Working as a Child Analyst in a Community Daycare Program

The work described illustrates the importance of active playing in childhood as a subjective activity from age two-and-one-half years up to at least five years old, as a means of communicating nonverbally, especially when words are not yet readily available. It is a young child's way of exploring the world and his own interests, while also communicating what matters to him emotionally. It requires adults to translate and understand what playing communicates and actually means, and why it matters emotionally. Playing enhances relationships and is useful in conveying and furthering interpersonal understanding, gradually becoming ever more verbal.

Automated summary

The described research emphasizes the importance of active playing in childhood as a nonverbal means of communication, especially when verbal skills are not yet developed. Playing allows young children to explore the world and express their interests, as well as convey their emotional concerns. It requires adults to understand and interpret the messages conveyed through play, and why they hold emotional significance. Playing enhances relationships and contributes to the development of verbal communication skills.