Kids use play as a way to express their feelings and learn new things, but in the age of electronics, video games and television can take over a child’s free time. That’s why it’s important to create opportunities where children can play freely, use their imaginations, and have fun. Traditional play can provide these lasting benefits:

Social Skills and Leadership

Children learn valuable social skills that will help them be successful as they grow. By taking turns, sharing, and interacting with others they are learning how to appropriately respond to others. During play, they are able to practice both their verbal and nonverbal communication skills. They also learn to negotiate when things don’t go as planned. Experimenting with different roles in their family and community as they pretend to play house, school or store helps them gain insight into the world around them and interpret the feelings of others. (education.com)  

Motor Skills

Children develop their fine motor skills through play. Using crayons to color a picture helps develop fine motor skills; other activities: playing with Play-Doh, practicing scissoring, stringing beads, and using lacing cards. Gross motor skills are also developed in play time. Games like tag or hopscotch integrate the large muscle movement which will help children gain balance and spatial relationship. Playing and climbing at the park helps kids learn to use their bodies and provides exercise for children. (handsonwegrow.com)

Problem Solving and Emotional Development

Kids can work through their emotions by simplifying situations through play. This helps them express their feelings and regain control. They may act out something that scared them, like a car accident they saw while driving past. They may also play out something they are not allowed to do and then work through the consequences through play. “Play can be safe outlet to work through situations that cause them anxiety, such as starting school or visiting the doctor. Letting the child take on the role of the authority figure will help them process how events may unfold,” says early childhood educator Kara Thomas.

Imagination

Play builds a child’s imagination. You can help your child with imaginative play by role playing with them. Call them on the pretend phone, ask them to cook your lunch in the play kitchen, or have them use the doctor kit to do a check up on you. Engage them in conversation while you act out these scenarios. Often, you will be surprised at their perceptions. By role playing, they learn to better understand their surroundings and build their imagination.

Why Parents Should Play with Their Kids

Kids enjoy playing alone or with other children but nothing quite compares to playing with a parent. Although we may be busy with work or household tasks, taking time to play with our children …

  • Makes the child feel special
  • Helps you understand your child
  • Provides quality time together
  • Creates one-on-one time with the child
  • Is fun for everyone

– Sarah Lyons

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