Child-directed, spontaneous, developmental play is being replaced with adult-led academically focused activities with potentially negative short- and long-term implications related to school readiness. Increased screen time spent engaged in television, video, or computer activity is contributing to sedentary lifestyles affecting health, well-being, and motor development and motor learning. Increased incidence of childhood obesity resulting from time spent in play which lacks physical activity impacts foundational gross motor skill development with additional social implications. This interactive presentation explored changes in the occupation of early childhood play, factors affecting play skills, and the relationship of changes in play to school readiness. The concepts of school readiness and attitudes, skills, and behaviors were discussed. A task analysis of toys and play activities was included, highlighting the sensory, motor, and social components of play. Techniques to adapt and create developmentally engaging toys was be explored in a group format.
