Why play?

The magic of play begins in a child’s mind. Where a branch turns into a magic wand or a towel becomes the cape of a superhero. Children’s imagination transforms the world to one where anything is possible. It taps them into creativity which will translate later into music, art and writing. Play also establishes important skills as the brain develops, giving children the ability to try new things, to take chances, make mistakes and try again. What they learn during play in the toddler years will help lay the foundation for cultivating lifelong learners.

If parents/teachers/caregivers, step back and watch the beauty of open ended play unfold by allowing the child to play by themselves and with others in a safe environment, play naturally becomes a learning experience for the child. Adults are there to provide support and to guide the child if needed. This will allow for executive functions to develop such as, taking initiative, carry out transactions, communicating, navigating and problem solving through situations, planning, flexibility, persistence, rules and managing emotions which are all needed for academic and lifelong success. Play demonstrates to our children that they have an impact on the environment, they can make things happen.

The beauty of play is that it’s natural to children and when given the correct environment, much can flourish as they learn about themselves and the beautiful world around them.