Think back to being six years old. What comes to mind?
Climbing trees, collecting tadpoles in the local creek, playing in the street racing your neighbour on your bike.
Those carefree, good feelings come over you like a wave.
Are today’s kids creating these memories, too? A lot of us parents grew up before computers were the norm. There were no iPhones, iPads, or anything remotely technological – we just played with what was in our house or in the neighbourhood
Kids learn a lot through play. The games kids play is important for cognitive development, and there’s many other benefits too. Let’s take a look at why play time is more than just fun and games.
How kids can develop skills through play
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Learn life and social skills
Kids learn to count when they’re playing hopscotch. They become problem solvers by figuring out how to maneuver up trees. Classroom learning can be complemented through creative play like this, one study suggests. They learn how to negotiate, communicate, cooperate, and share – all skills they’ll continue to use throughout their life.
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Play builds imagination
Kids live within their imagination. They don’t see everyday objects like we do, but rather in make-believe. A teddy bear becomes a baby. A sheet becomes a cape. Pretend play toys are awesome for getting their imaginations running, but when encouraged kid’s brilliant minds can turn anything into a prop for play. It gives them a sense of control, interpreting their surroundings and learning ways to behave.
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Promote physical development
Balance, strength, coordination, large motor skills and fine skills all improve through play. Climbing, skipping, running, throwing, and jumping are great ways to get your kids moving. Outdoor toys can be a great way to encourage them to get outside more. Physical exercise is beneficial for their stress levels, too (even though they won’t even recognise that emotion yet).
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Process emotions
While we’re on the topic of feelings. The thing about children is that they often don’t know how to express their emotions in words yet. Physical play can serve as their ‘voice’, helping them process things. Look out for behaviour that needs guidance or a quick discussion.
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Stay fit
In this technological explosion, it’s important to encourage your kids to play more instead of always looking at a screen. Teach them what it was like growing up when you did. They’re surrounded by kids talking about the latest devices all day long – give them a taste of the other way to grow up.
The next time your child wants to go play, say yes. What might be disguised as leisure is, in fact, learning. That game of hopscotch or imaginary fort under the table helps build their life skills. Prepare your kids for adulthood, and bring out your inner child again. You’re never too old to have fun.
