Goally Penguin Logo with Sunglasses

Goally

Get

Goally

What is Functional Play?

Home>>Neurodiversopedia>>F Terms

Summary

summary

Functional play is when kids do activities that help them learn and practice important skills they’ll need daily. It’s like playing with toys or doing things in a fun way that also helps them get better at things they do every day.

Frequently Asked Question

donut

Is functional play suitable for all age groups?

Yes, functional play can be adapted for different age groups, from toddlers imitating simple activities to older children engaging in more complex role-playing scenarios.

Is functional play only for kids with special needs?

No, while functional play is particularly beneficial for children with special needs, all children can benefit from activities that simulate real-life situations, helping them develop crucial skills.

Can functional play be incorporated into therapy sessions?

Absolutely, many therapists use functional play as a therapeutic tool to address specific developmental goals, making therapy engaging and effective for children.

Are there any downsides to functional play?

Functional play is generally positive, but like any play, it’s important to strike a balance with other types of play to ensure a well-rounded development. It’s also essential to choose age-appropriate and safe activities.

Scientific Definition

scientist

Functional play, in the context of children with special needs, refers to play where kids engage in activities that have a purpose and relate to their real-life skills. This type of play involves using toys, objects, or actions that mimic activities they might encounter in their daily routines. By participating in functional play, children with special needs can develop and refine essential abilities like communication, motor skills, problem-solving, and social interaction while having an enjoyable and educational experience. It’s a crucial aspect of their development that bridges the gap between playtime and acquiring practical life skills.

Real World Example of Functional Play

Meet Susie, a spirited girl with a love for learning and a heart full of curiosity. Despite facing certain challenges, Susie’s enthusiasm knows no bounds. Through the magic of functional play, she discovers a world of growth and excitement:

  • Cooking Adventures: Susie dives into her toy kitchen, whipping up imaginary feasts and learning about ingredients, measurements, and sharing.
  • Supermarket Quests: Susie navigates the “grocery store” aisle with a tiny shopping cart, practicing her counting and interaction skills with play-food items.
  • Creative Dress-Up: Donning various outfits, Susie transforms into different characters, fueling her imagination and building her self-expression.
  • Construction Wonders: Susie builds towering block structures, not just playing but improving her coordination, focus, and spatial skills.
  • Friendship Tales: Susie interacts with friends in role-playing games as they embark on imaginative journeys, cultivating her social and problem-solving abilities.

Functional play is Susie’s guide to exploration, fostering skills, and creating unforgettable memories on her growth journey.

How Does Functional Play Work?

Functional play is all about learning through action. It helps kids with special needs practice skills while having fun. Here are some ways it works:

  • Imitating Daily Life: Children engage in play that imitates real-life activities they’ll encounter, like cooking, dressing up, or pretending to shop.
  • Communication Building: Activities like playing house or restaurant encourage kids to use language, helping them develop communication skills.
  • Motor Skill Refinement: Building with blocks, drawing, or cutting shapes refines motor skills and coordination.
  • Social Interaction: Playing together in roles (like doctor-patient) teaches sharing, taking turns, and teamwork.
  • Problem-Solving: Figuring out how to fit puzzle pieces or build structures teaches valuable problem-solving skills.

The functional play intertwines learning and enjoyment, empowering kids with special needs to develop essential skills while embracing their creativity. Goally, a dynamic tablet tool, amplifies functional play’s benefits for children with special needs. Its apps, from digital schedules to skill training, empower kids to learn essential life skills joyfully.