ABSTRACT
This chapter has been broken down into five sections: identification, how play can affect learning, understanding usual play development, why we need play and practical tips to understand how play impacts learning. It looks at how to spot a problem and how these problems can present in the classroom. The essential terminology used in this chapter are first Play, which is a developmental process that starts the moment we are born, it assists children to learn and to socialise. It is a child's work. Secondly pretend play which can be referred to as imaginative, make believe, fantasy or symbolic play. This chapter discusses why noticing a problem is essential and we will analyse what to look for when you think a child struggling to play appropriately for his or her age. It is the role of parents to create play opportunities such as play dates and provide children with toys that are of interest.
