Importance of Play in Child Development

Play is an essential part of child development, and it’s importance cannot be understated. Play allows children to explore the world around them, learn new things, and develop relationships. Studies have shown that play can have a massive impact on a child’s growth and development in a variety of areas, including social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development. If you’re looking for ways to help your child thrive, make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for play! See what the studies say below!

Importance of play in child development

Child’s Play is Learning

“Play is not frivolous: it enhances brain structure and function and promotes executive function (ie, the process of learning, rather than the content), which allow us to pursue goals and ignore distractions.” – American Academy of Pediatrics
According to JSTOR, indoor play can lead to higher IQ by age three.
American Psychologist Association have shown playing, and free play increases creativity among kids. So more play is better!

Better Communicators from Playing

Studies show play betters achievements in pre-reading, language and writing levels – Psychology in Schools

Better Social Skills and Emotional Control

Gayler & American Psychologist Association have shown pretend play leads to improved emotional regulation.
Increased emotional control has been linked with better social success – Denham et al.
Doyle and Connolly showed that pretend play and enacting improve social acceptance and negotiations skills! No, you can’t go to bed later…

Some sources and studies go so far to say play increases brain size, IQ and social skills! Play is incredibly powerful in a child development. So more play is definitely better!

Knowing the importance of play in child development will help plan that next adventure.

For more ways to get play recommendations, check out the Parent Smart Assistant.