Play Steps

Updated Version

Play Steps takes a closer look at different types of play demonstrated by children in activities commonly found in Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) settings. It provides examples of small observable steps which might help to break activities down or add something to an activity to make it more motivating or accessible to a child with Additional Support Needs (ASN).

It is not recommended that this whole document be used with a child. Sections should be used independently focusing on the interests of the child or the areas where specific needs have been identified. This would be your starting point. It is also not an expectation that every step in a section would be completed. All children develop in their own unique and individual ways, have varied interests, and some may have ‘spiky’ or atypical developmental profiles.

It’s suggested that this document be used as a springboard for discussion to generate ideas for next steps which combines the knowledge and expertise from the setting, parents/carers and visiting professionals. Some blank spaces have been included for staff to add their observations or record their own ideas. 

Be a ‘play’ detective

You can use Play Steps in different ways to guide your practice of supporting children with ASN.