This guide will help you answer 3.2 Identify how children’s play needs and preferences change in relation to their stage of development.
Understanding how children’s play needs and preferences change as they develop is crucial for early years practitioners. Play is the main way children learn about the world, develop their skills, and express themselves. As they grow, their play needs and preferences evolve, reflecting changes in their cognitive, physical, social, and emotional development.
Birth to 6 Months Stage
Characteristics of Play:
- Infants explore their environment through sensory play.
- They rely heavily on their senses – sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell.
Play Needs:
- Safe, sensory-rich environments.
- Toys and activities that stimulate their senses, such as brightly coloured objects, soft music, and textured toys.
Play Preferences:
- Simple, interactive activities like peek-a-boo.
- Musical toys and soft rattles.
6 to 12 Months Stage
Characteristics of Play:
- Babies begin to gain more control over their movements.
- They start to explore objects more deeply by banging, throwing, or shaking them.
Play Needs:
- Safe spaces for exploration.
- Toys that can be grabbed, squeezed, and manipulated.
Play Preferences:
- Stacking blocks.
- Soft, stuffed animals.
- Push-and-pull toys.
1 to 2 Years Stage
Characteristics of Play:
- Toddlers become more mobile; they start to walk, run, and climb.
- They develop an interest in cause-and-effect activities.
Play Needs:
- Opportunities for physical play.
- Toys and activities that build fine and gross motor skills.
Play Preferences:
- Push toys, ride-on toys.
- Simple puzzles and shape sorters.
- Books with large pictures and simple text.
2 to 3 Years Stage
Characteristics of Play:
- Children engage in parallel play, playing side by side but not directly with other children.
- Imaginative play begins to emerge.
Play Needs:
- Space for active play.
- Props for imaginative play.
Play Preferences:
- Building blocks and simple construction sets.
- Dress-up clothes and role-play items.
- Simple art supplies like crayons and paper.
3 to 4 Years Stage
Characteristics of Play:
- Children start to engage in cooperative play, playing with peers and taking turns.
- Imaginative play becomes more complex and detailed.
Play Needs:
- Opportunities for social play.
- Activities that challenge their creativity and problem-solving skills.
Play Preferences:
- Play kitchens, tool sets, or doctor kits.
- Board games that require taking turns.
- Arts and crafts supplies.
4 to 5 Years Stage
Characteristics of Play:
- Fine motor skills improve; children can handle smaller objects with more control.
- They start to enjoy more structured play with rules.
Play Needs:
- Activities that develop fine motor skills.
- Opportunities for structured and unstructured play.
Play Preferences:
- Board games and simple card games.
- Building sets with smaller pieces.
- Activity books and simple word games.
5 to 6 Years Stage
Characteristics of Play:
- Children develop more complex social skills and friendships.
- They enjoy group activities and understand simple game rules.
Play Needs:
- Social play opportunities.
- Activities that challenge their thinking and social skills.
Play Preferences:
- Team sports and cooperative games.
- Science kits, puzzles, and building sets.
- Role-play scenarios with friends.
6 to 8 Years Stage
Characteristics of Play:
- Children’s cognitive and physical skills become more refined.
- They develop stronger interests and hobbies.
Play Needs:
- Activities that align with their interests.
- Opportunities for skill-building and independent play.
Play Preferences:
- Organised sports, music lessons, or dance classes.
- Reading books of personal interest.
- Independent projects like model building or cooking simple recipes.
Conclusion
As children progress through different stages of development, their play needs and preferences change. Early years practitioners must be attuned to these changes to provide appropriate environments, resources, and activities. Understanding these developmental stages helps in supporting a child’s growth and fostering a love of learning through play. Focusing on the specific needs at each stage facilitates a more conducive learning atmosphere and nurtures the holistic development of the child.
