The Role of Play in Developing Intelligence and Life Skills in Children with Down syndrome (An Analytical Study of Three Cases at the Psycho-Pedagogical Centre of El Bayadh Province)

This study aims to explore the role of play in the development of intelligence and life skills in children with Down syndrome through the analysis of three cases at a psychological centre. The research adopted the case study method and focused on the impact of play on children's cognitive and behavioural development. Data were collected via various tools, including direct observation to monitor children's interactions with different types of play, interviews with parents and therapists to understand developmental changes, and psychological and educational tests to measure changes in intelligence and life skills after specific periods of play activities. The results showed that guided and free play significantly improved the participating children's thinking, communication, independence, and social interaction skills. Furthermore, motor and educational games enhance cognitive abilities and support acquiring essential life skills. The study recommends intensifying play as an educational and rehabilitative tool for children with Down syndrome, emphasising the need for a stimulating and supportive environment in psychological and educational centres and the development of specialised play programmes.