The power of play
SOCIETY has changed dramatically over the last 50 years, driven by advances in science and technology. Children are maturing at a younger age.
These days, children have tight schedules with structured activities. There is often little time left to play.
Playing is a way children learn about themselves and the world. It is through playing that children learn to get along with others and to sort out conflicts.
It is through play that children practise their language skills and develop their motor skills.
In addition, play encourages independence, self-esteem, creativity. It is also an outlet to the children’s energy.
Playtime is often equated with fun and laughter. Recent research has found that laughter is a powerful and cost-free way to boost your mood and psychological well-being. The body releases endorphins and relieves stress as a natural physiological response to the physical act of laughing. That’s what makes play worthwhile – it elevates the state of mind.
Exposure to violence can alter the way children feel and behave. Therefore, it is important to create an environment and social climate that protects children and allows them to play without fear.
Playing is a way children learn about the world and learn how to deal with conflicts. They should feel secure and comfortable in their surroundings, and have the opportunity to play freely.
Children develop best in a caring community where they are safe and valued, where their physical needs are met, and they feel psychologically secure.
While solitary play is important, it is in group play that children learn how to get along with others. Through group play, children experience group processes of thought and learn how to compromise with others. In that sense, play is real-life learning. It prepares children for the everyday experience of interacting with others.
Taking a back-to-basics approach can be an easy and fun way to incorporate play into your child’s weekly schedule. Provide toys that reflect the love and nurturing nature of the family.
Children’s imagination and social skills thrive when they play with toys that provide them the opportunity to express similar emotions to what they see at home, whether it’s a farmer taking care of animals, or a play house with a pretend family.
Also, the backyard or neighbourhood playground is ideal for physical, active play. Running alongside a youngster who is just learning to ride a tricycle or skates is a great exercise for both participants.
Although children are kept busy with such activities, parents will feel a reasonable balance between structured activities and free time.
By making sure there’s enough time for play in a child’s schedule, a parent often ensures that the child has time to be just that – a child.
• For details, look out for the Mattel or Fisher Price’s advertisement in this Starspecial.