By Ahalya Ram Dec 16, 2025
Every parent’s greatest dream is to see their child grow happy, confident, and kind.
And the secret behind it all? Meaningful Play
Importance of play in early childhood.
Play is the most important work of childhood. Play goes beyond fun – it shapes how children explore, connect and grow resilient. Play nurtures curiosity, social intelligence and inner strength. Also a child’s play nature is the greatest clue about their talents and strength. Kids who engage in active and imaginative play often become better problem solvers, collaborators, and critical thinkers as adults. Key takeaways of Play,
- Enhancing brain development
- Acquiring social and emotional skills
- Improved health
- Helps in learning and academic success
Stages of Play
Infants : Offer babies and infants plenty of Tummy time. It helps them build your baby’s neck and shoulder muscles to support sitting, crawling, and eventually walking. Also playing peekaboo, singing, chatting and reading to kids help them connect strongly with their parents as well as caregivers
Toddlers : Toddlers are more active; they love to run and climb. They notice other kids playing and may watch them, but they don’t always join in right away. So help them choose what to play. Repeat words and phrases with them. Pretend , run around, stack rings and play memory game with them.
Pre Schoolers :Preschool children start to play more with other kids rather than just alongside them. They enjoy playing together and often want to do things on their own. Also turn everyday activities into opportunities for play. Play make believe while cleaning the house; take turns making a story while running errands, sort foods into colors or shapes while shopping.
School-Aged Children: Once kids reach school age, they are much more independent. They engage in more interactive games with friends, working together and cooperating during playtime. Also when parents play with presence , children feel deeply connected.
Types of play
- Free Play : Encourages independence and exploration.
- Outdoor Play : Improves physical fitness and connects kids with nature.
- Pretend Play : Develops creativity and problem-solving abilities.
- Sensory Play : Supports fine motor skills and cognitive development.
- Board Games &
Puzzles : Strengthens logic, patience, and teamwork.
How can play begin at home
- Create time and be present with your kid
- Offer toys that invite imagination and exploration
- Find endless play possibilities of each toy
- Play together as a family
- Celebrate their effort
- Make play part of their life
Your child loves playing with you. By adopting a child centered approach, you can support them grow into well- rounded, resilient, kind and capable individuals.