The Benefits of Play for your Child

Building Strong Emotional Bonds Through Play

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Playing with your children is a natural human instinct. Whether it is rough housing, playing pretend, or using toys, this type of activity is seemingly hardwired in the human brain. Kids play in all kinds of ways—pretending to be superheroes, running and climbing outside, building with blocks, or getting messy with paint and sand. Some play with friends, learning to share and take turns, while others enjoy quiet time alone with puzzles or dolls. Each type of play helps them grow, explore, and express themselves.
it may seem somewhat insignificant at surface-level, playing with your child has many benefits. In fact, play is incredibly significant to the growth and development of your child!

Play is how children understand the world

Garry Landreth, the founder of child-centered play therapy, states that “toys are children’s words, and play is their language”. He goes on to state that children frequently use playing as symbolic self-expression. Play can represent things that they desire, need, or are experiencing in their lives. Children do not operate in the cognitive or verbal world; they express through play. Play is an important part of services for children and adolescents in our office as research shows.

You have already seen the power of play

You may have observed this truth in your own children. The ease they use their imagination is automatic. You have witnessed them recreating adult relationships in their play with others. Children are powerful observers as well. When your child shares with you what they see others doing, this is emotional learning in action. We also know that physically active children are healthier. This is what helps them to develop balance and hand eye coordination. Think back. Your young athlete’s skill and responsiveness improves each season. These are examples of how play helps the child socially, emotionally, and physically as the grow. 

Be a part of their growth through play

Playing with your children presents an opportunity to create a space that is safe for them. This gives them the potential to express what they are wanting, needing, or experiencing in a manner that is natural and comfortable for them. In this way you are meeting them where they are.  So why not play more? 

Playing with your has multiple potential benefits: 

1. Assisting the development of secure emotional attachment
   • The way a child learns to attach to others is based on their life circumstances. This is especially true during their critical development periods. To develop a secure attachment a few things are required. First, emotional attunement. This means noticing their cues, offering comfort, and validating their emotions in a consistent, nurturing way. Second, a safe environment. This provides the sense of security children need to explore the world and return for reassurance. Lastly, parents who positively interact with their children. This is done by the use of warmth, playfulness, eye contact, and gentle guidance—teach children that relationships can be a source of joy, support, and stability.
2. Bolstering Emotion Regulation Skills 
   • While playing with a child, there are often situations in which the child can become very angry or frustrated. You can model healthy emotion regulation during play. This helps guide them through frustrating situations. In this way, the child can learn how to pro-social behaviors to other circumstances when you are not present. These practice situations create opportunities to learn coping skills and conflict resolution. 
3. Building Self-Confidence 
   • During play, children may often find themselves in tough situations to overcomel. Parents can empower the child by supporting them as they conquer the challenges they face during play. This process can assist in the development of individuality and self-confidence. Confidence also enhances a child to try new things that may feel difficulty at first. 
4. Reinforcement of Positive Behaviors 
   • During play, children may exhibit behaviors that are both positive and negative. Playing with your child can provide an opportunity for you to reinforce positive behaviors in real time.  When positive behaviors occur, you can reinforce those behaviors with phrases like “I noticed you sharing your toy with me, great job!” These responses increase the presence of positive behaviors.
5. Mutual Enjoyment 
   • Playing offers a unique opportunity for parents and children to connect in a joyful and meaningful way. It’s more than just fun—it’s a shared experience where laughter, imagination, and presence come together. Through play, memories are created and the parent-child bond is deepened. These moments of connection can build trust, encourage communication, and remind children that they are seen and valued.

Play can be an excellent tool to accomplish these goals and more. Through the process of entering their world, you may find that it is an effective tool to add to your parenting toolbelt. Being a “kid” again may feel unnatural initially.  Knowing how to interact and play with your child is a skill that can be learned! Our child therapists are able to set the example and help you learn how to get down to your child’s level.

 

 

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