Play is Children's Work

Today’s children are growing up in the digital age. Research has shown that a child’s ability to engage in pretend play is affected when the TV is on. The United Nations High Commission on Human Rights has recognized play as a right of every child. Play should be spontaneous and chosen by the child. Children create the rules and take on any role they choose. Through play children encounter and learn to deal with new ideas and objects. The skills to get along, take turns, cooperate, share and compromised are practiced in play. Props represent real or imaginary experiences. When children participate in activities taught by a teacher, they are not participating in true play. With these activities, they are “restricted by instruction.” Play helps children master empathy, social skills, and contributes to a positive self-concept. Play is every child’s work.