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Abstract

The following dissertation will focus on the benefits that play opportunities have on children aged four to seven attending primary education due to the positive impact it can have on their holistic development, but specifically social and cognitive development for the purpose of this dissertation. Play has a crucial role in supporting children to learn, develop and explore the world surrounding them, in which provides foundations for their role within society. Therefore, when attending preschool and other early years settings, it is evident that the main focus is ensuring children have a sufficient amount of time and quality resources for play activities. Over recent years, as children transition into key stage one (KS1), there has been a decline in the availability of play opportunities due to the academic pressures teachers face with meeting specific criteria and grades with the national curriculum. Many early childhood pioneers, as well as contemporary theorists, have identified notions in regard to social and cognitive development and the potential influences that can impact upon this development either in a positive or negative manner. Many of them refer to play within their theories so practitioners are able to reflect upon this in order to identify effective provision of various play activities. There are a variety of different types of play which can all provide alternative benefits to children for their social and cognitive development. However, some types of play such as outdoor play and rough and tumble play, face criticism due to the element of risk, raising concerns for health and safety issues. This can influence the availability of these opportunities for children. It is important that practitioners recognise that every child is unique and therefore tailor activities to ensure that each child is comfortable within their learning environment and fulfilling their potential.

Course: Early Childhood Studies - BA (Hons)

Date Deposited: 2024-05-15

URI/permalink: https://library.port.ac.uk/dissert/dis14400.html