Play: How important is it for kids?

In childhood, many “forces” contribute to social and therefore motor development. One of them is play, an activity that is primarily connected with children. Play is a fun activity that is generally movement oriented. Motivation to play is inherent – play has no other purpose. This seemingly insignificant act is in fact a critical part of learning the rules of society as well as many skills critical to functioning in society. Play is crucial for development, as it affects all aspects of well-being, especially communication skills, cognitive ability and of course motor development. Play can be categorized in many ways. There are two general categories: object play and interpersonal play. Object play involves interaction while interpersonal play involves playing with another person. During object play, children often examine and explore the characteristics of toys such as size, shape, texture, color. The effect of play on the overall development of the child was demonstrated in a study of 30 children from an orphanage in India. Pilates is useful and efficient for every human body. If you want to teach this popular method to kids then attend the specialised seminar “Kids Pilates” organised by Base Training.  Children, aged 2½ to 5 years, were assessed for motor, mental and physical characteristics as well as for social maturity. They were then exposed to a “structured”, daily play program that was incorporated into the orphanage routine. After 3 months, all children were re-evaluated to determine the impact of the play program. Children improved in all the areas they were assessed and there was generally an increase in activity levels and more independence. The game is often based on movement. When movements such as running, jumping, or even clapping or laughing are involved, the pleasant aspects of play come up more easily. Team play becomes especially evident in early school age. However, play seems to evolve through a series of increasingly social stages before reaching a point of group participation. As children’s social skills develop, group activities become more engaging and sought after more often. Increased participation in popular group movement activities then facilitate the child’s motor development. Thus a positive, reciprocal relationship can be developed between social and motor development. In fact, one form of development may depend on the other. Πηγή: «Human Motor Development”-A Lifespan approach (Greg Payne, Larry Isaacs) Recent Articles