Although play is important for people of all ages, it is especially meaningful and important for young children. Play is their work, and they give a tremendous amount of energy and effort to it. A great deal happens when children are playing. They are developing social skills, habits and attitudes that will stay with them throughout their lives. As they play they learn to cope with frustrations, to continue to try to improve, to share with others, to give vocal expressions to their thoughts and fantasies.