Winter break is over, and most families have already returned work and school. Whether you’ve sent your kids back to their institution or chosen to enroll them online, you’ve probably noticed the healthy number of assignments that have been passed out in the new year. As we all struggle to get back into the swing of normal life, it’s important to remember that playtime is just as important as homework. No matter how old your kids are, they deserve a chance to relax and be themselves.
Improving Imagination, Memory, and Comprehension
Although playtime is often seen as nothing more than a break from work, recent studies have shown that it can be an important part of a child’s cognitive development. The reason for this is that playing is the standard way in which young children engage with the world. Playing can take the form of imagining fake scenarios, manipulating toys and other objects, or simply exploring an environment and making use of the various senses that are so new to a young soul.
Children who are allowed to play have stronger memories, more creative imaginations, and better decision making skills. The best way to let children play is to give them free access over a curated environment full of interesting materials. As they choose their own activities and make their own decisions, they’ll learn a sense of self confidence that can be difficult to replace later in life.
Creating Healthy Relaxation Habits
Relaxation is an important skill that many people forget to learn during their early years. People who are not allowed to play when they are younger often complain about their inability to unwind during their adult lives.
Although the correct ratio of work and play varies based on the child’s age, the truth is that even older children should be given several hours to themselves on a daily basis. Parents should recognize that there will be plenty of time to work during their child’s teenage and adult years. While they are young, kids should be allowed to exist comfortable in the world that their parents have made for them.
As you’re helping your kids create healthy playtime habits, remember that many play activities count as work for small kids. Remind them to take actual breaks from games, art projects, and anything else that demands attention for an extended period of time.
Forging Strong Parental and Sibling Relationships
Playtime isn’t just about allowing a kid to run off on their own. Most of the strong memories that help forge a child’s personality are created by playing with their family members and friends. Even spending one or two hours a week engaging with your child’s favorite activities can help them learn who you are and create a parental relationship that lasts a lifetime.
When your child is younger, they will probably want to involve you in their games of imagination. As they get older, they may want your assistance with complicated building projects; they may also want you to play a round of their favorite game. The important thing is that you spend time learning about the things that your child likes to do. When they grow up, they’ll remember how well you supported the development of their personality.
Playtime is about allowing your child to explore the world and learn what kind of person they want to be. From dressing up dolls to running around in the back yard, all of the classic activities of childhood are important. Kids who are allowed to play grow into adults who are healthy, happy, and capable of taking on the entire world.