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We are often asked by creative developers in studios and production companies how to make content more engaging and educational for a particular audience. The crux of our advice always centres around playfulness.
Think about it: why is Bluey so beloved by kids and parents alike? The answer lies in its playful portrayal of family life. Every episode is a celebration of play, making it highly relatable to children and their families.
The enduring success of children’s TV shows and the rapidly evolving digital content landscape share a common thread: the universal appeal and educational power of play. Incorporating elements of play into digital content not only captures the attention of young audiences but also supports their growth and development.
In this article, we’ll explore why play is so crucial in children’s media and how we at FUNdamentally Children can help you integrate this powerful tool into your content.
Play has always been a vital part of a child’s development. For centuries, philosophers and educators have recognised the value of play, though it wasn’t until more recent history that we truly began to understand its impact.
Researchers like Jean Piaget and Lev Vygotsky showed us that play is far more than just fun—it’s essential for cognitive, social, and emotional growth.
Today, the right to play is even recognised in international agreements like the 1989 Convention on the Rights of the Child, highlighting its importance in a child’s life. As a result, there’s been a surge in research and development focused on how play supports learning, making it a cornerstone of effective children’s content.
Successful children’s shows have always understood the importance of play.
Here’s a look at how some of the most iconic programs have used play to engage young audiences:
Understanding your audience is the first step. It’s vital to conduct research with the children who will be watching your content. This ensures that your ideas resonate with them and meet their developmental needs. While it might be tempting to rely on your own instincts or feedback from a small group, thorough research often reveals surprising insights that can significantly enhance your content.
Creating content that resonates with young audiences requires a careful blend of creativity and structure. Use frameworks that align different types of play with developmental stages to guide your content creation. Whether it’s through character-driven stories, interactive segments, or play-based learning modules, we can help you craft content that captivates and educates.
To truly master the art of play in content creation, consider investing in professional training. At FUNdamentally Children, we offer workshops tailored to your team’s needs, providing them with the knowledge and tools to apply play theory in practical ways. From understanding cognitive development to fostering social learning, our sessions will help your team create content that makes a real impact.
Finally, consider seeking accreditation for your content. Our accreditation process not only certifies that your content meets high standards for educational value but also provides a platform for promoting your work. It’s a mark of quality that parents and educators trust, helping your content stand out in a crowded market.
Incorporating play into children’s media is more than just a trend—it’s a proven strategy for creating content that engages and educates. By partnering with us at FUNdamentally Children, you can harness the power of play to create meaningful, impactful content that resonates with young audiences and their families. We’re here to help you every step of the way, from research and development to training and accreditation.
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