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Date of Award
5-2025
Document Type
Restricted Project: Campus only access
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Child Development
Department
Child Development
First Reader/Committee Chair
Wilcox-Herzog, Amanda
Abstract
Though infants and toddlers are sometimes underestimated, extensive research documents how rapid brain development is occurring within these early years. Brain development depends on early experiences. That is why it is crucial for these experiences to occur during this critical time of heightened sensitivity to stimulation. Learning experiences for infant and toddlers takes place with play. Establishing environments that cultivate play and offer ample opportunities to engage in play are crucial for development and growth. However, for some children and families, they may encounter barriers to play. Children with disabilities encounter unique barriers such as inaccessibility to adequate environments and social exclusion (Barron et al., 2016; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2022). In addition, Mexican American families encounter barriers to play such as lack of knowledge and materials to optimize play experiences (Aikens & Barbarin, 2008; Fletcher, 2020).
The purpose of this project was to create an evidence based educational workshop for parents and caregivers to learn about the importance of play and how to provide optimal play experiences. The contents of the proposed workshop include the following topics: Why the Early Years Matter, The Power of Play for Development, Provision of Optimal Play Experiences, and Becoming Play Experts. Ultimately, this workshop has the potential to provide valuable information for parents and caregivers, and anyone who works with young children and families.
Recommended Citation
Del Pilar, Xiomara, "ONE, TWO, THREE, PLAY WITH ME!: A WORKSHOP ON CULTIVATING PLAY EXPERIENCES FOR INFANTS AND TODDLERS" (2025). Electronic Theses, Projects, and Dissertations. 2108.
https://scholarworks.lib.csusb.edu/etd/2108
