One of the most important things we can give to our children is the freedom to play. We must never underestimate the importance of play in the development of healthy children – mentally, physically and emotionally. In fact, it is so important it has been recognised by the United Nations High commission for Human Rights as a right of every child.

75% of brain development happens between birth and early 20s, and play develops both gross and fine motor skills. I remember my child’s Reception teacher explaining that a lack of gross motor skills would impinge on his ability to write and manage his hands. So throwing and catching, climbing, and sports will, strangely, help your child to write, draw and sew in later life!

Creativity
Play stimulates imagination and creativity – vital not only for artistic expression, but also for problem solving and innovation in adult life. The ability to imagine ‘what if’ stems from a creative brain, well fed in childhood. Good to know, as we are growing the adults and problem solvers of the future!

Play also develops executive brain function – your child’s ability to manage their emotions, social situations and apply self- control and self- discipline, which is a vital part of coping with a busy modern life. Over-scheduling your children therefore can lead to problems in later life, rather than giving them the edge as many parents are led to believe.

Pretend play develops empathy in children – the ability to imagine how someone else may feel – which enhances a child’s compassion and tolerance for difference in later life. Beginning with playing with dolls and leading to ‘playing schools’ or playing ‘mums and dads’ gives a voice to characters and the opportunity to try on a different identity.

Get involved
So how can parents support their child in learning through play? Through ‘free play’, which is mainly unstructured and without cost, offering children the ability to mix with others, find a partner for their ideas and navigate their way through the various personalities they meet in other children.

“Children don’t need toys, they need things to play with”. Offering the building blocks of play – cardboard boxes, dressing up materials, a ‘making box’ full of recyclables for art and building projects – will ensure children are stimulated and able to achieve their ideas, raising self -esteem.

Of course the best thing you can do is play with your child, which not only entertains them but enhances the emotional bonds and trust between you, as well as lowering stress hormones in both you and your child, creating a safe, fun place to be and in turn a healthy, happy family.

In the modern age of overwhelming reliance on technology, the decision to simply grab a few bedsheets and make a tent under the table, or play a game of ‘Snap’ on the carpet on a rainy afternoon, will offer a much needed respite – a calmer environment in which everyone can relax a little, laugh a lot and enjoy each other’s’ company.