1. Play is voluntary and intrinsically motivated. In play, children are free to choose the content and direction of their activity. The play is self-satisfying because it does not respond to external demands or expectations.

2. Play is symbolic and meaningful. Play enables children to relate their past experiences to their present reality.   

3. Play is active. In play, children explore, experiment, investigate and inquire about people, objects or events. They are actively engaged with each other and with materials.

4. Play is rule-bound. In play, children are governed by either explicit or implicit rules. Young children create and change rules during play that apply to appropriate role behavior and object use. Older children accept predetermined rules that guide play.

5. Play is pleasurable. In play, children pursue an activity for the pleasure it brings - not for an external reward. Play behavior can be serious or non-serious.