Young children play because it is the only way they know how to express and understand their feelings about themselves and their world. Though play has many meanings and functions, here we shall focus on how children use play to register and contain feelings. Play involves all the human emotions Shakespeare put into his plays - love, jealousy, shame, betrayal, sadness and rage. When a child is able to explore feelings and concerns through play, they slowly develop reflection, thinking and creativity. When feelings are unbearable because they are too real, as happens for those who experience loss, play can become muted, overly repetitive or out of control. Adults can help children who are unable to use play to adapt, provided there is effective communication between home and nursery.
Register now to continue reading
Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:
What's included
-
Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month
-
Unlimited access to news and opinion
-
Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news
Already have an account? Sign in here
