Handbook

The aim of the subject is to provide a sound theoretical foundation for the use of play for young children’s development and learning. It explores play as a central pedagogical approach providing a quality education and care program for children aged birth to five years. The subject presents a range of classical and modern theories of play and explores the application of these theories to early year’s education. It treats the topics such as imaginative play; spontaneous and guided play with children’s perspectives on play; play in families and communities; play in a range of diverse contexts; providing for enriched play environments; play-oriented curriculum; play and modern digital technologies; play and assessment and inclusion through play. The damaging effects of play deprivation are identified, while exploring the crucial role of play in children’s development.