Play is fundamental to a child’s development. As an educator, I have observed children’s inability to engage in play due to their workload, which includes educational pursuits and chores. I’ve witnessed the oh-so familiar conversation between child and parent, with the parent firmly telling their child, ” You play too much”, while I stand on the sidelines thinking, that children are not playing enough. Throughout the years, research as shown that children actually learn through the art of play.
Why is Play Important?
Play Aids in the Development of Problem Solving Skills
I can recall numerous occasions when my friends and I would solve problems while we engaged in play. We would create different items needed for a specific game using anything we could find around the environment. From empty juice boxes to empty pans, we sure solved our problems without adult guidance. That’s how play works. It allows a child to development their critical thinking skills without feeling pressured to come up with solutions for the problem at hand. The next time you observe a group of children playing, take the time to carefully observe the problems that arise in the game and how they quickly go about solving them.
More Play Equates to less Stress
Studies show that when we laugh or engage in a fun activity, our bodies release endorphins that promote a feeling of well-being. Studies have also shown that children are experiencing increased stress; thus, children do need to engage in regular play to lessen their chances of becoming overwhelmed. Therefore, more play equates to less stress.
Play Fosters Proper Communication Development
While children engage in play, they communicate with the individuals they are playing with. This allows them to develop effective communication skills as they are practicing the art of proper listening and speaking.
To conclude, as stated before, play is fundamental to a child’s development. Parents are encouraged to include organized and unorganized play in their daily routine. Do remember that all work and no play make Jack and Jill dull.
