· By S. S. Coulter
8 Benefits of Free Play for Kids' Development
In previous posts, I've listed quite a few statistics showcasing the harms of too much screen time for our kids. It isn't good at all, and I believe as a society we need to turn this ship around and work together to make childhood "screen-lite." I say "lite" vs. "free" because screens are a part of every day life and do have benefits, but it's when we use them to babysit our kids or as a substitute for social interaction and outdoor play, we are heading down a dark road (or "winding river" so I don't mix metaphors...).
One way we can right this ship is getting our kids to play more. And since May is Mental Health Awareness Month, I thought I'd list the many ways free play benefits our kids' brains!
8 Ways Free Play Benefits Kids' Brains
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Boosts self-confidence - extended time playing allows kids to practice skills like kicking, catching, and batting. Who doesn't want to do better when you're in recess or playing your chosen sport? I'd also add that when kids are physically fit, they will naturally feel more confident.
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Enhances mood - if you're outside, you are getting Vitamin D, which improves mood among many other benefits.
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Strengthens ability to be calm and relax - I would have never made it through school without morning recess, lunch recess, and afternoon recess (plus PE, art, and music thrown in there). Are you kidding? Let's get those kids outside, moving their little bodies, and releasing pent-up energy so they can be calm and concentrate when needed.
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Increases social skills - when playing with others, kids develop social skills like cooperation, friendship, and empathy because they use teamwork and imagination to play a variety of games, anywhere from make believe to tag.
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Develops appreciation for nature - if you spend time outside interacting with the world, hearing the birds, feeling the wind, you naturally will develop an appreciation for how being in nature can be a cure for your soul.
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Boosts sense of independence - when parents give their children a chance to play freely with other kids, in a playground, or at the park, kids have a sense of ownership over their decisions and actions in a safe environment and can work through issues/obstacles on their own without constant parental supervision.
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Increases self-reflection and resilience - so it takes a child 5 times to cross that balance beam at the park? But he learned each time, changed his approach a few times, and kept going until he nailed it. What an amazing, safe way to learn to learn from failure, bounce back, and pursue success.
- Encourages patience - we live in an instant gratification world. But if you're playing - especially outside - the world can be unpredictable. So patience must be employed to deal with uncomfortable situations, which in turn helps children be more capable of withstanding both physical and emotional difficulties.
These are just some of the many benefits kids get from playing. Amazing, isn't it? It's something they naturally want to do anyway, so give them freedom and encouragement to get out there!
How You Can Get Those Kids Playing!
Please check out Balancing Screen Time for Kids: 3 Effective Strategies and Fostering Curiosity in Kids: 10 Effective Strategies about ways to combat this phenomenon, but here’s some more guidance:
- Set Boundaries: Establish clear rules about screen time usage, ensuring children have ample time for offline activities.
- Encourage Physical Activity: Promote outdoor play and physical exercise to help reduce anxiety levels.
- Model Healthy Behavior: Children often mimic adult behavior. Limiting your own screen time can set a positive example.
- Open Communication: Talk to your children about their online experiences and feelings, fostering an environment where they feel comfortable sharing concerns.
How Can I Help You?
This is a mission for all of us, and I am here for you! Please check out my children’s books and free activities. They are here to help you help your kids get playing and building their imagination muscles!
More information and resources:
How Screen Time Affects Children’s Motor Skills
Beware! Screen Time Impacts Kids’ Emotional Health
Why Should Kids Play Outside? Benefits of Outdoor Play for Kids by Miracle