Parents-

Have you ever heard someone remark about an early childhood program-even ours, perhaps-"All the children do is play"? At good early childhood programs there is a lot of play-and there should be! 

Years of research on children's learning and development documents the many benefits of play for children's intellectual, social, emotional, physical, and language development.  Children at play are actively involved in creating themes, exploring and establishing environments, solving problems and developing shared understanding. 

Children play in many ways. They play independently, sometimes near each other but with each child engrossed in his own activity.  They engage in what is called "parallel play," perhaps using each other's toys and even talking but not coordinating their play.  They also play cooperatively, organizing roles and scenarios for group play.  As they get older, children are more capable of cooperative, coordinated play.  But all kinds of play are valuable.

As kids play with each other, they learn to see other children's points of view and begin to be more empathetic and caring.  They come to understand customs and rules of their culture and to appreciate those of others.  They learn to use language in new ways to describe their play and to interact with others.  And in play, children develop their muscles and coordination. 

Adults support children's play by providing space, opportunity and materials.  We set up areas where children can play without fear of damaging furniture or injuring themselves.  We make sure that they have the time to choose and to become engaged in their own play activities.  And when we provide them with simple, interesting materials-no newfangled, expensive gadgets required-the children take it from there. 

Play is fun.  But it is also serious business that pays big dividends to its eager young investors!  At the Weekday Program, we try to encourage children's play, exploration and self-discovery whenever possible. Often the most valuable part of our day is spent in long blocks of free play where children learn how to get along with the people around them and manipulate materials in an environment that is just for them.  We take it as a compliment when you notice all the play time we provide and eagerly respond, "of course they play all day-that's what they are supposed to do!"

Donna