Play is a Child's Work

It's that time of year.  School is starting.  Whether your child is school-aged or not, it may start you thinking about academics and 'being ready' when it is time.  The following websites give good reminders of the power of play.  Play is the work of childhood and does much in getting children ready for later success.

Don't miss the article by Joan Almon which discusses the "steady decline in play" which she has witnessed over the past 30 years in early childhood education.

Alot of what you will find in the following articles is research-based.  If that isn't your cup of tea, jump down to a terrific site which has loads of ideas about play activities.  Just remember to allow for unstructured playtime as well!

 

Why Play is So Important by BabyCenter.com

Play and early Childhood Development by Kronkosky Charitable Foundation

The Vital Role of Play in Early Childhood Education by Joan Almon

The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Strong Parent Child Bonds by American Pediatrics Association

Free Play in Early Childhood by Play England

 

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