Unit 3.1: Understand the value of play in Early Years

Understand the role of play

• 1.1 Explain the innate drive for children to play
• 1.2 Analyse how play is necessary for the development of children

Understand children’s rights in relation to play

• 2.1 Identify the rights of children in relation to play as detailed in the ‘UN Convention on the Rights of the Child’
• 2.2 Explain how settings meet the right for children to play

Understand play at different stages of children’s development

• 3.1 Explain the characteristics of: child-initiated play, adult-led play
• 3.2 Identify how children’s play needs and preferences change in relation to their stage of development

Understand different types of play for all children

• 4.1 Describe benefits of: physical play, creative play, imaginative play, sensory play
• 4.2 Explain the principles of heuristic play
• 4.3 Evaluate resources for: physical play, creative play, imaginative play, sensory play, heuristic play

Understand inclusive play practice

• 5.1 Summarise inclusive play practice in relation to current frameworks
• 5.2 Analyse how play supports the interests and abilities of children