How Play Can Build Stronger Brains
Harvard University’s Center on the Developing Child recently shared some great ways that play can help children develop their brains. From playing “peek-a-boo” at 8 months to Sudoku at 8 years, play is a vital part of developing strong and flexible thinking skills. And, of course, it’s also fun!
“Playful interactions with adults help babies develop executive function skills, while older children need unstructured play and down time as their commitments like homework, sports, and clubs complicate their growing lives,” the Harvard CDC says. “Discovering ways to play is important at any age as children grow to find their way in the world, which is why it’s essential adults help encourage that productive play.”
On their website, the Harvard CDC lists several examples of play that aids in development. Divided by age group, the activities are easy to do and enjoyable for both parent/teacher and child. Learn about them at this link.
How Play Works
When children play, they’re engaging their imaginations while building essential skills that shape their brains and prepare them for future success. Here’s how:
Engaging in Playful Interactions
Play provides a safe and engaging space for children to explore their world, experiment with ideas, and develop crucial cognitive, social, and emotional skills. Through play, children learn to solve problems, think creatively, and navigate social situations.
Building Cognitive Skills
Play helps children develop essential cognitive skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and decision-making. Whether it’s building a tower, solving a puzzle, or engaging in pretend play, children are actively exercising their brains and strengthening their ability to focus, plan, and adapt.
Developing Social-Emotional Skills
Play also plays a vital role in fostering social-emotional development. Through interactions with peers and adults, children learn to cooperate, negotiate, and understand different perspectives. Play helps them develop empathy, manage emotions, and build self-confidence.
Enhancing Creativity and Imagination
Play is a powerful tool for nurturing creativity and imagination. When children engage in pretend play, they create their own worlds, experiment with different roles, and develop flexible thinking skills. This imaginative play fosters innovation and problem-solving abilities that extend far beyond the playground.
Learn More
There is a great deal of research on how play benefits children’s development. For more information, check out these links:
The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds (Pediatrics)
Play it Forward: Lasting Effects of Pretend Play in Early Childhood (Florida Atlantic University)
Supporting Children’s Learning Through Play (ChildCare.gov)