Are you getting enough ‘play’ in your life? Why playtime is important for children & adults

Why playtime is important for children & adults

Are you getting enough PLAY time in your life? It can seem like a silly question but our relationship with the term play as we grow into adults seems to narrow and almost lose all sense of the word.

So let’s explore the notion of play and see how we can better incorporate it into our lives especially since it can also enhance our learning (yes that’s right).

Research around play + learning

It has been shown that fun experiences increase levels of dopamine endorphins, and oxygen – all things that promote learning. Judy Willis explores this in her book Neurologist.

More research has shown that if you can have joy when learning you retain the information longer.

This research suggests that superior learning takes place when classroom experiences are enjoyable and relevant to students' lives, interests, and experiences. Many education theorists (Dulay & Burt, 1977; Krashen, 1982) have proposed that students retain what they learn when the learning is associated with strong positive emotion. Cognitive psychology studies provide clinical evidence that stress, boredom, confusion, low motivation, and anxiety can individually, and more profoundly in combination, interfere with learning (Christianson, 1992).

Resource: The Neuroscience of Joyful Education by Judy Willis

Playtime through the lens of childhood development

Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength. Play is important to healthy brain development. It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them. Play allows children to create and explore a world they can master, conquering their fears while practicing adult roles, sometimes in conjunction with other children or adult caregivers. As they master their world, play helps children develop new competencies that lead to enhanced confidence and the resiliency they will need to face future challenges. Resource, Pediatrcicsaaapplications.

The benefits of play

We know now play is integral for a child’s development but it is beneficial for people of all ages. Adding more play into our lives can reduce stress, increase learning and deeper connect you to the world and others.

Playtime alone or including your pet can have huge benefits, noted that you should try include playtime away from electronic gadgets and sensory-overload scenarios.

Resource HelpGuide

The importance of adult play

Play for adults can help relieve stress, improve brain function, stimulate the mind and boost creativity, improve relationships with and your connection to others & keep you feeling young and energetic.

Resource HelpGuide  

OK I want to play- but where to start?

If you are stuck on where to start, here are a few ideas to help kickstart your fun journey.

Think back to when you were younger, what was fun to you? What did you enjoy playing? What did you lose track of time doing? These responses could be worth revisiting and re-spark a new hobby that brings play back into your life.

Inspiring quotes

"Play is the Highest Form of Research" - Albert Einstein

“Play gives children a chance to practice what they are learning.” -Mr. Rogers

“The creation of something new is not accomplished by the intellect but by the play instinct.” -Carl Jung

“Almost all creativity involves purposeful play.” – Abraham Maslow

Play and fun means something different to everyone. What do you do for fun? Try to make time for fun a priority in your daily habits and see what it does for you.

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