The polyphony of voices in cultural-historical approaches to play: special issue in honour of Elena Kravtsova and Elena Smirnova

Current research and practice in early years pays special attention to education using play. However, the prospects for play application remain largely unclear. Starting from works of Lev Vygotsky his followers (D.Elkonin, A.Leontiev) an activity-based approach was elaborated. The development cultural-historical theory continued Elena Smirnova Kravtsova others. proposed consider context zone proximal development. Play considered as a tool stimulating child interest solving educational problems. studied influence toys on preschool children. She emphasized need preserve children's initiative spontaneity Contemporary studies explore different contexts such presence adults, its structure creative potential, possibilities develop executive functions digital world. results these are presented this issue show relevance studying problem role development, Cultural-Historical Activity Theory Perspective.