The 7 Types of Play
A Guide for Parents
Let’s dive deeper into the world of playing! There are 7 distinct types of play to look for. Each type has its own set of benefits and all types are equally as important.
Attunement Play:
Play that involves shared moments of connection and responsiveness between parent and child. This type of play builds emotional bonds and enhances communication skills.
Examples: Peek-a-boo, copying facial expressions, serve and return play
Age: Infants
Body Play and Movement
Body play and movement is physical play that engages the body and encourages movement. This type of play improves motor skills, coordination, and physical fitness.
Examples: running, jumping, climbing, obstacle courses, games (tag, chase, sports), playgrounds and dancing
Age: Walking and Up (style of play advances as child grows)
Object Play
Object play is that play that involves manipulating objects. This type of play enhances problem-solving skills, fine motor skills, and creativity.
Examples: blocks, puzzles, interconnecting manipulatives, and in general playing with toys
Age: Infants and Up (objects become smaller and play becomes more complex as child ages)
Social Play
Play that involves interaction with others. Often involves games with rules and cooperating with others. This type of play develops social skills, cooperation and understanding of social norms.
Examples: organized games or sports
Age: 4+
Imaginative and Pretend Play
In imaginative or pretend play children use their imagination to create scenarios and roles. It fosters creativity, empathy, and language development.
Examples: Playing house, dressing up, role playing like pretending to be someone else
Ages: 2+
Storytelling and Narrative Play
This play creates and shares in stories. It enhances language skills, narrative understand, emotional expression and conflict resolution.
Examples: telling stories with toys, making up adventures, and dialogs in play as characters
Ages: 4+
Creative Play
Play that involves creating something new. It encourages artistic expression, innovation and problem solving.
Examples: Drawing, crafting, building with materials such as legos, STEM projects, art projects, recycle projects
Ages: 3+
We explored 7 types of play, attunement play, body play and movement, object play, social play, imaginative and pretend play, storytelling and narrative play, and creative play, and how each one contributes uniquely to a child's development. These different forms of play are not just enjoyable for children but are crucial for their physical, emotional, cognitive, and social growth. It's important to remember that every child is unique, and their preferences for certain types of play may vary. The ages are approximated and can vary based on child and interests. Play continues to evolve as children grow and have more experiences. (Even adults can enjoy play! More about that later!)
Parenting Action Steps:
Observe your child and look for their play preferences.
Provide play opportunities based on their developmental needs and interests to support a well-rounded development
Encourage your child to explore new ways of thinking and interacting with the world around them
Engage with your child in various forms of play
Building a Community:
And as always, I love to hear from you. Please share your experiences and observations about your child's play in email or social media!
What types of play do they enjoy most? Have you noticed any new skills or behaviors emerging from their play? Your stories and insights can inspire and support other parents on this journey.
And if you're interested in learning more about child development and Montessori parenting, stay tuned for our upcoming courses and events. Together, let's nurture the joy of play and the wonders of childhood.
