here has been a plethora of research around the importance of play during the early years. Play helps children’s brains develop as they learn to communicate verbally with other children and adults while the brain is making important social connections. During the formative years the brain is developing rapidly. More than 75% of brain is completely developed by the age of three, and approximately 90% by five. Research links creative play with language development as well as physical, cognitive and social development.

Here are some more benefits:

• Play improves children’s speaking and conversation ability.
• Play promotes social and emotional development while playing alone or with others.
• Play helps children learn to share and take turns while developing negotiating skills.
• Play allows children to learn to problem solve as well as use their creativity.
• Play broadens the ability to think from different perspectives.
• Play provides movement which promotes physical health, strength and endurance.
• Play is an excellent way for children to bond with others through interaction and exploration.

Play allows children to be happier, better adjusted and more co-operative with their peers. It is one of the most precious gifts we can give our children.

Evelyn Sullivan, M.Ed.

Director of Early Childhood Education,
North American Division