Abstract:

The entertainment and the game play are concepts that are easily found in the current discussion of various theorists in the area of child development. However, the credibility process and definition of "recreational activity" was delayed because it had long been seen as opposed to serious work and activity, leading to a negative connotation and its scientific study was disadvantaged.

Since this is a concept connected to the main activity of the child and an act which arouses interest and enjoyment is crucial to consider it in educational contexts. Given that leisure activity may be the oldest and known behavior of the human being it is visible that it has undergone several changes, which are translated into behaviors and children's play. For Einstein the act of play is the highest form of research. Vygotsky believes that the recreational activity has three key features that are present in all games: imagination, imitation and rule.

Currently, early childhood educators are sensitive to this issue and aware that the recreational activity is the key to promoting comprehensive and harmonious development of the child. According to Piaget, recreational activity cannot be seen as a simple joke or fun to wear energy, it favors the development physical, cognitive, emotional and moral. Through this process we can see the construction of knowledge and participatory citizenship. Acting on objects, children could structure their notion about space and time, develop the notion of chance, coming to the representation and, finally, to logic. Children are more motivated to use their intelligence, because they want to play well, struggling to overcome cognitive and emotional barriers.

In light of the theories of Piaget and Freud, the term recreational activity usually has a broader meaning than the game, covering all activities that may have a playful character for this group, depending on your feeling, or attitude. However, the leisure activity is used often as a synonym for fun or play. It is time to consider the play as a partner and use it extensively to promote development and a more effective learning.

Keywords:

Recreational activity.