ABSTRACT
Play offers children a safe environment in which to experience and rehearse every idea and concept they need to master. No matter how complex these ideas may currently be to them, they can be embraced with excitement and joy when done in an environment of play and social leaning. At the same time, they’re stimulating development across their whole body as they strengthen all systems through their desires to play and have fun. Through the warm, positive interactions that you share, a child's language skills flourish while at the same time they are observing and developing the social skills required to engage with others and explore their world. In this chapter you will learn why it is important to allow babies to play and to gain the social and communication skills these experiences involve. You will understand how you can develop their ability and desire to embrace these key learning dispositions and gain the support you need to reflect on your practice and the experiences you offer. Having read this chapter, you will:
Know why it is important for babies to have fun
Understand how to develop a baby's ability and desire to have fun
Be supported in offering practice, environments and experiences where babies can have fun.
