Play is important work in early childhood. Learn more about how the power of play can help children learn important skills and prepare them for the world. Show While play is often seen as something frivolous that children do to pass the time, play is an incredibly important part of a child’s healthy development. Play is children’s work. Through play, children learn academic skills like math, science, reading, language and literacy. They learn social skills like effective communication, conflict resolution, problem solving and cooperation. Maybe most importantly, they learn about themselves – they get to know their personalities including their likes and dislikes, strengths and interests. Through play, children learn where they fit in in the world. Researcher Mildred Parten identified these six stages of play that children progress through. It’s important to note that each child develops at his or her own pace, so children of the same age may not show exactly the same types of play. Parten’s six stages of play
Michigan State University Extension has tips to help you support your child through these six stages of play.
Just like adults need education and resources to learn how to be good at their jobs, children need the same support to support their job of playing. Along with practical materials like toys and games, children need encouragement, engagement and lots and lots of time to play. For more information about the purpose of play, play and learning, positive discipline, child development, academic success or parenting and life skill development, please visit the Michigan State University Extension website. Also, don’t forget to check out the upcoming articles in “The power of play” series! Other articles in this series
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What is it called when children watch other children play?During onlooker play, kids are building their cognitive skills by learning from the actions of others. They can also work on their social and emotional skills. An observing child has the opportunity to boost their attention and memory.
What is it called when a child looks at other play but not engaged?Spectator/Onlooker Behavior (2 Years)
During this stage a child begins to watch other children playing but does not play with them.
What are the 4 types of play with children?Children learn and develop through different types of play.. Physical play. Physical play can include dancing or ball games. ... . Social play. By playing with others, children learn how to take turns, cooperate and share. ... . Constructive play. ... . Fantasy play. ... . Games with rules.. What are the 4 different types of play?The Four Types of Play. Functional play.. Constructive play.. Games with rules.. Dramatic and Sociodramatic play.. |