Children’s play is any behaviour, activity or process initiated, controlled and structured by children themselves; it takes place whenever and wherever opportunities arise.

 

Play involves the exercise of autonomy, physical, mental or emotional activity, and has the potential to take infinite forms, either in groups or alone. These forms will change and be adapted throughout the course of childhood.

 

The key characteristics of play are fun, uncertainty, challenge, flexibility and non-productivity.

 

Together, these factors contribute to the enjoyment it produces and the consequent incentive to continue to play.