This chapter is written in response to four-year-old Ronan's request, 'Just let me play'. He was attending a nursery where learning letters and numbers was given priority. His reaction, however, will confirm many parents' and practitioners' fears that in some settings, Primary 1 or Key Stage 1 goals have become part of the nursery ethos. New advice in England that there has to be more time for play comes as a relief to all those strongly in favour of a child-centred curriculum where the children learn through play. This is especially important for children who need additional learning support.
Let's consider what Ronan really missed when he didn't get to play:
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