The challenge of incorporating research on play into the practice of preschool education

Research and theory on play is discussed to draw out implications for practice and policy in early childhood education (ECE.). Illustrations of advancements in outlooks on play are given to suggest progress in the field of ECE. The importance of play in defining developmentally appropriate practice (DAP) is then raised relative to the educational philosophy of constructivism and the concept of choice. Structural and attitudinal factors impeding the translation of research on children's play into practice can be removed through improved dissemination, collaborative research, and teacher preparation.