5 reasons children need to play

• Pretend play

Whether it’s shooting pretend enemies or playing with the dollhouse, there’s a whole lot going on when young kids use their imagination in play. Pretend play uses many parts of the brain, including language, movement, emotion, and thinking. It also helps kids figure out how things work and how they fit into the world, and it lets them explore new roles. Research has shown that kids who gets lots of pretend playing time are better at complicated thinking (known as “abstract thought”) and are more social. And you thought she was just playing with dolls!

• Block heads

Playing blocks may turn your kid into a math genius? Well, that might not quite be true. But there’s no question that playing is not only fun but that it has long-term effects on kids’ learning. In one study, researchers studied preschoolers who played with blocks and followed those same kids through high school. They found that by high school, the kids who played blocks had higher scores in math. Another study found that playing with blocks (or other construction toys) boosts problem-solving skills in kids.

• Board games

Board games teach kids about rules, decision making, taking turns, and social skills. The games can also help your child work on important early math skills like counting, as well as color and shape recognition.

• Recess games

Unfortunately, lots of schools are cutting back on recess to squeeze in more class time. But kids learn more if they’ve had a chance to play outside during the day. Studies have found that kids get less attentive as the day goes by without a break. When they have a recess break, they’re far more focused.

Recess also lets kids improve their social and communication skills, by learning to work together as they make up games and decide on rules, and by learning to resolve fights. So don’t let anyone tell you that recess is a waste of time — there’s important learning going on!

• Playing outside

With television, computers, and video games keeping kids inside, many are missing out on the joys of climbing on playground structures and trees, jumping in leaves, and simply running outdoors. Playing outside actually boosts kids’ academic achievement and improves their behavior.

Studies have shown that being outside also pushes kids’ imaginations and lowers their stress. Their pretend play becomes more intricate and diverse than when they just play indoors. Even when their mud-pie days are over, kids do better outdoors.

Students at schools that have an outdoor component score higher in critical thinking skills, math, reading, and behavior. Also, kids who have had little outdoor time tend to not do as well in the sciences in college. So even if you live in the city, get the kids out to your local park or playground for some regular outdoor play.

Original Source:  Great Schools

Nutcrackers Daycare Academy We are a family owned and operated academy that provides children with a strong foundation to begin their lives. Our teachers are highly trained and extremely attentive to support your child’s desire to explore and discover. Our passionate staff values the relationships we have with our families and work hard to involve them in all our activities and decisions. Our facility provides an openness inside and out for a child to feel free to explore, create, and learn in a safe, loving and developmentally appropriate environment. Contact at 713-842-7796.

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