Piaget's Theory shows us how important play is for children to learn and grow. Kids don’t just sit back and take in knowledge; they actively build their understanding through their experiences. Here’s how play fits into his stages of development:

1. Sensorimotor Stage (0-2 years):

   • During this time, babies learn by using their senses. For instance, when a baby shakes a rattle, they discover sounds and what happens when they make noise.

2. Preoperational Stage (2-7 years):

   • Kids start to use their imaginations more. For example, they might pretend a broom is a horse. This shows they can think symbolically and be creative.

3. Concrete Operational Stage (7-11 years):

   • At this stage, children begin to understand games that have rules, like board games. Playing these games helps them think logically and understand how to get along with others.

4. Formal Operational Stage (12 years and up):

   • Teenagers engage in more complex play, like role-playing or discussing moral questions. This type of play helps them think critically and make predictions based on different situations.

In every stage, play is not just fun. It is also a key part of how children grow their minds and understand the world around them.