Dr. Soc's View: The Value of Play
A recent article out of Colorado chronicled the benefits of play for children. While many of us think of play time for children as a reward or a way to direct extra energy, the benefits of play may be much deeper. In fact, the article starts with the assertion that "play time is more than playtime for young children." The author goes on to say that many people say play is "the most important piece of a child's mental, physical, social and emotional health."
While structured and unstructured play are both important for a child's development, Christine Gestal, Director of the Play Therapy Institute of Colorado, believes unstructured play is the most important. Gestal say, unstructured play is where children learn "who am I in the world, what's important to me and what do I like and want?" Unstructured play has numerous other benefits as well. From helping children develop creativity, to learning self-control, and cooperation skills, free play (where the child is in control) allows children to explore the world and reap numerous intangible benefits. Gestal explains, "some of the biggest questions we ask as human beings are first explored by kids at playtime."
At HeroMe Lab, we put kids in control of play time. We don't sell "stock" action figures that come with pre-packaged story-lines. Instead, the child is in charge of every aspect of creation and play with his or her HeroMe. From choosing the look and powers of the HeroMe, to developing the HeroMe's personality and adventures, the child has the opportunity to explore, create, and play when he or she plays with HeroMe.
Do Good,
Dr. Socs
While we can’t claim to be doctors, child psychologists, or developmental specialists, we can look to experts like the ones featured here to provide insights into the world of children. At HeroMe, we rely on resources like this as we create toys and experiences that ultimately fulfill our mission: “to inspire creativity and do good.”
Original source for information in this article: here.