PLAY IS CHILDREN'S WORK!

When the concept for Kid Ventures San Diego was developed, the idea of creating an indoor play space that could stimulate the creativity and imagination of children while facilitating physical activity and movement was in clear alignment with the theory that this form of play is essential to a child's physical, social, emotional and cognitive development.

Because play involved physical activity, it is closely linked to the development of fine and gross motor skills and general body awareness. This physical development at a young age will have a signficant impact on a child's ability to participate in structured activies and sports as he/she gets older.

Interactive play also fulfills the basic social and emotional need by human beings to connect with and feel part of a group. Playing with others is a child's first experience at connecting with non-family members, learning to share, care and work as a team. It also allows then to match their behavior with other children and take on other viewpoints.

Evidence also provides a strong link between play and cognitive development. By focusing on creative play, children can work with manipulatives, props and dress up to help stimulate learning and brain development

There are lots of excellent resources that provide further details into the linkages between play and physical, social, emoitional and cognitive development. So the next time your little one is enjoying the market, fire station, pirate ship or just time with another child at Kid Ventures, remember, they are at work!