Playwork: The play cycle
Playwork: The play cycle
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Playwork: The play cycle
Metalude
Annihilation
Play Cue
Play Flow
Play Return
Play Frame
Metalude – this is where play begins and sets out the context of play – the moment the child has
the thought to play.
Play Cue – child will produce some form of cue or action, which is an invitation into the child’s play,
with an expectation of a response. The cue may be given to an adult, child or object and could take
the form of a smile, request or the child throwing a ball to someone or something.
Play Return – invitation is accepted. If there is a ‘play return’ and the play continues, the child will
create a ‘play frame’, which is the boundary (psychologically and physically) around their play.
Activity tables can limit children's play frames. If children do not see the play return they may
display negative behaviour (dis-play).
Play flow – when children become engaged and caught up in the moment of their play.
Annihilation – when this play is finished when the children feel that it has no more meaning or has
lost its value. If another child disrupts a child’s play frame this may lead to dis-play.
In order for healthy development, the full cycle needs to be completed.
Please note:
‘Containment’ – adults do not initiate the play, but they can support it – facilitate.
‘Adulteration’ – adults must be careful not to take over and ultimately, end the play before the full
cycle is completed.
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