Why Play?

The importance of play for children cannot be overstated.  Not only is play essential for a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development, but it also plays a crucial role in their overall well-being.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), play is the primary way in which children learn and develop.  Through play, children develop their social skills, problem-solving abilities, and creativity.  They also learn how to express their emotions, manage stress, and build self-esteem.

In addition, the AAP states that play is essential for the development of the brain.  Through play, children learn how to process information, make connections, and think abstractly.  They also develop their memory and attention skills.

Moreover, play is essential for the development of children’s physical abilities.  Play helps children to develop gross and fine motor skills, balance, and coordination.  It also promotes physical fitness, which is essential for maintaining good health.

Play is not only beneficial for children, but it also has benefits for parents and caregivers.  A study published in the journal ‘Child Development’ found that parents who play with their children have stronger emotional bonds with their children and are more likely to provide positive and nurturing care.

Playing outdoors is also an essential aspect of play for children.  It provides opportunities for children to explore and discover the natural world, which can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment.  Children who play outside have a greater understanding of the natural world, and are more likely to take action to protect it.

In addition, playing outdoors has many physical benefits.  Outdoor play promotes physical activity that can lead to healthier weight, stronger bones, and muscles, and improved cardiovascular health.  Outdoor play also exposes children to natural light and fresh air, which can improve sleep, mood and overall well-being.  Children who play outdoors have better mental and emotional health than those who spend most of their time indoors.

Playing outdoors allows children to learn important life skills, such as risk-taking, decision-making, and problem-solving in a safe and natural environment.  It also offers opportunities for children to develop their creativity and imagination, as they are exposed to different natural elements, textures, and colours.  It also allows children to develop their social skills as they have more opportunities to interact with other children and adults in natural settings.

In conclusion, play is essential for children’s development and plays a crucial role in their overall well-being.  It is essential for children’s physical, cognitive, and emotional development.  Parents and caregivers should encourage and support play to foster children’s growth and development.  Outdoor play is an essential aspect of play, providing opportunities for children to explore and discover the natural world, which can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation for the environment.  It also has many physical, mental, and emotional benefits that can contribute to the overall well-being of children.

References:

American Academy of Pediatrics. (2015). The importance of play in promoting healthy child development and maintaining strong parent-child bonds.

Kuo, F.E. (2015). Children with attention disorders: six times more likely to play in nature. Children, Youth and Environments, 25(1), 1-24.

Kuo, F.E., & Taylor, A.F. (2004). A potential natural treatment for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder: Evidence from a national study. American Journal of Public Health, 94(9), 1580-1586.

Louv, R. (2008). Last child in the woods: Saving our children from nature-deficit disorder. Algonquin Books.

Nisbet, E.K., Zelenski, J.M., & Murphy, S.A. (2011). The nature relatedness scale: Linking individuals’ connection with nature to environmental concern and behavior. Environmental Education Research, 17(4), 489-503.

Pellegrini, A.D. (2009). The role of play in human development.  American Journal of Play, 1(2), 76-119.

Pellegrini, A.D. (2015). The role of recess in children’s cognitive and social development.  Pediatrics, 136(1), e198-e205.

Pyle, R.M. (2008). The thunder tree: Lessons from an urban wildland. Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

Taylor, A.F., Kuo, F.E., & Sullivan, W.C. (2001). Coping with ADD: The surprising connection to green play settings.  Environment and Behavior, 33(1), 54-77.

Van den Berg, A.D., Kipperberg, G., van der Meer, Y., & Kolk, A.M. (2015). The relationship between green space and health outcomes: A systemic review.  International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 12(4), 4396-4427.

Vandell, D.L., & Ramanan, J.A. (1992). Parent-child play: Descriptions and implications. Child Development, 63(5), 1473-1491.

White, R. (1997). In praise of convergent thinking. Natural History, 106(8), 12-19.