What Do Children Learn Through Play?

Just like other playful creatures, children find deep rewards from play. Here are some of the reasons why children play:

• They’re setting up a cognitive space where they can create a problem and then solve it.
• Pretend play may also help children develop self-control and, paradoxically, understand the line between play and reality.
• Role-playing that involves feelings, such as pretending to be scared or triumphant, can help some children understand and control their emotions.