10 Benefits Of Playtime - Yes, It's Time to Play!
Posted June 14, 2016 by Fort Magic
Underestimating the importance of play in the early years of development and growth of children is a mistake well-meaning parents often make. Playtime is as important for kids as working is for adults. They learn, grow, and become better people from playing. Plus, it is the ultimate way for them to learn, reduce stress, and exercise their creativity. So, what are the benefits of play? Consider ten benefits of playtime for your kids.
1. Improve behavior
That 15 minutes of recess in school ensures that kids come to the classroom with happy faces. Observations show that kids display better behavior when they are given their share of playtime. They forget their troubles on the playground and unwind after being in a disciplined classroom setting. Having time out refreshes them to focus on their lessons again once recess is over. And the benefits of learning through play extend from recess to inside the classroom.
2. Learn behavior
Playtime with other kids will teach them how to play nicely and the right ways to play with a team. The benefits of play in early childhood also include learning to accomplish tasks with their friends. Kids also learn how to lead and to follow. Working together as a team is a lifelong skill. From group projects in school to getting a job in the future, your kids need to learn how to lead and follow others to accomplish a common goal.
3. Develop social skills
The importance of play in the early years is that playtime makes your kids sensitive towards the feelings of others. Kids learn to negotiate, cooperate, and adjust with others. It allows them to adapt to different situations, and sometimes it may mean giving up their favorite toy as well! These are crucial lessons to help them handle all types of social situations that arise as they get older. From their first dance to their first job interview, these initial lessons on social skills matter for years to come.
4. Stay active
What are more of the benefits of play? Active kids turn into active adults! Observations show that children who engage in a minimum of 2 hours of physical activity rather than those who sit in front of the television or video games all day are more active in the later years of their lives. Encourage your kids to get up and get moving instead of being sedentary. The benefits of play in early childhood will become a habit that improves their overall well-being as adults.
5. Enhance learning
All work and no play make Jack a dull boy! All play and no work makes Jack a dull boy! The new motto is, “Learn with play makes Jack a smart boy!” Research shows that replacing playtime with academic time is a national crisis. Instead, it is important to achieve a good balance. This further emphasizes the benefits of learning through play. This also teaches children the importance of taking time out as they get older and their personal schedules become busier.
6. Enrich imagination and activity
Imaginative play is an important part of your child’s world. It is no secret that kids are the source of imagination. Engaging kids in play encourages and enriches their imagination and creativity. They grow up to believe in a world of possibilities and are not confined by borders. They can think outside the usual and come up with innovative solutions at school, at home, and in the future, at work. The importance of play in the early years far extends from what they are doing now!
7. Physical development
Activities like skipping enhance balance, climbing monkey bars gives strength, and sports activities improve physical growth and flexibility. Games such as building blocks or fort building improve hand-eye coordination and creative dexterity. Encourage your child to engage in a variety of activities for a stronger mind and body. Diversity also combats boredom and keeps playtime fun!
8. Express emotions
Children express their feelings through their stories, drawings, and artwork before they start expressing in words. When they go through tough experiences, they immediately show their emotions through their actions during playtime. This is a wonderful release for children who might not yet know how to put their feelings into words. It encourages them to express themselves and move on.
9. Relieve stress
If you see that your child is cranky all the time, give them more time to play. Parents often find their kids are grouchy when they are not allowed enough time to play. When you skip playtime, kids can become more grumpy and reserved. Playing is a wonderful way for them to reduce stress and feel in control of this aspect of their lives. A formerly edgy child suddenly becomes all happiness and smiles!
10. Because it’s fun!
Childhood is the age to have fun and enjoy life. Quite simply, it’s a lot of fun to play! Get on your child’s level and play games together. This is a great way to make memories together. Plus, you will find yourself feeling less stressed and having a good time. No child should be deprived of a playful childhood! Plus, these children will recognize the importance of playtime when they have a family of their own someday.
Did this help you understand what are the benefits of play? Did you think playtime was just leisure time? Phew!
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Photo Credits:
Learn With Play At Home Blog: An inspiring educational blog created by a primary teacher that strongly believes in making learning FUN & seamless through childhood playtime ideas and activities.
The Artful Parent Blog: One of our absolute favorite creative blogs for children and families. The Artful Parent blog is filled with simple ideas to fill your family’s life with art and creativity. A must-see blog for sure.
Epic Childhood Blog: A wonderful family blog about everyday fun and educational activities inspired by play-based learning, learning through play, enriched outdoor play, and creative play.
You Clever Monkey: A fun blog with lots of ideas for home and school encouraging children to think, to explore, to question, to contribute, to respect, to create, to play, to engage, to pretend, to care, to communicate, to be confident, to become all that is promised to them.
1+1+1=1: The 1plus1plus1equals1 Blog is a fantastic resource on Homeschooling and educational learning ideas from tots to big kids.
Fort Magic Customer Photos via Facebook: Visit our Fort Magic Facebook page to see our customer creativity shine with fun pics and videos of families enjoying their Fort Magic kit during playtime.
Fort Magic Customer Photos via Instagram: Visit our Fort Magic Instagram page to see our customer creativity shine with fun pics and videos of families enjoying their Fort Magic kit during playtime.
