Why Play Supports Emotional Wellbeing in Early Childhood
Play is a fundamental part of early childhood development and plays a vital role in supporting children’s emotional wellbeing. During the early years, children experience a wide range of emotions but often do not yet have the language to express them. Through play, children are able to communicate feelings, regulate emotions, and build emotional resilience in a natural and developmentally appropriate way.
Understanding the connection between play-based learning, emotional development, and the play environment is essential for parents and educators who want to support children’s overall wellbeing.
The Importance of Play in Emotional Development
Play supports emotional development by giving children the freedom to explore feelings at their own pace. Through imaginative play, sensory experiences, and open-ended activities, children express emotions in ways that feel safe and meaningful to them.
Play helps children to:
express emotions they cannot yet verbalise
develop emotional awareness
build confidence and independence
reduce stress and anxiety
strengthen emotional resilience
Research in early years education consistently highlights the importance of play in supporting children’s emotional wellbeing and mental health.
How Play Supports Emotional Regulation
Emotional regulation is a key skill developed in early childhood. Through play, children practise managing frustration, adapting to challenges, and trying again when things do not go as planned.
Play-based experiences allow children to:
make choices and feel in control
repeat activities to build emotional security
practise patience and turn-taking
learn to cope with small challenges
These skills support children in developing self-regulation, which is essential for learning, behaviour, and emotional wellbeing.
The Role of the Play Environment in Emotional Wellbeing
The play environment has a significant impact on children’s emotional development. A calm, organised, and intentional play space helps children feel safe, confident, and supported.
A well-prepared playroom should:
feel predictable and uncluttered
offer open-ended and natural materials
support independence and choice
encourage child-led play
In Montessori and Reggio Emilia-inspired approaches, the environment is often referred to as the third teacher, recognising the powerful role space plays in supporting emotional and cognitive development.
Play, Emotional Safety, and Wellbeing
Emotional safety is the foundation of healthy development. Through play, children experience comfort, familiarity, and a sense of belonging. When children feel emotionally safe, they are more likely to engage deeply, build positive relationships, and develop strong self-esteem.
Supporting emotional wellbeing through play can lead to:
improved behaviour and focus
stronger social connections
increased confidence in learning
a positive relationship with their environment
Why Play Is Essential for Children’s Wellbeing
Play is not a break from learning it is how children learn. Emotional wellbeing, social development, and learning are deeply connected, and play supports all areas of development.
By prioritising play and creating intentional, child-centred environments, we give children the best foundation for emotional wellbeing and lifelong learning.
I’m Here to Support You
If you are looking to create a calm, supportive play environment that nurtures your child’s emotional wellbeing, I’m here to help. As a Playroom Consultant and early years educator, I support families in creating intentional play spaces that respect children’s needs and encourage meaningful, child-led play.
Vasiliki Papageorgiou
