What is Play
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Definition
Benefits of Play
Physical Benefits
Emotional Benefits
Mental Benefits
Social Benefits
Activity
Benefits of Play: Emotional
Engaging in play helps children to gain self-confidence and increase self-esteem. Play is also thought to reduce or eliminate symptoms of stress and depression, and is an effective way to help children, in the words of children's songwriter Raffi, 'shake their sillies out', so they can focus on other necessary tasks. When the child has fun and enjoyment in their playtime, they will 'feel good' about themselves and about what they're doing. There are many ways through which play can produce these benefits that will stay with them throughout their lives.
Self Concept / Self Esteem
A child's self-confidence and self-esteem are enhanced through play when they are able to achieve the goals that they set. This achievement through play will enable the child to appraise his or her own strengths and abilities, and as a result the child will develop self-confidence, and a sense of accomplishment. The experience of success is provided through play leading children to accept future challenges.Express Feelings
Play allows for a healthier, more socially acceptable way of expressing one's feelings and opinions. Children are able to express negative emotions through play which will in turn reduce aggression. Expressing feelings through play will allow a child to work through their problems, rather than internalizing them. In doing this the child will be forming a basis for a healthy emotional, mental, social, and physical well-being by learning how to manage their emotions in a socially acceptable way.Experience Happiness and Joy
Play provides great pleasure, joy, and freedom. Through play children will learn to embrace humor and laughter. These are crucial components for building effective coping skills and relaxation techniques. In addition they will help to reduce stress through the experience of fun.« Previous | Next »
This online resource has been created through a collaborative project of the National Center on Physical Activity and Disability (NCPAD) with content and design development by the National Center on Accessibility (NCA) and the Indiana University School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation. This project is funded through a grant from the Division of Human Development and Disability at the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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