Play is a critical component of healthy childhood development, so let’s do more of it!

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

There was a time, in a distant world where children learned that they were in control of their own lives. It’s one of the few aspects of their world where they could: make decisions, experiment and experience the consequences of their actions.

Unfortunately over time, there were shifts in this distant world that stripped away the opportunity for play, denying children the chance to learn self-control and autonomy. It was through interaction, and play that children learned how to get along with their peers. They learn to see from others’ perspectives, practice empathy and move beyond self-centeredness.These social skills became foundational for building relationships and functioning effectively in society.

Yes, this distant world is actually circa 1950’s – 2000 (and even further back) a time when play meant being outside with our friends, playing tag, riding our bikes, and making sure we were home before the street lights came on. Then all of a sudden, there was a decline in playtime, and this came with a decrease in vital social skills, which has now contributed to increased social isolation and a lack of empathy. It is a shame really. Our children are missing out on understanding how to navigate their environment and manage their own lives effectively.

Let’s enter the new digital world and make some comparisons. In today’s digital age, the essence of play is steadily vanishing from the lives of many children. Now, parents are resorting to using electronic devices as pacifiers and babysitters, leading to a generation of whining, screaming screen addicts. This shift has significant implications, as our children are: spending less time playing outside, engaging with toys, or interacting with each other. What we are not taking into consideration are the consequences of this trend, and how far-reaching and detrimental it has become to our future generations development.

“Play is where children learn that they’re in control of their own life. It’s really the only place they are in control of their own life. When we take that away we don’t give them a chance to learn how to control their own life.” Peter Gray, Ph. D.

It is important to understand the implications of this shift, and today I am going to point out a few of them. When children play, it opens an opportunity to encounter and solve various problems, which helps them realize that the world is not an inherently scary place. They learn to approach challenges with creativity and resilience, developing the confidence needed to face obstacles in life. Without play, this crucial aspect of growth is stunted, leaving children less prepared to handle life’s complexities. Look at how hard it is for us who actually had the opportunity to play; how is handling life complexities working out for you?

Remember the joy that you felt when you knew that you were going to have a chance to play with your friends outside. Play has always been a source of joy and an avenue for experiencing happiness. It teaches children that life can be enjoyable and that the world is not just a place of stress and pressure. These types of positive emotional experiences are essential for mental health, and provide a buffer against depression and anxiety, which thanks to the pandemic have become regular challenges to navigate for our children.

Play is inherently creative and innovative. When play is minimized, so too is the development of these innovative capabilities. I remember thinking about, and fantasizing about distant worlds. I would read, or watch something on television and find a way to bring it to life through the art of play. It encouraged me to use my imagination, think outside the box and come up with new ideas. This creativity has not only been essential for my personal fulfillment, but also for my future success in various fields.

I know parents;with how tough things are in our society, it is hard to find time to focus on playing with your children when you are focusing more of your time figuring out how you are going to keep a roof over their head, and their belly’s fed. The thing is we have to really weigh out the benefits. When parents engage in play, they contribute to their children’s: learning, emotional well-being and social competence. When you outsource your children’s time to smart devices, you miss invaluable opportunities to bond with your children and help build essential skills. Playing with children not only strengthens the relationship you have with your child, it also provides a platform for parents to guide and nurture their children’s development.

Despite the clear benefits of play, there is a growing trend towards prioritizing more structured education and screen time over free play. I don’t want us to stray too far from the fact that to foster well-rounded, competent individuals, we must recognize and reinstate the importance of play in children’s lives. By doing so, we ensure that children grow up: capable, resilient, joyful, and equipped with the skills needed to navigate their world successfully.

Play is frivolous activity. Activity that is a critical component of healthy childhood development. As a community let us find ways to include play in the events that we put on, and continue to equip children with the skills they need to: navigate their world, build relationships and thrive emotionally.