To examine how play in an early childhood setting aids in the development and improvement of social skills in kids: Benefits of play in an early years setting, Thesis, SETU, Ireland

Aim and Objectives

The research aims to investigate the social benefits of play in an early-year service. The specific objectives of the research are as follows:

• To examine how play in an early childhood setting aids in the development and improvement of social skills in kids.
• To analyse how play interactions affect children’s ability to cooperate, develop connections, and resolve conflicts.
• To access the role that educators perform and the many tactics they employ to support play-based social learning.
• To investigate any challenges or difficulties that could prevent early years services from realizing the social advantages of play.

Research Questions

The specific research questions that the research ought to answer are as follows:

I understand and agree that I am over the age of 18. By completing this questionnaire, I give consent to the researcher to collect data for the purpose of their BA (Hons) Degree in Early Years Education. Please note that by signing this consent form, you are agreeing to participate voluntarily in the study and have the right to withdraw at any time without penalty or consequence. Your responses will be kept confidential and anonymous, and only used for research purposes. The information collected will be securely stored and accessed only by the researcher(s) involved in this study. If you have any questions or concerns about your participation in this study, please feel free to contact the researcher. Thank you for your willingness to contribute to this research project. By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read and understood the above information and voluntarily agree to participate in this study.

1. Does play contribute to the overall development of children in their early years
2. During observation it was noticed that there was an increase in social interaction among children during playtime.
3. Do you believe that play helps children develop important social skills such as sharing and taking turns.
4. Have you noticed an improvement in children’s ability to communicate and express their thoughts or feelings after engaging in play activities.
5. Do you think that play promotes empathy and understanding among children.
6. Do you believe that play helps children build friendships with their peers.
7. Have you observed an increase in cooperation and teamwork skills when children engage in group play activities.
8. Do you think that play encourages creativity and imagination, which can enhance social interactions among children.
9. Have you seen improvements in children’s self-confidence and self-esteem as a result of participating in playful activities.
10. Do you think that play provides opportunities for children to learn how to negotiate and compromise with others.
11. Do you believe that play enhances communication skills, including listening actively to others’ ideas during collaborative play.
12. Have you noticed an improvement in emotional regulation and self-control among children who engage in play regularly.
13. Do you think that play fosters a sense of belonging and community within the early years’ service.