Play is important for a child's development, and it needs to be incorporated into early learning activities. Children learn via play about the world, themselves, and other people. Although everyone plays differently, there are four reasons why play is crucial for kids:
1) Play Develops Imagination and Creativity
When playing, kids invent games or lose themselves in their imaginations. Children's imaginations run wild, and as a result, they generate ideas, weigh their possibilities, and think creativity. Children who play imaginatively are more adept at telling tales and creating their own narratives.
When given creative tasks to complete, like painting or crafting play dough, children show creativity in unexpected ways.
2) Improves Intelligence
Play encourages cognitive development by involving kids in decision-making, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Children explore, experiment, and make sense of their surroundings through play.
Children develop their ability to classify things, sort and categorize them, create connections, and use logic in their play. They play imaginatively, make up stories, and use symbolic thinking, all of which establish the groundwork for future educational abilities.
3) Language and Communication Skills
Because it enables young children to practice new words when speaking and attempting to comprehend others, pretend play is especially advantageous. They frequently respond to each other's comments and behaviours in order to come to agreements during social play.
Children learn about social norms and expectations through play, which also gives them the chance to communicate, listen, and come to compromises.
4) Play Promotes Physical Fitness
Children's bodies need to be active. Physical play, which includes all forms of play that keep kids moving, is something that they require a lot of. It helps them develop their body awareness and strengthens neural connections. Play is a necessary sort of exercise that encourages kids to be active and healthy.
We can improve children's learning, development, and all-around wellbeing during these vital early years by appreciating the value of play.
Sources:
Zapata, Kimberly. “The Importance of Play: How Kids Learn By Having Fun.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 28 Sept. 2020, https://www.healthline.com/health/the-importance-of-play#when-kids-dont-play.
“The Power of Play: 6 Benefits for Child Development | Edmonton Public Library.” Edmonton Public Library, 8 Apr. 2021, https://www.epl.ca/blogs/post/importance-of-play-for-kids/#:~:text=Play%20Builds%20Imagination%20and%20Creativity,adapt%20those%20rules%20as%20needed.
Li, Pamela. “Importance of Play in Early Childhood (9 Benefits & Infographic).” Parenting For Brain, 18 Dec. 2016, https://www.parentingforbrain.com/benefits-play-learning-activities-early-childhood/.
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