"Play is often talked about as if it were a relief from serious learning.  But for children, play is serious learning.  Play is really the work of the child."

Our Curriculum: CCCC Curriculum

Through play, children learn about themselves, their environment, people and the word around them. As they play, children learn to solve problems and get along with others. They enhance their creativity and develop leadership skills and healthy personalities. Play develops skills children need to learn to read and write. Play in early childhood is the best foundation for success in school.

As a child learns to reach, grasp, crawl, run climb and balance. physical skills are developed. Dexterity develops when the child handles toys or other objects.

Language increases as a child plays and interacts with others. A baby's cooing games with parents evolve into the language skill of a child sharing stories. Learning to cooperate, negotiate, take turns and play by the rules are important interpersonal lifetime skills, all of which play fosters.

Positive play experiences develop positive emotional well being. Through play and imagination, a child can fulfill wishes and overcome fears of unpleasant experiences. Play helps the child master the environment. When children feel secure, safe, successful and capable, they acquire important components of positive emotional health.

Resource: Learning Through Play- A Child's Job

By Jane K. Frobose

Colorado State University Extension

Family and Consumer Education

Denver County, February 2008