The Importance of Play

If you’re a parent than you know that playing is one of the most important things children can do. There are so many benefits and it’s so beneficial to your child’s developement.

Once the school year begins and extracurricular activities ramp up, sometimes it’s hard to make time to just play. It’s easy to get caught up in the routine, the chores, going from one activity to the next, working and everything else parents have going on throughout their day.

It’s important to stop and play. Maybe not everyday, but as often as possible. We’re still at an age range where we can do playdates. We have friends we’ve made over the past couple of years that we can call to meet up with at a park, playground, library, bowling, or just hang at one of our houses. The kids are able to be in a comfortable place with some freedom and the ability to interact with each other. They’re able to learn from each other and work on communicating more effectively. The most important thing they’re able to do is have fun in a non-structured environment.

As parents, my husband and I also work to make sure we’re playing as a family. Sometimes we walk up to a nearby school and play Basketball, Box Ball, Wiffle Ball, help them across monkey bars, or just race each other across the field. I won’t tell you who normally wins those races…

Again, I know how much the daily grind can suck you in and you start to rely a little more on school for playing and socialization. However, doing those things outside of school is just as important. I try to be aware of it so that when I feel like it’s been a long week or a busy weekend where we were gogogo, I try to make sure we have that time to stop and play.

Added bonus: it’s just as beneficial to parents!

Want to learn more about the benefits of play? Check out some of these articles:

Why Playing Is So Effecting In Your Kids’ Developement

10 Things Every Parent Should Know About Play

Want Resilient and Well-Adjusted Kids? Let Them Play

2 thoughts on “The Importance of Play

  1. Niamh - Grab a Cuppa's avatar Niamh - Grab a Cuppa

    Absolutely, your insight on the importance of play for children is spot on! In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for parents and kids alike to get caught up in a whirlwind of activities and routines. Your reminder to stop and play is a valuable one.

    Playtime, whether through playdates with friends or family activities, offers children not only a chance to have fun but also to develop crucial skills. It’s a space where they can learn to interact, communicate, and problem-solve in an unstructured and creative environment.

    The idea of playing as a family is fantastic. Not only does it allow kids to bond with their parents, but it also sets a positive example. When parents engage in play, they demonstrate the importance of balance and taking time to enjoy life.

    Your acknowledgment of the “daily grind” and the need to consciously make time for play is something many parents can relate to. It’s a wonderful way to recharge, strengthen family bonds, and create lasting memories.

    Lastly, the added bonus you mention is so trueβ€”play is just as beneficial for parents! It’s an opportunity to unwind, de-stress, and connect with your inner child. Thank you for highlighting the significance of play in child development and family life. It’s a reminder we all need from time to time! πŸ€πŸŽ‰πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘©β€πŸ‘§β€πŸ‘¦

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