Which of the following is a major development in free play? 

Free play refers to unstructured, voluntary, child-initiated activities that promote self-expression and creativity. It is a crucial component of early childhood development, allowing children to explore their environment, interact with peers, and practice skills without direct adult control. Key Points

• In the context of free play, children engage in pretend games, take turns, share, express ideas, and communicate with peers.
• These activities naturally support the development of social interaction and the use of language.
• Through role-play and group games, children learn cooperation, build vocabulary, follow rules, and negotiate, which are central to both social and language development.
• The absence of rigid structure encourages spontaneous conversation and active participation, forming the foundation for effective communication and social bonding.

Hint

• Physical development does occur during free play, especially when children run, climb, or use playground equipment, but it is more associated with motor skill practice than a major development focus.
• Cognitive development is supported through imaginative play and problem-solving, though it is not the most dominant area during free play.
• Emotional development is also enhanced as children express feelings and learn self-regulation, but these outcomes are more indirect compared to the social and language gains.

Hence, the correct answer is social and language development.