Page 4 - LESSION 11.pmd

Play and Early Learning

with a sense of insecurity can gain self-respect and respect for others through
play.
(vi) Recreational value Notes

Play activities bring enjoyment and relaxation. It keeps children emotionally
satisfied and prevents boredom.

(vii)Educational value
Children learn a lot during play. Through the use of toys they learn about
colours, sizes, shapes and textures.
You must have noted that the significance of play is manifold as children gather
vast information and knowledge by their own efforts. The experiences build
children’s relation with their surroundings besides inculcating desire and motivation
for learning and knowing about what is around.
Modern research affective neuroscience has uncovered important links between
playing and neurogenesis in the brain. It stresses that children learn best through
an integrated approach combining physical, emotional, cognitive, and social
aspects. Scientists like Sergio Pellis conclude that the experiences we receive

from play change the connections of neurons at the front end of our brain.

11.3 TYPES OF PLAY

There are different opinions by different psychologists about the different nature
of play and how it helps children to develop skills and interest in learning.

Piaget (1945-1962) explains the levels of play as:

z Practice Play: It matches with the sensorimotor stage (0-2 years). Physical
senses play a major role during play. Play at the stage may consist of repeated
body movements, putting object in the mouth, blowing spit bubbles.

z Symbolic Play: It starts when the child is able to use the objects as a symbol
of something (2-7 years). A representational system develops during the
period. Children will engage in make believe games and fantasy role play.

z Games with Rules: This level starts when a child is ready to accept the
complexity and rules imposed during the game (7-11 years). Play becomes
more structured. Rules are developed and play now takes on a social aspect.

Smilansky (1968) divided play skills into four stages:

z Functional Play: It is the first stage in which children play with objects.
Physical movements and motor skills are also included in this stage.

z Constructive Play: At this stage, children use objects to construct something.
It involves sensorimotor activities where children use their creativity. Children
begin to understand their surroundings and begin to initiate what they see.

EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE AND EDUCATION 19