Exploring parental perception of play in socio-emotional development of 3-5 years old children

Abstract

This study investigates how patents view play and how it affects the socio-emotional development of children aged between 3-5 years. Eight parents participated in in-depth interviews for the study, which focused on their engagement in play, how they comprehend socio-emotional development, and the challenges encountered by them. The findings demonstrate that parents understand the value of play in helping their children grow in social, communication and emotional resilience. They believe that play promotes bonding, confidence, and positive behavior. However, challenges like time constraints and resource limitations affect their ability to engage fully. The study concludes that although parents are aware of the benefits of play, more awareness and support are needed to foster a conducive environment for optimal child development. The findings of this study might be significant for policymakers, educators, and early childhood specialists aiming to enhance parental involvement in play-based learning to foster socio-emotional development.