Crossword Genius

Encouraging and cheerful, fond of play pens (10)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

supportive

'encouraging' is the definition.
('supportive' can be similar in meaning to 'encouraging')

'cheerful fond of play pens' is the wordplay.
'cheerful' becomes 'up' (I've seen this in other clues).
'fond of play' becomes 'sportive'.
'pens' is an insertion indicator (to pen can mean to contain or imprison).
'up' placed into 'sportive' is 'SUPPORTIVE'.

'and' acts as a link.

(Another definition for supportive that I've seen is " Providing help".)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.