Play is the most valuable and important work children do. It’s complex and meaningful. It teaches empathy and kindness, problem-solving skills, patience, how to handle frustrations, disappointments, and successes. It teaches them how to take appropriate risks and to listen to what their body is ready to do. It encourages ingenuity and experimentation. Time in play allows the child’s brain to process information, to unpack the learning and teachings of the day and make sense of them. The most authentic and important learning comes through play. UNDERSTAND PLAY so you can value it and protect it.