ABSTRACT
Consistent with Mary D. Sheridan’s original work, this chapter will focus on definitions of play, functions of play and predominant play types. It will consider theories of play and evidence for the potential of play to support children's development across domains. In particular, it will highlight how the choice, control and ownership afforded to children during play enhances opportunities for learning and development. Pellegrini proposes that the more characteristics that are present, the more 'like play' the activity becomes. Research demonstrates that preschool children define play as activity that is freely chosen and self-directed. Young children do not often define play as being something that is necessarily fun. This differs from the views of children in middle childhood, fun becomes a more important feature. Sheridan's focus was on children's spontaneous play, suggesting a natural inclination or drive towards play activity. Significant advances in evidencing the benefits of play have been made by focusing on children's own perceptions of their play.
