Citation
Barnardos. (2005). Guide to Games and Activities for 0-5 Year-Olds. https://knowledge.barnardos.ie/handle/20.500.13085/691
Abstract
Play is essential for learning and the singular central activity of childhood, occurring
naturally at all times throughout a child’s day.While playing, children explore their world,
learn about their bodies, test their skills, communicate and interact with others.Through
play children learn to share, make their own choices and develop their independence. Play
can be active, exploratory or imaginative, occurring individually, in groups or simply side by
side. Children are naturally curious and self motivated, seeking out new experiences in
their world. Parents and carers, being their earliest, most important teachers can provide
safe, stimulating and varied opportunities to explore and learn at home.