Play

Question 1

Defintion

Answer 1

Hard to define play, so instead it is best to consider it on a continuum.

Distinguishing between play and exploration;

• Exploration: relatively serious and focused interaction with an object to ask “what it does”
• Play: Follows on from exploration- relaxed activities to consider “what can I do with this object?”

3 criteria to identity play:
* It’s enjoyable, flexible and has some aspect of pretence

Question 2

Physical Play

Answer 2

physical activity often without objects

Developmental stages of physical play:

1) Rhythmical Stereotypes
2) Exercise Play
3) Rough & Tumble Play

Question 3

Construction Play

Answer 3

Play with objects that is usually exploratory and flexible

Question 4

Fantasy Play

Answer 4

• play is self-directed
• Play is directed to another
• Toys becomes agent- relies on realistic objects
• Contextualization- Objects become less realistic
• Imaginary actions with no substitute

Question 5

Language Play

Answer 5

Develop pre-sleep monologues

A time to practice linguistic skills

Question 6

Play Ethos

Answer 6

It is accepted that play is a vital part of development

However, cultures that have less emphasis on play still develop normally, suggesting that although play is not a necessary requirement for a healthy development it does provide benefits of some kind