Episode-67-Why Play Is Not Optional: How Babies and Toddlers Learn Through Play

In this episode of On Call with Dr. Anselm, we explore why play is one of the most powerful tools children use to grow emotionally, socially, cognitively, and physically. Drawing on decades of pediatric and developmental science, including insights from T. Berry Brazelton, this conversation breaks down how play begins in infancy and evolves into the complex social learning that prepares children for adulthood.

Parents often think of play as something that starts later—but play begins as early as the first smiles, coos, and eye contact. From newborn social play to peekaboo, crawling exploration, early walking, language-driven play around 18 months, and imaginative toddler games, this episode walks parents through what healthy play looks like at every stage.

You’ll learn:

• When play actually begins in babies (hint: much earlier than you think)

• Why simple games like peekaboo and hide-and-seek build brain development and emotional security

• How walking and language dramatically change how children play

• Why play is essential for emotional regulation, resilience, and confidence

• How parents can support play without over-structuring or over-directing

• Why children across cultures play in remarkably similar ways

• How play prepares children for relationships, school, and adult life

Most importantly, this episode reassures parents that play does not need to be expensive, complicated, or scheduled to be meaningful. Presence, responsiveness, and shared joy matter far more than toys or apps.

If you are a parent, caregiver, educator, or simply curious about how children grow, this episode will change the way you see play—and why protecting it matters as much as sleep, nutrition, and love.

Because when children play, they are doing the most important work of childhood.