Play is an essential part of a child's growth from birth on. It teaches him not only how to develop his motor and cognitive skills, but also how to use his imagination and interact with others. Play is so important, the United Nations High Commission for Human Rights has called it a fundamental entitlement. As a parent, you can nurture your child's play by understanding how he grows and learns.
Importance of Play
The American Academy of Pediatrics says that play is essential to physical, social, cognitive and emotional health. During structured and unstructured play, a child uses his imagination, strength, motor skills and decision-making abilities to explore his world, conquer his fears and gain confidence. Playing with other children or his parents, a child can engage with others and nurture relationships.
Birth to 1 Year
At birth, your baby may not be interested in playing just yet. During infancy, you can encourage the development of his senses. Place objects in his hand, sing to him and walk him from room to room so he can see different lights and objects. As he grows older, provide opportunities for him to learn to roll over and crawl. He will begin exploring his environment, so make sure it is safe for him to do so. Provide stable objects that he can use to pull himself up and begin to walk. At this age, he will be interested in nesting and stacking toys.
1 to 3 Years
During the toddler years, your child will go from walking to running. She will need safe things to push and climb on. Provide her with access to books and sensory items such as modeling clay and finger paint. She may want to color and will enjoy rolling balls back and forth with you. Give her containers that she can empty and fill with objects. At this stage, you may notice that she begins to use dramatic play. She will use what she learns in everyday life to nurture a baby doll, play house or re-enact real life. This type of simple play helps her develop an understanding of her world.
School-Age Children
A school-age child continues to use play to nurture relationships with others. At this age, he is able to play in a way that interacts with other children rather than simply playing alongside them. As he tries new things, he will continue to build his confidence. Active play becomes a form of exercise that is important for his fitness and health. He may get the majority of his play from neighborhood games or sports teams at this age.
Concerns
The American Academy of Pediatrics says some children do not receive enough play time at school or at home. Busy lifestyles and overscheduling can be stressful for a child and rob him of free play time. Some schools do not offer enough free time outdoors or time in a health and fitness class. Brain growth happens with changes in activity, and an active lifestyle is beneficial in physical and cognitive ways. Be sure your child is getting ample time for structured and unstructured activity.
