Too much screen time isn't good at all for our kids, 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...).
As a children's author focused on imaginative, education-forward storytelling, I've seen firsthand how active and imaginative play is fundamental to a child's overall healthy development. The contrast couldn't be starker: passive screen consumption versus the rich brain-muscle engagement that comes from real, unstructured play. 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? When kids are physically fit and capable, they naturally feel more confident in everything they do.
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Enhances mood - If you're outside, you are getting Vitamin D, which improves mood among many other benefits. Off-screen play also helps children cultivate joy and peace in their mind, heart, and body — something no app can replicate.
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Strengthens the 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). 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 and compassion - When playing with others, kids develop cooperation, friendship, and empathy through teamwork and imagination. Offline play actively nurtures emotional qualities like compassion in ways that screen-based interaction simply doesn't.
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Develops appreciation for nature - Spending time outside interacting with the world — hearing the birds, feeling the wind — naturally builds an appreciation for how nature can be a cure for the soul. This is something screens can show but never truly give.
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Boosts sense of independence - When parents give their children a chance to play freely, kids develop a sense of ownership over their decisions in a safe environment. They work through obstacles on their own, building the strong minds and bodies they need to thrive.
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Increases self-reflection and resilience - So it takes a child 5 times to cross that balance beam at the park? Each attempt builds critical thinking, persistence, and the ability to learn from failure and bounce back. Play is one of the most powerful — and most natural — ways children practice courage.
- Encourages patience and critical thinking - We live in an instant gratification world. But imaginative play is unpredictable and requires children to think, adapt, and wait. This nurtures creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking while helping children withstand both physical and emotional difficulties.
These are just some of the many benefits kids get from playing. It's something they naturally want to do anyway — so give them the freedom and encouragement to get out there!
Play Is Where Life Lessons Come Alive
In my Fassa Tails books and activity workbooks, I've built this philosophy in from the start. When children engage with stories and then act out or explore the themes through play and activities, they drive the lessons home. Values like courage, persistence, and friendship aren't just read about — they're practiced. That hands-on space is where real learning happens.
How You Can Get Those Kids Playing!
- 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 and build strong minds and bodies.
- Model Healthy Behavior: Children often mimic adult behavior. Limiting your own screen time sets a powerful 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! My children's books and activity workbooks are designed specifically to bridge storytelling and play — helping kids build imagination, practice life skills, and develop joy and peace from the inside out. 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!