Play is often described as the heart of learning in early childhood. Yet many educators recognise the child who wanders without purpose, repeatedly disrupts play, or struggles to join others. These moments can leave educators wondering how to respond and how best to support the child.

This webinar explores the reasons some children find play difficult and what educators can do to help. Together we will consider how developmental differences, trauma and sensory processing challenges can influence a child’s ability to explore, interact and sustain play.

Rather than seeing these moments as behaviour to manage, we will focus on the role of the educator in guiding and scaffolding play. Through practical examples, you will explore how thoughtful support can help children build the confidence and skills needed to engage in meaningful play experiences.

Together we will explore how you can:

• recognise barriers that may be affecting a child’s ability to engage in play
• understand how developmental differences, trauma and sensory processing can influence play and social interaction
• use adult scaffolding to support children to initiate and sustain play
• apply strategies such as the aid then fade approach to guide play and gradually step back as children gain confidence