A report just published in Pediatrics emphasizes the importance of “play in promoting healthy child development”. This article serves as a reminder that children need free play time to help them learn resilience and creativity and is important in helping a child to develop physically, emotionally and intellectually.

The New Year is the perfect time to resolve to spend time together just playing! I have noticed that the weather has been pretty mild across the country and I imagine there are plenty of children who may have been lucky enough to have received a bike, scooter, skates, a swing set, basketball hoop, soccer goal etc. for Christmas.  Now is the time to gather the family and go outside and enjoy some of these gifts.

There really is not a better time to bond than during a game of basketball with dad, or flag football with siblings, or to have mom go outside and swing!   I was lucky enough to have received a new bike (big tires, few gears and a bell) as well as a new helmet and I am already enjoying some bike riding with all of my adult children and husband. We are trying to make a commitment to ride together every weekend.  (More about New Year’s resolutions later)

Studies have shown that as recess has been taken out of schools and with cuts to park budgets as well, our children are not getting as many opportunities for free play. Just that good “ole” unstructured time on the playground for a game of tag, or hopscotch or four square, as well as time to climb and jump on the playground equipment. All of the experiences help a child to be creative and imaginative with their play which helps them build confidence and resilience as well.

I know parents are busy and many are working harder with the economy being the way that it is. But, if a family will just try to take 15 – 30 minutes a day to turn off the computer or TV after school or on the weekends and go outside for a walk, run, or some  free-play it might become a good habit!  There are many inexpensive ways to enjoying playtime which may only require a ball, sidewalk chalk or a jump rope. Being a creative parent who values playtime will help to encourage your child as well.

So, make the commitment to PLAY more!  Sounds like fun to me.