Years of research on children’s learning and development document the many benefits of play for children’s intellectual, social, emotional, physical, spiritual and language development. Children at play are actively involved in creating themes, exploring and establishing environments, solving problems, and developing shared understandings.

Children play in many ways. They play independently, sometimes near each other but with each child engrossed in his/her own work. They engage in what is called “parallel play”. In parallel play, children use each other’s toys and even talk to one another as they play; however, they do not coordinate their play. As children mature, they play cooperatively, organizing roles and scenarios for group play. All kinds of play are valuable. It is often said, “a child’s work is their play.” Play is fun!  It is also serious business that pays big dividends to its eager, young investors!

Adults support children’s play by providing space, opportunity, and materials. We make sure they have time to choose and to become engaged in their own play activities.

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