Why Play Matters More Than Ever for Child Development

"When was the last time you saw a child completely absorbed in play-building a block tower, chasing friends through a backyard, or creating imaginary worlds with whatever materials they could find? These moments aren't just charming childhood memories in the making; they're essential building blocks for healthy development, according to a large body of research. The evidence on the importance of play is so strong that the American Academy of Pediatrics has issued a prescription for parents: Play with your child every day."

"But in an era of packed schedules, screen time, and intense focus on school readiness, many children are playing less than in previous generations. Compared to a generation ago, children are spending significantly more time with technology devices and less time exploring and taking risks -activities that allow children to learn and become independent. There has been a significant decline in play, especially outdoors."

"Her research reveals a troubling disconnect between what children need and what they're getting. "Classic developmental psychologists such as (Jean) Piaget and (Lev) Vygotsky theorized that children learn through play," Kopko said. Yet given the pace of contemporary life and busy parents, particularly in the United States, "play is often sacrificed to flash cards, electronic games, and learning activities with a focus on school readiness.""

Play is essential for social, emotional, and neurological development and builds executive function skills such as creativity, curiosity, and problem solving. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends daily play with a child to support healthy development. Contemporary life, packed schedules, increased screen time, and intense focus on school readiness have reduced children's unstructured and outdoor play. Children now spend more time with technology and less time exploring, taking risks, and becoming independent. A disconnect exists between children’s developmental needs and the play opportunities they receive. Parents should prioritize a range of play types and daily unstructured playtime.

Read at Psychology Today