www.freemanhealth.com/peds
Dr. Beth Garrett, Freeman Health
System Pediatrician
In the last decade, the time children
spend in active play (i.e. play that does
not involve screen time) has decreased.
This is problematic because while
play may seem like fun and games to
adults, it is actually crucial to a child's
development.
All areas of a child's life improve with
increase access to free play. From
infancy through adolescence, play
improves children's abilities to handle
toxic stress in their lives. The joy of
playing, along with the interaction with
parents and/or peers, helps manage the
body's stress response.
Play also helps improve children's
social skills and problem-solving
skills by providing opportunities to
interact, negotiate and develop language
skills. Kids who engage more in more
free play do better in the classroom,
too. The American Academy of
Pediatrics reports that children who
engaged in active hour for even one
hour per day were able to think more
creatively and multitask better.
Of course, there are also physical
benefits to play. The exercise
involved in play promotes core
strength and balance, healthy weight
and cardiovascular fitness. Just as
importantly, it enhances the immune
system, decreases depression and
increases motor skills.
Parents can help their kids get more
playtime by:
✓
Get the kids outdoors. Enjoy time
outside together.
✓
Put the screens down. Try having
a designated place to put the screens
when everyone gets home and spend time
together rather than on your phones.
✓
Use low-tech, simple toys. Even a
box can be a great toy for a young
child. Simple toys like puzzles, blocks and
books also increase creativity.
✓
Get together with family and
friends. Adults can relax and watch
the kids while the children play together.
Visit www.freemanhealth.com/pediatrics
for more information about pediatric
services at Freeman Health System. For
additional ideas about how to integrate
more playtime in your child's life,
visit healthychildren.org.
SponSor Content
More than
Fun & Games
FROM
THE
FIRST
DAY
TO
HIGH
SCHOOL
GRADUATION
YOU HAVE A HOME
FOR YOUR
CHILD'S HEALTHCARE!
freemanhealth.com/peds
8 • ApRIl 2023 • www.OfficialKidsMag.com
