Let's Talk Series: Purpose of Play According to Age

The purpose of play is NOT...independence from you. 

As much as we want our babies, toddlers, preschoolers and school-age children to "play on their own" and "give us some peace and quiet"... that's not the purpose of play.  When a child doesn't want to "play by themselves" or "can't keep themselves busy" ... that's not a lack of play skills. 

The purpose of play is not independence.  Play is not all solitary. Play is not about keeping busy.  Play is not about fancy toys. 
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Children learn through play and play to learn.  It is their childhood occupation.  Children learn about themselves, their bodies, their feelings.  They learn and connect with others around them.  They learn about their environment and "things" in their environment like toys and nature.  Through active hands-on play; children will develop their motor and movement skills, problem solving and cognitive skills, language, social and emotional skills. 

Before you cry out with "but I can't play with my child ALL day"...  It does not mean that you have to "entertain your child" all day long.  It doesn't mean that your child won't develop some independence and learn to play by themselves.  It doesn't mean that your child shouldn't be given the opportunity to "get bored" and try things out on their own.  These are all valuable for your child. 

But, to manage your expectations... it doesn't mean that if you set up a toy room that looks like a shop (or is Pinterest worthy) that you should expect your child to stay there all day and "play" without you. 

Play is fun.  Play is joyful. Play is intrinsically motivating for your child.  The best play engages your child at their developmental level and they are learning without realizing that they are learning.  

Play is also about developing a secure connection.  A loving relationship.  Close emotional bonds help develop a child's self esteem. 
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The best toy for a child is actually you; the parent or caregiver. 

It can be useful to know a little about how a child develops play skills and what is expected at each age.  Here is a brief overview presented in an infographic.  If you are having difficulty seeing this image; select "show remote content" in your email browser or visit the YKOT blog online --> https://www.yourkidsot.com/blog/lets-talk-series-purpose-of-play-according-to-age-therapists-are-not 

Purchase a printable version of this infographic at the YKOT shop. 

I WANT THE PLAY POSTER

Read more about play: 

•  "Why is my child just playing when they see an OT?"
• My child hates messy play
• The Importance of Puppet Play
• 7 Gross Motor Skills Your Preschooler Should Master

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Find some "home made play ideas" :

• Home made light box
• Home made car road mat
• Outdoors Imaginary Play Space
• 7 Invitations to Play Kinetic Sand
• Fantastic Travel Toys and Games

Printables to encourage play:

• Write and Play: Airline
• Write and Play: Circus
• Tapatan Game Board
• LEGO challenge
• Bingo
• Snakes and Ladders

Occupational therapists take "play" seriously! But seriously; play is fun and an intrinsic part of childhood!  Some would argue, play is an important part of life for children (and adults) of all ages! 

Happy Playing!

Cindy is a registered occupational therapist practising in Sydney, Australia.  She has two growing children who are a constant source of inspiration and learning.  Cindy loves working creatively to help children to reach their potential, finding opportunities in everyday living and making learning fun. She is also addicted to making printables (even when they take a long time to complete).  Cindy is the author of the Occupational Therapy blog Your Kids OT.  Read more articles from Your Kids OT at https://www.yourkidsot.com/blog

Cindy is a member of the Functional Skills for Kids Therapy Team.  They have together published THE HANDWRITING BOOK, THE SCISSORS SKILLS BOOK and THE TOILETING BOOK.

​The information on this site is general in nature. The activities are safe for most children, however, you should consult an Occupational Therapist or health professional to address specific movement, sensory or other medical conditions. Affiliate links are used throughout this website to promote recommended products. Your Kids OT receives a small commission if any purchases are made through these links. Please see my disclosure policy for more details. ​​​
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