I believe play is an important part of child development because it is a self-satisfying activity that allows children to gain control and understand their environment. Play allows children to become creative and develop their own imagination, build agility, grow physically, and enhance cognitive as well as emotional development. For instance, in activities such as solving puzzles they allow a child to develop cognitive abilities by developing the memory. Activities such as climbing, ball throwing and skipping ropes build strength and stamina for the physical growth of a child.

It is through play that children learn to interact and engage with the environment around them. It ensures that as they explore the environment they can conquer their fears in different ways. For example, while imitating adult roles together with their peers, children manage to develop new competencies. Through this play, children develop confidence and resiliency that can assist them to face future challenges. For example, as I was growing up we engaged in cooking games with my neighbors and this love for the kitchen has remained with me. I practiced cooking skills from my childhood and today I still cook because it inspires me.

In essence, undirected play allows children to learn ways of working in groups,negotiate, resolve conflicts, and also understand self-advocacy skills. It is apparent that when play is child driven, it ensures that children practice decision-making skills, discover areas of their own interests, and even take part in passions they wish to pursue in future. For instance, a child who likes singing in front of others in kindergarten, he/she becomes actively involved in learning skills such as music in upper classes. I agree that play ensures children learn about themselves to build self-image and self-esteem.

In addition, the play ensures that children are able to develop attention to details in many areas. They understand the value of concentrating in activities that catch their interests and develop them for the future. Through play, it builds attention and persistent in activities that a child likes and enjoys. For instance, a child playing with puzzles would learn the art of concentration and attention to get it right. In addition to concentration skills, the child learns to predict the outcome of the game depending on whether he/she puts the puzzle correctly or not. It develops cognitive skills of problem-solving and making decisions depending on the circumstances. These skills become efficient and beneficial to a child as they grow because they open up the mind for bigger possibilities.

I believe that the play forms the basis for learning because it offers meaningful setting for children to understand new skills and concepts. Most of the time, play makes learning an exciting activity for all children. For example, while I was in kindergarten, objects, balls, and games we played while being taught proved beneficial. These games allowed me to master the things the teacher was presenting faster than when it was only theoretical. Play incorporated in learning eliminates boredom from children to keep them interested in the material being present. Children in lower primary would benefit greatly when classes incorporate games and fun activities in the lessons. The idea of incorporating this play extends the thinking capacity and allows children to experiment with new methods. It also allows them to practice important skills in addition to working in teams.