or nursery as a way of processing and understanding it.
How can we make sure children have what they need to create their play experiences? They need us to create space to play (it doesn't have to be big!), resources they can turn into props, and sometimes, people they can involve in their play so it can become collaborative and social.
Here are some ideas for resources to promote play:
A good old fashioned cardboard box! Boxes can be painted, turned into dens, hidden in, turned into football goals, made into a doll house or car garage…the ideas are limitless.
Scarves and blankets can be used for imaginative play, den building, dancing, role play, dressing up.again the list is almost endless!
Everyday items such as kitchen utensils, boxes and stationary items can all be utilised as props for play, especially for role play for older toddlers and pre-school age children.
Sticks, leaves, grass, pebbles and shells can all turn into props for play. Children can role play, observe and even create natural art using the things they discover in the natural world.
A final tip - rather than telling your child what to create, ask them for their ideas and help them develop their critical thinking skills by brainstorming together what they want to do, what they will need and how they will go about achieving it. Empower them to be as independent in the process as possible. This will boost their self-esteem, confidence, and creativity.