The Importance of Play to Children's Development - Essay Example

Play provides children with opportunities to engage in social interaction with their family and peers, help to develop their language, social skills, and ability to solve problems and help them function as a part of a larger group. Play is an essential part of development in children as it ensures that a child’s mind is constantly engaged, is aware of others around and active in learning through observation. Engagement in both the real and imagined social and physical world provides children with the chance to experience emotional and bodily sensations (Lester & Russell, 2008).

Play can be seen as an instrument that builds and unique designs the brain's structures when considering its relationship to the body and the environment rather than a way of learning specific skills(Lester & Russell, 2008). Through this engagement with the immediately real and the imagined impacts on the development of the brain and affects the way the genes are expressed. Play is an essential tool for children to make sense of their world and identify their niche.The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children acknowledges the importance of play in the lives of children and categorizes it as a significant right for every child (International Play Association, n.d.).

Play provides numerous opportunities for the children to interact as learners and it also helps stimulate an inclusive learning environment. Through play the child is socialized into the society; they learn about responsibilities and practice their roles as a part of a learning community. By supporting children’s play, the teachers can provide an environment that encourages holistic learning. Responsibilities and the Adult roles are significant in initiating the children to play and learn through it and maintain an environment that boosts children confidence and invites their positive self-image.

Play also plays an important part in extending the positive relationship with other members engaging in the play (Saskatchewan Ministry of Education, 2010).