1. Play is a powerful learning tool.
Children learn as they play. Play is the laboratory where children discover new ideas and practice everyday skills like math, reading, and writing. There
are many types of play where children develop various skills such as:
- Problem solving
- Understanding cause & effect
- Getting along with others
- Managing emotions
- Using large and small muscle groups
2. Children need to play to stay healthy.
Children receive physical, mental, and emotional benefits from play. The active nature of play helps fight obesity and build strong muscles and bones.
Play also helps children reduce stress and be more joyful.
3. Parents can support learning by playing with their child.
By playing with your child, you can help develop critical skills he or she will need to be successful in school and in life. Thoughtful questions such as “What do you think will happen next?” can help expand his
or her thinking. Plus, you’ll have a lot of fun bonding and learning more about your child’s personality.
There is a lot to learn about play! Check out more articles for families on play from the National
Association for the Education of Young Children. For more resources about child development, visit thread’s Community Resources page.