Free play, as the name implies, gives children the freedom to play without specific rules and direct adult guidance. It is a space that allows them to develop the best version of themselves without fear of being judged!
But free and unstructured play not only gives children the perfect space to do and be whatever they want, but it also has important implications for healthy development and well-being throughout their childhood.
Let’s talk about other benefits that free play provides to children:
Your kid can enhance self-knowledge and self-expression
When your child is no longer subject to the rules of the sport, he or she is free to participate in activities that may be of greater interest. This allows them to discover their likes and dislikes, which helps them practice skills related to self-awareness.
In addition, all play activities such as jumping, sliding, climbing, or running from free play give children the opportunity to explore their fears and challenge themselves, which in the long run will be a fundamental basis for strong self-esteem.
Also, free play has a positive and huge impact on emotional development because it promotes good self-expression of feelings. But not just that, you kid every child has their unique way of express whishes and ideas, therefore playing is perfect to practice communication skills.
Playing is equal to freedom!
Generally, there are not some of the “pressures” that can be present in other leisure activities such as sports where a specific set of instructions must be followed or certain skills are required to perform it.
There aren’t external goals that may limit the child’s activity. In many cases, when children are involved in sports they have driven the losing or winning, but playing is more motivated just by the fact of having fun! Also, because kids have the chance to explore things on their own, they learn about making their own decisions, which is one of the most effective ways to build confidence and foster independence and autonomy.
So being able to play freely is just as important as playing sports when we are growing up.
Free play is fundamental to children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. That’s why making sure that your child has a safe space with adequate tools to play in is very important.
How about full playground equipment for your children to play freely?
At Westplay, we help you to design and build your dreamed playground…don’t hesitate more and contact us at 604-424-4168 – info@westplay.ca
