Learn to Play
Learn to Play was developed by Australian Professor Karen Stagnitti. With a background in Occupational Therapy, Professor Stagnitti realised that through play , children are understanding their world, understanding themselves, trying out ideas and learning.
Sometimes however, for whatever reason, children may find play difficult. Play is a complex ability and not all children develop the ability to play. For these children, they can learn to play if they are shown what to do and how to use the play materials. This is where the Learn to Play approach can help and what I can offer as part of my Mind Sparkle services.
Learn to Play is a directive therapeutic intervention which is centred on assisting children to develop pretend play ability which in turn will support other aspects of their development. Pretend play is the special type of play we see when children enter the imaginary world. In this play they use their imaginations and enter a world of fantasy or make believe.
Learn to Play is generally for children who are eight years or younger with developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, or those who find playing difficult and need help playing with friends. During the Learn to Play therapy sessions, your child will have time to develop pretend play skills that are expected for their development and age. The sessions will provide a range play materials that match your child’s current development and where they feel most comfortable. The play therapy activities will gradually challenge your child as their pretend play skills begin to develop.
Pretend play lays the foundation for literacy skills such as reading and writing. In imaginary play, children begin 'acting out' stories and creating narratives that provide experiences and confidence in self-expression. Skills in this type of play also provide valuable skills such as cooperation, collaboration and sharing. Pretend play also allows children to express emotions as they bring life to their friends in the play space such as an excited teddy bear enjoying a tea party or the scary dinosaur stomping through the forest.