Play is prevalent in many African cultures and the wider African background, where we frequently see characteristics of play when individuals participate in music and dance activities.

In the African context, play is a way in which people communicate, compete, test, instruct and enjoy. Because of this complex and multi-dimensional character of play, a musical performance can both be ritual and play.

OUTCOMES OF PLAY

Play is an important part of learning since it engages both the mind and the emotions. Play is a way of life that necessitates a certain level of openness and willingness.

The other educational goal of play is to instill in children particular behaviors, beliefs, and values that are healthy and beneficial to society.

Play fosters cognitive growth and development, physical development, as well as social and emotional development, in the foundation phase.

Help learners to master a variety of intellectual, physical, and social skills and concepts by          

It also helps children do better in terms of cognition, socialization, and movement/coordination than those who have fewer opportunities for engagement, according to research.

How do music games support holistic development?

By means of students taking part in teaching and learning activities that incorporate play concepts, they can grow holistically by participating in authentic, meaningful activities. Learners in the foundation phase develop cognitively by improving their problem-solving abilities and learning about cause and effect while also growing cognitively.

These students gain cognitive abilities such as "identifying, classifying, sequencing, observing, discriminating, making predictions, drawing inferences, comparing, and determining cause-and-effect linkages" (Brewer, 2007, p. 148) as a result of their participation in play activities. Learners gain creative thinking skills and solve difficulties when they are required to find ways to achieve specific goals while adhering to fluent rules during play.

 Importance of games in culturally diverse classrooms

Learners must collaborate in order for the game to be successful and fun. Learners develop a sense of belonging and are given the freedom to be anybody they wish in class. Play has a calming impact. The youngster can work through personal issues through play and imagination. Play provides an emotional outlet wh= ile also fostering a sense of community.