The Psychological Benefits of Play for Children
Play is more than just fun; it is essential for a child’s psychological well-being. Through play, children develop emotional resilience, social skills, and cognitive abilities that help them navigate life’s challenges.
Article 31 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC, 1989) states the right of all children to have rest and leisure, to engage in play and recreational activities and to participate in cultural life and the arts.
There have been concerns that play is not regarded as important or given the important status it deserves. Over time, there have been debates whether opportunities for play for children has reduced - whether it is being reduced by the demand of the curriculum in schools, outdoor/green spaces under threat in our communities, or it being removed as a punishment from some children due to their negative behaviours.
Whether engaging in imaginative storytelling, physical activities, or interactive games, play provides numerous psychological benefits that shape a child's mental health and development:
Social Development
Engaging in group play helps children develop key social skills such as cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution. By interacting with us as adults and their peers, they learn to share, negotiate, and develop empathy—skills that are essential for building healthy relationships throughout life.
Cognitive Growth
Play also enhances cognitive development by fostering creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Activities like puzzles, role-playing, and strategy games encourage children to explore new ideas, practice decision-making, and strengthen their ability to focus and adapt to new challenges.
Stress Reduction and Mental Well-Being
Play is seen as a natural stress reliever. It allows children to release pent-up energy, process experiences, and engage in activities that bring them joy. This leads to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and greater emotional stability, helping them develop a positive outlook on life.
Encouraging Play for Mental Health
To support a child’s psychological well-being, parents, carers and schools encourage both structured and free play. Providing opportunities for creativity, outdoor exploration, and social interaction helps children develop the emotional and cognitive skills they need for a healthy mind. Play was recommended as a key step in helping children move forward and recover from the effects of lockdown after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Emotional Resilience
Play allows children to express and process their emotions in a safe environment. Whether acting out scenarios through pretend play or using creative outlets like drawing or storytelling, children learn to manage their feelings, cope with stress, and build resilience against adversity. It was pleasing to see the work of Margaret Lowenfeld (1890 – 1973), a British pioneer of child psychology and play therapy, recognised recently in the Science Museum. Lowenfeld was key in the development of sand tray therapy and how children play with toys to help children communicate their experiences and help them move forward through difficult experiences and trauma.
The importance of play should not be underestimated. Play is not just a break from learning—it is an essential tool for psychological development. By prioritising play, we nurture happier, more confident, and emotionally resilient children.
https://www.centreforyounglives.org.uk/play-commission/news
https://www.bps.org.uk/research-digest/episode-24-how-children-learn-through-play
https://www.bps.org.uk/news/decp-welcomes-calls-mps-prioritise-outdoor-play-children
