A Theoretical Expansion of the Play Cycle: Jakob von Uexkull's Functional Cycle and the Perceptual Cue

The author seeks to expand the notion of the "play cycle," first introduced in 1998, to include the "functional cycle," with its "perceptual cue," touted by Jakob von Uexkull. He also discusses Simon Nicholson's theory of "loose parts" and James J. Gibson's notion of "affordances." He outlines the impact of these and his now-revised play cycle and its perceptual cues on professional playwork and other play-related activities, especially those in preschool, child care, and the early years of education. Key words: functional circle; Jakob von Uexkull; play cycle; play process; playwork