Play is often referred to as the universal language of children. It is the way that children explore the world around them and make sense of their environment.
 
We have this idea that ‘play’ should be an activity that does not require effort or work. However, for children, play is work. It is how they learn; it is how they communicate, and it is how they socialise. Play is made up of activities that result in amusement, that provide social or sensory rewards, and also includes activities that help children determine what they find enjoyable.
 
As parents, we assume that all things ‘play’ will come naturally to us, however this isn’t always the case! Play can be a confusing world for parents, who are already bombarded with so many other tasks.
 
This resource, written by Emily Hanlon, clinical psychologist and Sarah Bolitho, play therapist, will help you break down play in order to best understand how to interact in play with your child.
 
This resource will cover:
 
The importance of play for social and emotional development
Learning and problem solving through play
Stages of play development
How play aligns with brain development
How to set up your environment for play
Toy rotation
How to engage a child in play
Ways to play with a toddler and a child
How to promote independent play
How to foster your child’s imaginative play
 
In addition to this resource, you receive a free copy of the toyroom labels to help categorise and declutter your play space!