You’re never too old for playtime
Parents urged to join in their children’s games and have fun themselves
We all know how important playtime is for our children’s development. Not only can it help them to understand their surroundings, but it will also teach them how to share and relax.
It seems that parents themselves are not practicing what they preach as research by London 2012 sponsor, Cadbury, has revealed that only (54%) of adults have played a game with their family in the past year.
So why are we neglecting this opportunity to spend quality time together? Well the research has shown that nearly one in three (30%) say we do not have time; one in five (19%) are too busy at work and one in four (23%) are too busy with other commitments.
Yet despite our hectic lifestyles a new report has shown that we should be making time for family games. It will help you relax, switch off and just have a good old giggle – what better therapy for the soul?
And don’t underestimate the other benefits it can bring, Dr Stuart Brown MD, founder of the National Institute for Play says, “Play is the most freely available resource that bonds generations. We have allowed this play-force to diminish and become trapped in a work-dominated adult world. Play enhances a sense of safety and trust with others, which allows better bonding. Good social play allows a sense of belonging. Thus cooperation and community are enhanced by infusing individuals, families and communities with healthy play opportunities and knowledge.”
So what, according to Dr Brown, are the benefits of play?
Play connects us to others: Sharing laughter and fun with others promotes bonding and strengthens a sense of community. We develop trust, empathy, compassion and the capacity for intimacy through regular play.
Play fosters creativity, flexibility, and learning: Play stimulates our imaginations, helping us adapt and solve problems. Play arouses curiosity, which leads to discovery and creativity.
Play is an antidote to loneliness and depression: When we play vigorously, we trigger a mix of endorphins that lift our spirits and distractions that distance us from pain, fear and other burdens. And when we play with other people, with friends and family, we are reminded that we are not alone in this world.
Play teaches us perseverance: The rewards of learning or mastering a new game teach us that perseverance is worthwhile. Perseverance is a trait necessary to healthy adulthood, and it is learned largely through play.
Play makes us happy: Beyond all these excellent reasons for playing, there is simply the sheer joy of it.
But what about those of us who say we are too busy?
Well Dr Brown thinks the distraction can actually help us cope, “As we become adults, taking time to play feels like a guilty pleasure – a distraction from “real” work and life. But play actually equips us to cope with a changing world with flexibility and optimism.”
So dust off those games, it looks like playtime is making a comeback!
For more information visit
www.spotsvstripes.com
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