Child Development Through Play

Child development through play is severely underestimated by many parents and carers. As adults, we have a clear understanding of "work" and "play". We tend to believe that to learn things, we need to "work" hard at it (which is why some parents and carers consistently produce flashcards, cds, dvds and learning programs).

Childhood play is the truth behind some of the most creative, innovative and successful adults in our world. How to actually "enrich" children at different ages is where much confusion lies.

Child development through play is considered so vitally important to child development experts, that huge textbooks have been published to support this notion. "Play" with or without others gets children to enlarge their mental frameworks, think outside the square, practice language and gain much information about others' opinions and values.

"Play" is the fundamental gateway to learning.

How parents and carers can encourage meaningful play:

	Ensure you set up a relaxed and pressure free environment. When your child feels comfortable and settled, they will engage in some constructive play. If the children are happy and satisfied, then there is little need to change the activities too often.
	Select play materials that can be constructed and manipulated to encourage imaginative use, rather than utilise ready made objects. Read more about brain-building toys.
	Make sure your child is actively interested in the activities.
	While repetition may become boring for us, infants love it and it lays the groundwork for language and social skills.
	Positively encourage children in active exploration and investigation, which build motor and sensory pathways.
	Keep playpen time to a minimum.
	Provide a safe environment to play so you can encourage attempts at new challenges, ie. childproof your home for safety.

Go to Child Development Play Activities for specific examples and lots of ideas on ways to promote creative and meaningful play.