New preliminary research considers the impact of joint play on children’s language skills and emotional development
New preliminary research, conducted at The Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London, and supported by confectionery brand Kinder, is exploring how play impacts children’s language skills and can build emotional connection.
Using wearable technology, worn by both children and family members, the research records the emotional and physical dynamics of in-home play sessions, aiming to learn more about how these moments can encourage language development and nurture children’s emotional wellbeing.
The project is part of Kinder’s wider Value of Play initiative which aims to research the role of play in active learning and development.
"Our early studies reveal a striking pattern: many families often share the same physical space, but mentally they are miles apart - one child immersed in a video game, another focused on a toy, and a third lost in drawing. While solitary play has important benefits for children's independence and creativity, our research shows how shared play can weave families into a unified dynamic. Through shared play, we see family relationships come alive,” explains Sam Wass, Director of the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London,
"Our research is looking at the ways play encourages children to form deeper bonds with their siblings and parents, leading to more connected speech patterns and movement patterns within families. Even more remarkable, our research suggests that play might affect the synchronization of families' moods and stress levels, highlighting play's powerful role in emotional connection and collective well-being. I'm looking forward to seeing how Kinder's ongoing research with the Value of Play panel will continue to unearth new insights and areas for exploration."
The initial results will be used in further analysis by the University of East London researchers, and Kinder, as they continue to explore how joint play influences children’s wellbeing.
"This new global initiative fills me with pride, as it deepens Kinder's collaboration with experts within this field,” adds Emiliano Laricchiuta, Global President of Kinder at Ferrero Group.
"Together, we will continue to delve into the profound benefits of play on early childhood development. The research insights will be available for parents and families and will also guide the development of our toys and play experiences to be engaging and fun but also rooted in scientific insights. This way, both children and parents can enjoy and benefit from play in ways that are backed by research."
