A DRAMATIC approach to children's play has helped childcare and early years workers enjoy the benefits of a new training scheme.

The course, organised by the Redcar and Cleveland Early Years Development and Childcare Partnership, working with the Cleveland Theatre Company, shows how drama can help develop children's imaginations and creativity.

Jenny Sutton, education officer for the theatre company, said: "Cleveland Theatre specialises in theatrical and practical work with the under-fives.

"We really enjoy passing on expertise to early years and childcare workers so that they can take away really practical activities to help the children in their care develop and learn through play.

"The sessions are fun and explore all aspects of creativity. It's training, but certainly not in the traditional sense of the word."

The sessions used shadow puppets, storytelling, samba and carnival music, as well as playing with materials.