Play is not a waste of time…

“Schools have a big role because kids spend the greater part of their waking hours at school. It is important that we look at the importance of play-based learning. Play is not a waste of time, it is not time that is badly spent. Play, among human beings, has very important social benefits.” 

Sir Ken Robinson.

Today’s generation of children are spending more time online and considerably less time playing outdoors, a situation which could negatively impact their emotions, health, intelligence and creativity.

A recent survey revealed that 75% of children in the UK prefer playing digital games on a screen rather than playing physical sports outside.

Time spent playing enhances students’ social, emotional, physical and creative development. There is a relationship between play and creative problem solving, cooperation and logical thinking. The importance of outside playtime is about more than just a means for children to have fun and work out their energy. Access to outdoor play can have lifelong developmental, mental, and educational impacts on a child. Play can enhance early development by increasing adjustment, improving language skills and reducing emotional problems.

As well as supporting children’s development, play also helps keep children fit: longer playtime at school were associated with higher levels of physical activity, and improved physical health. As the number of primary school children leaving school obese continues to increase, it is becoming increasingly important that children are given sufficient time to exercise.

Finally, getting together outside of the classroom also enables young people to develop social skills. For some students playtime may be the only opportunity they have to interact with other young people in a safe, relaxed environment.  

While Educators and Parents continue to embrace the advantages of educational technologies and digital learning, it is important that we do not lose sight of the vital role that outdoor play provides in physical, emotional and intellectual development.