In this article, the authors discuss how play influences a child's development in several areas. The article begins by presenting how play influences the development of a child's social and emotional status; play well with others and learn to manage your feelings. The author then explains how physical development is also promoted through play. This is done through playtime and physical activities where children have the opportunity to participate in games that develop their fine and gross motor skills. Finally, the author explains how play also promotes creative development while simultaneously developing physically, socially, and emotionally. This creative development is believed to be developed through the use of the child's imagination and role play. The main thesis discusses the link between child-directed play and the normal, healthy development of children. This article begins by discussing the relationship between play and social/emotional development. A child's emotional development is essential to becoming a healthy adult who can cope with all the stress and hectic lifestyle that comes with living in today's society. According to these authors, when children are exposed to child-led play, they “increase their social skills and emotional maturity…. verbal and non-verbal skills…responding to peers’ feelings…experimenting with roles” (SOURCE!!!!). The skills a child can learn through the simple act of play are essential to their healthy development. Children can “increase their social skills and emotional maturity” by learning to relieve stress and manage their emotions while playing. For example, a young child may learn that when he is sad, he can play with his toys so that...... middle of paper ......develop gross motor skills by learning to crawl, then walk , then run. By doing this they develop their big muscles which they gain more control over, this happens simply by playing with their peers or family in any way they please. Finally, the author explains how “play helps them develop or maintain their energy, joint flexibility and muscle strength”. This happens in any type of play that gets a child moving and challenges them to do more. This is the type of play and development that can help influence their behavior as adults. If a child learns to participate in active play to maintain a healthy body, he or she will most likely continue to display these characteristics into adulthood. Works Cited From Creative Thinking and Arts-Based Learning Preschool Through Fourth Grade, by JP Isenberg, M. Jalongo, 2006 edition, p.. 53-55.