About Play Face
The term Play Face refers to an expression commonly seen on the faces of humans and other mammals engaged in play. Those displaying this expression typically have wide, soft, and alert eyes, a friendly, inviting look, and a hint of a smile. Raised eyebrows and a slight head tilt may also be present
This expression signals an openness to continued engagement and comfort with the current situation.
Children (and adults) skilled at reading Play Face can use the signals they observe to adjust the play environment to keep the play flowing. When it begins to fade, the play environment may need adjusting. Learning to read body language in childhood play is a skill used throughout life in both work and social situations.
Sometimes players try to hide their openness to play by acting Plangry in order to appear fierce and powerful, but it tends to shine through.
Often associated with rough and tumble or aggressive play, it occurs in all types of play.
Read more about Play Face here, here, and here.
Here’s a Child Care Bar and Grill episode discussing Play Face.
The opposite of Play Face has been described as I Want To Eat You Face.
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Jeff Johnson is an early learning trainer, podcaster, and author who founded Explorations Early Learning, Playvolution HQ, and Play Haven.
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