All Play Is Okay: Meeting Children Where They Are Through Play

Why All Play Matters

Play is more than entertainment—it’s communication, connection, and learning all wrapped into one. Some children dive into pretend games, others explore by repeating actions, some prefer building or sorting, and others are happiest running, crashing, spinning, or singing. The truth is...there isn’t one “right” way to play. Every type of play has meaning.

Following the Child’s Lead

Children connect and learn best when we meet them in their play. It’s our job to notice what they’re doing, value it, and join in. By following their lead, we create a bridge between their world and ours—one built on trust, curiosity, and shared joy. These moments of connection open the door to modeling new words, practicing reciprocal interactions, and building communication in ways that feel natural. Whether a child is stacking blocks, lining up cars, or making silly animal sounds, joining their play helps us connect on their terms and makes room for language to grow.

Different Kinds of Play

Play often changes as children grow. Developmental research describes certain play stages that many neurotypical children move through—like cause-and-effect play during infancy, parallel play in toddlerhood, pretend play in preschool, and cooperative play in the early school years. But not every child follows this path in the same way or at the same pace. Some children may stay longer in one stage, move back and forth between stages, or engage in play that looks different altogether—and that’s okay.

Here are just a few types of play you might notice:

• Cause-and-effect play: Exploring how actions make things happen—pushing buttons, knocking down blocks, or dropping toys to see what happens

• Parallel play: Playing side by side without direct interaction

• Pretend play: Acting out stories and using imagination

• Repetitive play: Doing the same action again and again—like lining toys in a row

• Sensory play: Exploring textures, movement, and sounds

• Scripted play: Using favorite lines from shows, books, or songs

  
  

Each of these is valid. Rather than focusing on which stage your child is “in,” notice what makes them light up during play, as it offers powerful insight into how they learn, connect, and express themselves!

How to Get Involved in Play

Getting involved doesn’t mean taking over. It means noticing what your child is already doing and finding gentle ways to join in. Maybe you add one more car to their line, stack a block on their tower, or hum along to the tune they’re singing. These small actions say, “I see you, and I want to be part of what you’re doing.” Next, try commenting on what you see instead of giving directions. Instead of, “Make it race,” you might say, “Your car is going so fast!” This helps children feel that their play is valued just the way it is.

Finding your child’s interests is another key. If they love dinosaurs, trains, or spinning in circles, let that be your bridge. Shared interests can spark connection and give you natural ways to communicate together. And remember—your role isn’t to turn every moment into a lesson. The goal is to share joy. When children feel safe and connected, language often grows naturally. By honoring all play as meaningful, we give kids the space to connect on their own terms, in ways that feel fun and comfortable.

Our Philosophy

At Early Bird Speech Therapy, we believe all play is valuable. By meeting children where they are developmentally, following their lead, and using their interests as bridges, we create opportunities for authentic communication and connection.

Schedule a free consultation today to learn how play-based therapy can support your child’s communication journey.