Contextual Factors Informing Play-based Program Planning

The purpose of this paper is to provide a rationale for and overview of contextual factors that can influence the play, hence developmental outcomes, of preschool children with disabilities. Indeed, the efficacy of play-based program planning is enhanced when consideration is given to relevant contextual factors. The discussion begins with framing play in the current early childhood milieu and continues with a presentation of perceptions, attributes, and contextual factors associated with children's play. The relevant play research is discussed relative to child, program, family, and measurement characteristics that can influence play/developmental outcomes.