Exploring key features of rough and tumble play

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Rough and tumble play sees children push their physical boundaries, forge vital social connections, and embark on a journey of emotional growth. It’s a realm characterised by its spirited, energetic interactions that go beyond play; in fact, they are a foundational aspect of a child’s physical, social, and emotional development.

Diving into this rough and tumble play guide, you’ll uncover the valuable characteristics that set these interactions apart. It’s an opportunity to see beyond the surface to recognise the deep developmental benefits that come from such vigorous play. From enhancing motor skills to fostering negotiation and empathy, valuable opportunities for growth await.

Navigating the nuances between playful skirmishes and less positive encounters is key. Here, you’ll find strategies to create a play environment that’s as safe as it is enriching, ensuring every child benefits from these interactions. Recognising rough and tumble play through visual cues and behaviours becomes a critical skill, empowering you to confidently support this essential aspect of childhood.This resource is not just an introduction – but an invitation to embrace the potential of rough and tumble play for fostering physical and social development in your early years setting. It’s about committing to an environment where every child can thrive, transforming every playful tumble into a step toward growth and learning. Let’s start this conversation and ensure that every element of play becomes a building block on the child’s developmental journey.

Use this resource to:

  • Discover the features of rough and tumble play 
  • Explore the learning that take place through rough and tumble play
  • Recognise behaviours that indicate consent and enjoyment in play
Author
Lisa Kane
Director of Early Years Curriculum

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Lisa Kane
Lisa is a passionate early years educator, having found her way into the field after being fascinated by the rapid and wondrous development in the first years of her own children’s lives. Following these curiosities has taken her through a degree and post-grad in Early Years education, and clocking up over 20 years of hands-on experience in a variety of international school settings. Lisa believes that learning is co-constructed alongside the smallest humans, and is energised by the curiosity, awe and wonder they generate.
Explore Key Features and Benefits of Rough and Tumble Play
Rough and tumble play sees children push their physical boundaries, forge vital social connections, and embark on a journey of emotional growth. It's a realm characterised by its spirited, energetic interactions that go beyond play; in fact, they are a foundational aspect of a child’s physical, social, and emotional development. Diving into this rough and tumble play guide, you’ll uncover the valuable characteristics that set these interactions apart. It’s an opportunity to see beyond the surface to recognise the deep developmental benefits that come from such vigorous play. From enhancing motor skills to fostering negotiation and empathy, valuable opportunities for growth await. Navigating the nuances between playful skirmishes and less positive encounters is key. Here, you’ll find strategies to create a play environment that's as safe as it is enriching, ensuring every child benefits from these interactions. Recognising rough and tumble play through visual cues and behaviours becomes a critical skill, empowering you to confidently support this essential aspect of childhood.This resource is not just an introduction - but an invitation to embrace the potential of rough and tumble play for fostering physical and social development in your early years setting. It’s about committing to an environment where every child can thrive, transforming every playful tumble into a step toward growth and learning. Let’s start this conversation and ensure that every element of play becomes a building block on the child’s developmental journey.