In today’s busy life, as adults, indulging in hobbies may be seen as a ‘waste of time’. Similarly for children, academic and extracurricular activities are taking over, leaving little time for play, resulting in the loss of its numerous benefits.
With the advent of recent technologies, such as tablets, some types of play, which are beneficial for the child are slowly being discarded. To optimize the amount of time and level of play children have, time spent watching television and playing on the tablet can be replaced with more ‘old-fashioned’ play which includes using toys like blocks or clay. These types of toys allow them to make up their own games and rules, allowing them to use their imagination.
Play is important for a great number of reasons. As it:
- Helps enhance creativity
- Helps to express themselves
- Allows them to channel energy and remain physically active
- Allows them to explore and master the world around them, therefore helping to build confidence
- Through playing with other children, they learn to negotiate, resolve disagreements and gain group skills
In conclusion, it is safe to say that, with the number of benefits which come with it, play, although momentarily entertaining, helps prepare the child for the future. The benefits surrounding play aid children’s development physically, socially, emotionally and in their future career.
– Alessia Camilleri is a first year Bachelor of Psychology (Hons.) student at the University of Malta. She is particularly interested in the counselling and family therapy. Alessia is an intern at Willingness.com.mt.