Play is more than just fun for children. Play is the way children learn and the significance of this cannot be underestimated. Play is the most important activity a child can do from birth to about 7 or 8 years of age. Play allows children to learn about themselves, about their world and about the people around them. Play can help to develop language understanding, the expression of language and the formation of concepts. Play develops communication skills, social interaction, identity, negotiation, cooperation and thinking skills.
'Springboard To Learning Through Play' outlines the way children play at the different stages of their early years and what they are learning through these experiences. It gives you ideas on how to cater for the diverse ways that your child will experience play. It discusses ways to help your child concentrate on a range of stimulating and enjoyable activities and outlines the important skills your child will be learning through doing so.
Springboard to Learning through Play also offers suggestions on the types of toys that will be valuable for your child as they learn through play. It discusses play ideas for when your child is playing individually, when they are playing with friends and for the times when they want to play just with you! So, enjoy watching and joining in with your child as they play, have fun, learn, grow and develop.