How Children’s Play Develops from Birth to Age 5

An overview of the development of way in which a child plays and ultimately learns about the world around him from birth to age 5.

There is nothing more frustrating you or your child than trying to get him to accomplish something he is not yet capable of doing. You need to understand your child’s abilities and limitations to avoid such frustrations. I have outlined the basic characteristics of children’s play development from birth to age five for you. This information has been derived from my formal education, my many years of teaching and of course, being a Mom. Whatever the age or stage of your child enjoy them as they pass from one stage to the next. If you would like to know more detail about each stage of child development you need to look no further than your local library or bookstore. There are countless books out there that go into great detail about child-development. Another avenue to investigate regarding child development is your local college. They will usually offer mini-courses on this topic just for parents. Always keep in mind that each child develops at his/her own pace so don’t rush them!

Birth to 12 Months
From birth until about one year of age babies develop at an incredible rate. Each day these little wonders gain more and more control over their bodies. They learn how to hold up their heads; roll over; sit unassisted; crawl; and for some they can walk. During this time babies learn about their bodies. They are aware of their fingers and toes and find much amusement in playing with them. They even begin to recognize their name. Communication skills are also developing. At first babies cry to have their needs met. Later they babble, razz their tongues and say mama and dada. As time passes they play with more and more sounds and begin to connect them to a few close people and objects.

12 Months to 3 Years
Call them Waddlers or Toddlers but children this age are on the move! For the next two years these little darlings are constantly working on their coordination and language skills. They thrive on routines, as a sense of security so be sure to include them in your day-to-day doings. They are becoming more independent and often demand to do things for themselves. Give them plenty of opportunities to make their own decisions such as "Would you like to have milk in your red cup or blue cup?"

They are also very curious and are constantly exploring their environment and the objects within. They are intent on figuring out how a toy works, what happens to it when they drop it, throw it or bang it. Note: Make sure toys are sturdy enough to handle these investigations.

They touch, taste, listen and look at everything! Expect it and plan for it by providing a safe hands-on environment with as many harmless things to explore. I hope I don’t have to tell you to supervise this curious age at all times, no matter how safe you think you have made it, accidents can and will happen.

The young Waddler/Toddler group, 12 to about 24 months, tend to play alongside others rather than with them in a collaborative way. And by all means, do not expect them to share; it is not in their make-up at this time.

3 Years to 5 Years
Imagination! Imagination! Imagination! Need I say more? Ok I will. Their imaginations are beginning to take over their play at the same time as cooperative play and the development of friendships. Children this age tend to imitate familiar roles and they embellish on them in the most interesting ways. Before you know it Barber/Beauty shops have taken over your dining room while a grocery store or restaurant invades your kitchen. Don’t be alarmed if a construction site enters your living room just be prepared to put on a hard hat and get to work. They like to make up their own games and use the same object to represent a number of real life items.

Their large and small motor skills are becoming fine-tuned as they play with smaller toys. Their language skills develop even further as they attach words to actions and ideas.

Imaginary friends may begin to appear at your dinner table. Just be sure to set an extra plate but don’t fall for the old "My friend needs a dessert too." As you know your child will have to help him eat it. If you do fall for the old dessert trick make sure your child’s imaginary friend has eaten all of his or her dinner first. This is such a fun time!

Article by:

Cheryl Zarra

Reprinted with permission from:

Buzzle.com