Glossary (Version 8.4)

Play is an activity that is positively valued by the player, self-motivated, freely chosen, and engaging. Children actively involved in play may be engaged in a variety of activities, independently, with a partner or in a group. Play can occur indoors or outdoors. It is closely tied to the cognitive, socio-emotional, and motor development of young children, and is an important part of developmentally appropriate early years learning. Benefits of a play can include persistence, negotiation, problem-solving, planning and cooperation.