Why Play is Crucial for Baby Development

As parents, we often see play as a way to keep our little ones entertained, but did you know that it’s actually essential for their early development? Pediatric physiotherapist Wendy Astbury explains that play is much more than just fun, it’s the foundation for learning and growth from day one.

"Play is essential right from the get-go and all the way through," Wendy says.

Whether it’s trying different toys, playing with different people, or engaging in various activities, every type of play offers valuable learning opportunities. Quiet play, like reading a book, helps develop focus and imagination. Outdoor play, such as chasing a ball or playing tiggy, promotes physical activity and motor skills. Even solo play encourages independence and problem-solving.

Wendy highlights the importance of exposing your little one to a wide variety of play experiences. Playing with others helps toddlers develop crucial social and emotional skills, teaching them about cooperation, sharing, and empathy. At the same time, cognitive development is enhanced as children engage in different types of activities, learning new concepts and skills without even realising it.

The beauty of play lies in its diversity. Whether your child is exploring the world outside, engaging in pretend play, or quietly flipping through a picture book, they’re constantly learning. Every game, activity, and toy contributes to their overall development, building a foundation for lifelong learning.

So, as you watch your little one chase a ball, giggle during storytime, or play on their own, remember they’re not just having fun, they’re growing. By giving them a variety of play opportunities, you’re helping them thrive emotionally, socially, and cognitively.

For more expert tips on boosting your child’s early development through play, be sure to follow along!

Transcript

How important is play in the early development?

Play is essential right from the get go but all the way through. It is how little ones learn by playing by trying different toys by playing with different people all sorts of different play like quiet play reading a book outdoor play chasing a ball or playing tiggy playing on their own.

Playing with other little ones it all provides different learning opportunities that will assist the little one's cognitive development and the toddler's social and emotional development. So play is essential for development. That exposure to a variety of different play activities just means that they are learning all sorts of different concepts and skills without even realising they're learning.