Play is of course about having fun, but it is also an important element of our learning journey. Play encourages children to explore, experiment, and discover which are the foundations for their social, emotional, and physical development. Play; even from a very early age, provides toddlers with the practical and essential life skills of problem-solving, sharing, communication, creativity, and cooperation whilst stimulating their imagination, ingenuity, and curiosity; but within a safe and enjoyable setting. Through play, children learn to navigate social interactions, build resilience, and develop a sense of independence.
At Sneakers Nurseries we embrace with open arms any form of play and believe it is the way for young children to learn. We are educators and take that role extremely seriously and our primary goal is to encourage and introduce stimulating and playful environments within our nurseries that nurture their creativity, their curiosity, and engagement in our little learners. Within this blog we delve into the various forms of play, the magic play creates as well as the benefits it has for your toddler’s developmental growth and overall well-being.
The Different Forms of Play and their Benefits
Different forms of play offer a number of developmental, holistic, and cognitive developmental benefits; as well as having a key role in your toddler’s mental and physical wellbeing.
Sensory play is about touch, sight, smell, hearing, and taste. It allows children to explore; use their imagination and make sense of their world and what is around them in their own way. It introduces challenges that require them to solve problems and navigate through the play. Whether they are building, squishing Play-Doh, moulding mud, or exploring different textures; it is a great way to develop self-expression and use their brains creatively; learning to explore and make sense of the world around them. Sensory play enhances their cognitive growth by encouraging critical thinking and improving their ability to focus and concentrate.
Imaginative play is like sensory play as it nurtures creativity and problem-solving as toddlers engage in pretend scenarios and role-playing. This type of play is fantastic for language and communication development as children share ideas and stories and express themselves through imaginative play scenarios. Additionally, imaginative play helps children understand different perspectives and develop empathy as they take on various roles and characters. Through these activities, children also learn to negotiate, collaborate, and resolve conflicts, which are essential social skills.
Outdoor play is a firm favourite at Sneakers Nurseries; promoting physical health and gross motor skills as children run, climb, and explore outdoor environments. Playing outside in natural elements is a great sensory play adventure as well as building resilience, and adaptability and builds their inquisitive nature as it offers play with different textures, the ability to hear different natural sounds, experience different weathers and environments, see and be around wildlife, and touch and feel the outdoors; encouraging exploration and creativity. When welcomed with an open outdoor space; watching them use their imagination, run free, experience new textures and sounds, climb, and go on adventures in the fresh air is just magical.
Messy play is essential for a child’s development. Activities like finger painting, sand, and water play, and the use of different textures and materials are great tools to develop their fine motor skills; as well as hand-eye coordination and of course sensory play. Like the other forms of play we have talked about; messy play also is great for their creativity, cognitive development, and emotional development as it provides them with a safe and fun way to express themselves freely; testing new and exciting ways to create and develop. Additionally, messy play encourages risk-taking and experimentation, which are crucial for building confidence and problem-solving abilities.
Welcome to Sneakers Nurseries
We know that every child is a unique individual, and our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to cater to their needs and interests. At Sneakers Nurseries, we are dedicated to creating an environment where children feel valued, respected, and inspired. Play is power and we create an environment where we nurture a love of learning through play; that will stay with them through their life journey. We offer two unique nursery settings located in Redditch and Studley for all baby, toddler, and preschool children to flourish and shine. Contact us at Lodge Park in Redditch on 01527 523 279 or at Sneakers Nurseries in Studley on 01527 850 330.
