Play has an undeniable influence on every aspect of a child’s development, laying the foundation for reading, writing, mathermatical reasoning and creativity. Through play, children develop:

* Physical (groos-motor) skills, as a child at play learns to reach, crawl, walk, run, climb, jump, throw, catch and balance.

* Fine-motor skills (the use of hands and fingers) as he or she handles playthings.

* Mental skills, through play that encourages problem solving and demonstrates cause cause and effect.

* Language skills, which blossom as a child interacts with others and uses words for favorite playthings and activities.

* Social skills, which are mastered by learning to follow directions, cooperate, take turns, abide the rules and share.

* Emotional skills, as children experience pleasure, bond with others, and work through feelings during the role-play.

*Self-esteem, so crucial to one’s long-term happiness and success, enhanced when chidren archives goals through play.

* Creativity and imagination, when a child pretends to be a doctor, a teacher, a parent, or a fire-fighter, he or she learns that life is full of possibilities and opportunities.

Perhaps most important of all, play is fun. Years later, when we recall our childhood, it is the happy times spent playing with special people that we remember most fondly.

Source: Toy Industry Association, USA