Many people think play is just about toys or running around outside, but it goes beyond that. Play is a key part of a child’s development, helping with everything from brain growth to social skills.
According to Lester and Russell (2007):
“children’s play helps build resilience and makes a big contribution to their well-being.”
Play involves any activity that children choose themselves, directed by their own interests. Through play, children can explore their world, discover their own abilities, and build important skills. Play can take many forms – whether active or quiet, alone or with others, indoors or outdoors. It can be creative, educational, or simply for enjoyment.
Child-led play such as playing with blocks, sand and water play, outdoor exploring, arts and crafts, and pretend play, allows children to be in control of their play. They decide what they want to do, how they want to do it, and how long they spend on it. This helps them explore their interest at their own pace and builds their thinking and problem-solving skills.
The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) recognises the right to play, stating that all children have the right to rest, play, and take part in age-appropriate activities. Play is not just an extra activity; it is crucial to a child’s growth, learning, and well-being.
Besides building social skills, play also helps children develop cognitive and emotional skills. When they engage in imaginative or exploratory play, they practise decision-making, problem-solving, and managing emotions. This freedom builds confidence and emotional resilience.
Research shows that learning through play is one of the best ways to teach young children. Whether indoors or outdoors, play-based learning allows children to absorb knowledge naturally, without pressure.
As Alfred Wainwright famously said,
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.”
This mindset is particularly important for early years education, where outdoor play is essential. Natural spaces offer children unique opportunities to connect with nature and explore the physical world in ways that indoor play cannot. Early years practitioners play a crucial role in ensuring children enjoy these valuable outdoor experiences, regardless of the weather.
For children to get the most out of play, it is important they have the time and space to play freely. Parents, carers, or early years practitioners should create environments that encourage children to start, lead, and finish their own play. This freedom helps children build independence, confidence, and problem-solving skills.
