Why Play Is So Important For Children

"Over the years of working with children, I have seen many circumstances supporting the importance of play for appropriate development. This is also something supported quite strongly in the research on child development. Engaging in appropriate play activities is helpful for children to develop important skills needed for interacting with other people. It is also essential for learning effective approaches for dealing with the challenges individuals face as they grow up" - Dr Daniel Marston

Freely chosen play helps children and young people’s healthy development. Some of the main reasons why Play improves the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and young people are below:

Through playing, children learn about the world and themselves too.

They also learn skills they need for study, work and relationships such as:

• confidence

• self-esteem

• resilience

• interaction

• social skills

• independence

• curiosity

• coping with challenging situations

And meanwhile "Freely chosen play" is important as well.

Freely chosen play is when a child decides and controls their play following their own instincts, imagination and interests. They play without being led by adults.

There’s no right or wrong way to play. Freely chosen play improves children’s health, well-being and development.

What do you think about children play? do you leave your children play alone? Do you let them play in playgrounds and without you or any other sibilings?