Introduction

Outline

From an early age, play is important to a child's development and learning. It isn't just physical. It can involve cognitive, imaginative, creative, emotional and social aspects. It is the main way most children express their impulse to explore, experiment and understand. Children of all ages play.

(Dobson, 2004, p.8)

This unit gives you the opportunity to reflect on the place of play in early years and primary curricula. You will consider what play is and explore your values and beliefs concerning the role of play in children's learning.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this unit you will have:

examined the place play has in the curriculum framework/guidance or documents most relevant to your setting;
considered various definitions of play;
explored ideas about the value of play and adults' attitudes towards play;
considered play in your setting and attempted to access children's perceptions of play;
explored issues such as gender and play and children's right to play.