In recent years neuroscience has given us greater insights into how the brain develops in the early years of life and what may affect its’ growth and functioning. Research has shown that a child’s emotional brain development is affected by certain factors which impact upon the way that the brain makes connections and ‘wires’ together. This will impact on how a child perceives the world and also how they behave and respond in certain situations and to other people. There is also clinical evidence which shows that the brain remains ‘plastic’ (able to change) for longer and therefore can offer a window for reparation and positive change.
‘Play is an essential part of a child’s life and vital to their development. It is the way children explore the world around them and practice skills. It is essential for physical, emotional and spiritual growth, for intellectual and educational development and for acquiring social and behavioural skills. Play is a generic term applied to a wide range of activities and behaviours that are satisfying to the child, creative for the child and freely chosen by the child. Children’s play may or may not involve any equipment or have an end product. Children play on their own and with others. Their play may be boisterous and energetic or quiet and contemplative, light-hearted or very serious.’
The New Charter for Children’s Play 1998 Children’s Play Council.