12 Types of Play |
Below is a concise breakdown of each of the 12 major types of play, for more information click on the title of the play you are interested in learning about. Keep in mind that all of these types of play can also be used together in various different pairings and groups during a game or activity.
Fine/Small MotorSmall-motor play includes the ability to move your hands, fingers, feet, toes, and muscles of the tongue and lips in a precise and controlled manner. One main skill developed through this type of play is dexterity.
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Large MotorLarge motor play allows students to move their entire bodies around different spaces while using a variety of equipment. It promotes social development and navigational skills while building coordination, dexterity, stamina, and more.
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Rough & TumbleRough & tumble play may be seen in the form of chasing, wrestling, pushing, pulling, throwing or other more physical activities. The aspect that sets rough & tumble play apart from aggressive fighting is the playful purpose behind the actions.
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Risk-TakingRisk-taking play gives students an opportunity to assess their own personal skills and abilities. Differentiation between hazards and risk-taking is key to embracing and encouraging this type of play.
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LanguageLanguage play is one of the most commonly found and identifiable types of play. Singing, learning poems, and experimenting with words allow students to develop their inner voices.
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ConstructionConstruction play involves students planning, building, and taking apart structures or objects. It requires imagination as well as goal-setting. They may use tools, blocks, or any other open-ended materials to construct.
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Make-BelieveTypically make-believe play is prefaced by someone saying "let's pretend" and can include action scenes, puppet shows, or any other activity that the student may have experienced. There are roles and rules determined for all players and typically some sort of problem will arise that the students will have to solve.
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MasteryChildren who continuously go back to an activity and practice until they perfect the skills required are engaging in mastery play. This can include activities like hand-clap games, riding a bike, or skating.
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Rules-BasedStudents on the playground will create games for groups of children that involve creative and fun rules, but this can also be seen in a classroom where students are exposed to board games.
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SymbolicObjects like sticks, cardboard boxes, and blankets can be used symbolically by students to create scenes and environments that they imagine. Students in need of a specific object are encouraged to find something similar to take its place if that object is not available.
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ArtsArts play is quite open-ended and can be done with as much or as little material as the students have available. It can be seem in the form of plays, puppet shows, dance performances and more. Students practice expressing their feelings through the arts.
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SensorySensory play is done outside or inside and involves any type of material that students are able to touch, smell, play with and explore. This could be dirt, sand, water, rocks, etc. Read more to learn about building your own sensory bins.
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I know it's PLAY when...
- The learning is self-chosen and self-directed by the student
- There is engagement in imaginative thinking and communication between students
- There is intrinsic motivation and the process is valued more than the product
- The students select the rules and the rules don't impede the students creativity
- The learning takes place in an active, engaged, and alert mindset but no stress is present
I know it's INQUIRY when...
- The learning is driven by curiosity
- "Learning from experience" is the foundation for discovery
- The learning is based on student interest
- The learning starts with a question which leads to more questions
- I hear things like "I wonder..." or "I think... because..."
- Self-assessment and feedback are used to increase the learning and not to communicate right or wrong
- It occurs in an environment conducive to risk-taking with support
- It occurs in an environment that promotes and values "mistakes" as learning
- The topics being explored are based on the students interests
- The process is open-ended and valued more than the product
- There is a fostering of innate curiosity, sociability, playfulness and a deep desire to learn - which all students are born with
All information adapted from Edmonton Public School's "Understanding the 12 Types of Play" Administrator Resource.