What is play in early childhood


Research have always cared of children playing in various ages and environments, but all of them insure that playing is important for children's development. not only for their bodies, but also their minds and emotions.

For most of us, the times we spent on playground during our childhood will never be forgetten, it is a joyful memories we will ever remember. World within its walls used to be a very different place, most children won't left it unless their parents ask them to do. Preschoolers have created to play, they practice playing like we practice our works, and so is the play itself, it has created for them, to joy them, to please them, and to develop them. Preschool is an important part of child's life, he will start his education at this stage, children are considered to be preschool ready when they become three years old.



There are different levels of playing through over children's childhood, for the early childhood. These levels are:

 From birth to three months: children at this age are often seen moving their legs or hands randomly with no definitive purpose. This act is considered as an initial form of playing.

From 3 months to year and a half: children like to play on their own. They often do not notice other children around them. this kind of playing is very common in children when they start to develop limited social, cognitive and physical skills. other children may like to watch and observe those surrounding him, and this helps them in learning the language and relating themselves to others.

From year and a half to 2 years: children learn to play with other children, this forms an important part of child's relations and communication skills development as he learns sharing and recognizing what belongs to him and what belongs to others.

Preschoolers (3 to 4 years): they will start to get interested in other children more than toys. Through association play children learn what can they do with others and what should not they do, in addition to sharing and cooperation meanings, during developing their language skills. Others may be more interested with constructive play, Expressive and imagination play. through them children will learn what works and what does not, just by playing with objects and blocks.

Through imaginative play, children express themselves by many ways. and they will be encouraged to imagine things beyond their understanding, it can be about dinosaurs or dragons, or can be about the adults around them. This form of play encourages expression and dream and help them understand society member's roles.

Playing helps children to gain knowledge, stimulate them to discover, think, remember and react. Puzzles and blocks games increase problem solving skills, play helps children to discover the world around them and learn them skills that will develop their self-confidence. Parents should make sure that their children have a playground consisted of different types of toys and games. But shouldn't forgetthat safety comes first whether in preschool, park or home, so make sure of your children's safety through their growing.