New research from the Institute for the Science of Early Years at the University of East London, supported by Kinder, is exploring how shared play between parents and young children shapes communication, emotional connection and family interaction. Early findings from a UK pilot study suggest that when families play together, parents and children move closer physically, communicate more responsively and show greater emotional alignment. Using wearable sensors, video, audio and machine-learning analysis in families’ homes, the Kinder Play Study is examining how these everyday moments of play influence children’s development and family relationships.
