Play
Play in early childhood is an essential seed which bears fruit over the entire lifetime. IPPA, the Early Childhood Organisation, embraces the concept that play is a most powerful learning vehicle for young children. Early childhood settings should be carefully designed to offer children a wide variety of developmentally appropriate experiences. It may look like "just play" to the casual observer, but to the child, play is serious business; it is the way children learn what they need to know in order to take their place as creative, responsible adults in our complex society. Play is the most important thing a young child can do. Play is not only the essence of a happy childhood, it is the way children learn - about their bodies, their environment, ideas, events and the people and objects around them.
The following are just some of the things children learn while they're playing:
- large muscle skills develop as children reach, grasp, crawl, run, climb, skip and balance
- hand-eye coordination improves as the child handles objects in play
- language expands as a child communicates on increasingly mature levels, beginning with coo and babble games and progressing to such levels as making-up stories, telling jokes and communicating thoughts and feelings
- social skills grow through play experiences as the child moves from enjoying simple contact with another person to learning to cooperate, take turns and even to play by the rules
- cognitive skills advance as a result of problem solving with play materials, ideas, events and people. This begins in infancy when the baby makes the startling discovery that his action causes a reaction, such as when a shaken rattle produces a sound. Stimulating play environments facilitate progress to higher levels of thought throughout childhood.
- emotional development is fostered through positive play experiences that allow children to feel successful and capable. Sharing positive play experiences forges strong bonds between adult and child from the earliest stages of infancy through childhood.
Links and Resources
Border Counties Childcare Network
(BCCN) has published a 'PLAY FILE' that includes sections on Dramatic Play, Water Play, Dough & Clay, Table Top Play, Small World Play and Creative Play.
DESSA
DESSA will pursue the active involvement and full participation of people with disabilities in society by delivering strategic supports to Community Development Projects, Family Resource Centers, and Core Funded Groups.
IPPA, the Early Childhood Organisation
IPPA, the Early Childhood Organisation, embraces the concept that play is a most powerful learning vehicle for young children. Early childhood settings should be carefully designed to offer children a wide variety of developmentally appropriate experiences.
Súgradh
Súgradh is a registered charity promoting the child's right to play in Ireland. Check this website for information on setting up a playground or play scheme or just for more information on play.