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Play and Language: Developmental Complements
By: Renata Bursten, Dragonfly Staff

Lucy L Cohen has written an informative article on how play and communication develop together. Learn to foster this crucial development in children coping with developmental challenges.

Play and communication -- together -- enable youngsters to socialize, explore, experiment, pretend and problem-solve. Language enriches and embellishes play; play, in turn, provides an arena for pragmatic language. Play and communication develop effortlessly for most children but may pose significant challenges for youngsters with special needs.
,Most children seem to know instinctively how to play. They delight in using toys and props and are remarkably creative and resourceful as they amuse themselves or interact with friends. They may turn to adults for companionship, approval or materials but generally develop play skills without specific guidance. Youngsters usually find play both stimulating and enjoyable.

Children with developmental disabilities, on the other hand, often have difficulty with play. Some have cognitive, communication or processing impairments that compromise their ability to generate novel ideas for play. Others have problems maintaining attention to activities, moving independently, expressing themselves or comprehending language. These challenges impact upon their efforts to plan and engage in play activities.
,Here is how you can help.

Play and Language: Developmental Complements