different types of play

All types of play are crucial for children’s development and early learning. Play helps children to; improve physical skills and co-ordination, work co-operatively and collaboratively, use all their senses to discover and explore their environment, and develop their imagination, creative thinking and ability to problem solve.
All children begin by playing alone. Solitary play then transforms into parallel play (playing alongside peers) and imitative play (that may involve peers). Finally, there is cooperative play when a child learns to share toys and playtime.
Different types of Play at Star:
Symbolic play refers to symbolic, or dramatic, play which occurs when children begin to substitute one object for another. For example, using a cylinder to represent a microphone. This helps them to understand shapes and understand the world also stimulates their creativity.

Role Play can be one of the most important activities for young children, it not only stimulates their imagination but can helps with their social development. Literacy, numeracy and other curriculum activities can all be planned as part of a role play situation.
Exploratory play uses the senses of touch, taste, and smell to comprehend new experiences.

Messy play
Messy play is important for young children, giving them endless ways to develop and learn. They get a feel for texture, colour, and touch.

Relational play uses things as they are meant to be used. For example, using a fire truck to pretend to extinguish a fire.
Children enjoy physical play, indoors and outdoors. They revel in freedom of movement and in play that is inventive, adventurous and stimulating. Children also learn social skills as they cooperate with one another and show consideration for one another.
Sand and Water play
• Pouring, filling, stirring, pushing, pulling, moulding, digging, patting (developing fine motor skills)
• Manipulating tools
• Pouring into containers (Hand – eye coordination)
• Use equipment with skill

Activity idea for parents!
It may take a bit more time and thought when planning messy play activities but it is well worth the effort. Here are some helpful suggestions when planning messy play at home:
1. Giving children craft aprons to wear will prevent getting their clothes messy. Or use big old t-shirts pulled together at the back with hair/bulldog clips for total cover.

2. Take as much outdoors as possible (weather permitting!)
3. Use dust sheets over furniture to protect them. Use plastic tablecloths or shower curtains on the floor depending on the activity.
4. If you are playing outside, make tidying up a fun activity by letting the children wash away the chalk/paint etc on the patio using soapy water and brushes.
5. If you are very anxious about the mess…think small. Messy play could just be a simple activity. E.g. a bowl of water and different containers, scented play doe or finger painting.
6. The key thing to remember is to allow your child to become fully engaged with their activity and let them lead it. You can support their learning with vocabulary, posing questions and showing that you are interested and value what they are doing.