New parents have a lot to think about as they drive home from the hospital with their newborn: feeding schedules, nap time, bath time, changing the first diaper, making sure there are no sharp edges, plugging electrical outlets.
Often dismissed as childish, play may actually be the most important way for young children to grow, learn about their surroundings, and build stronger brains. Play allows young children to hone their attention spans and to learn to focus on specific tasks.
Play is part of the fundamental learning process of childhood, and playing with other children helps a child develop the social skills necessary for living and working with others as they make their way through life.
