When it comes to a child’s health and development, play is more than just a chance to have fun. The various forms of play, such as hide-and-seek, dramatic play, and centers, have a significant positive impact on a child’s brain, body, and quality of life. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ (AAP) clinical report, The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in Enhancing Development in Young Children, explains how and why playing with parents and peers is essential to developing healthy bodies, brains, and social connections—all things that are crucial in today’s society. According to research, play can help kids become more organized, plan ahead, get along with others, and control their emotions. Play also improves language, numeracy, social abilities, and even helps kids deal with stress.
Statistics reveal that, in spite of its many advantages, children’s playtime has been decreasing for decades. One explanation is that there are less safe places to play, more parents are working outside the home, family and school routines are rigidly organized, and media use and screen time are on the rise. Our STEAM lab has many stations set up one of which is a dramatic play area with a store, kitchen, and more. They role play which helps with oral language skills, cooperate, and have fun all while learning! Just check out these kindergarteners hard at work AND play!
