Time for fun and games!
Why play is so important for children’s well-being…
Play is such an important part of a child’s development. It is where learning happens and is key for healthy and rounded emotional well-being in children. Never has this been more relevant than during this time of challenge and disruption for children the world over.
What type of play?
Any! – with the fewest boundaries and rules.
Opportunities where a child is free to choose what, where, when and with whom they are playing are the most valuable and beneficial. Children need play in their young lives to develop empathy, creativity, collaboration and resilience. It supports social relationships and nurtures a child’s development.
Having a wide range of play available in any early years setting or home environment is key and will give children the most opportunities to explore and learn.
Imaginative play is perfect for encouraging creativity and promoting collaborative role play, with children using props to act out scenarios. This helps prepare them for the wider world and the people they will meet during their lives.
Sensory play is a time to explore and develop all 5 senses and helps promote communication skills as children share their experiences. Engaging in multi-sensory play can help children with learning difficulties access different experiences and grow their curiosity and learning. Physical sensory play can also be beneficial and can help children to regulate confusing feelings.
Social play is working out how to exist with others, developing empathy and resilience as they go. They will be learning some important life skills that will stand them in good stead as they grow up. Encouraging children to play and work together, communicate with each other, negotiate, share and take turns are all key skills to be nurtured and supported.
Creative play comes in many shapes and sizes and allows children to be free of other people’s rules and limitations. This can be in the form of arts and crafts, storytelling, role play, music and dance, construction… it doesn’t matter what form it takes as the act of playing is much more significant to a child’s development than the actual outcome of play.
Play is how children learn to decode the world around them and gain self-understanding, both physically and emotionally. Providing safe and secure play will encourage children to experiment and try new ideas. Play is learning for children, and it is a place where the most important part of a child’s emotional and physical development occurs.
Children can never have too much play in their lives and in fact, neither can adults!
Twoey manufactures an extensive range of early years furniture and play equipment which work well in a wide variety of settings.
Visit www.twoey.co.uk to see the full range of Twoey furniture and resources available online. Alternatively, please email sales@twoey.co.uk or call 016973 49774 / +44 16973 49774 as we would be delighted to answer any queries you may have.
