The Benefits of Playing Actively: What a Study Showed
After looking at the play habits of over five hundred young adults, researchers at the University of Ulster in Great Britain came to some interesting conclusions. Children who engaged in more active play - requiring more physical activity - not surprisingly, had a greater likelihood of exercising as adults - and enjoyed better overall better health than those whose play was more sedentary as youngsters. Could some of the skills acquired during active play carry over into adulthood?
Like children who chose active play, kids who engaged in creative play were more likely to lead a healthy lifestyle - by eating better and getting regular exercise. They also were more concerned about health issues as adults. On the downside, kids who werent allowed to play or were only given limited play time, were more likely to be overweight as adults and less likely to practice good health habits.
How Children Play: The Benefits
Children who are given the time for active and creative play could end up being healthier adults. Playing actively is a form of mental and physical release which gives a child the opportunity to develop new skills while, at the same time, tapping into their creativity. When a child plays with other children, it also helps to build social skills which can make a child more comfortable in social situations later in life.
Play is often thought of as frivolous in our society - and some parents even think its a waste of time when children play too much. But these studies show that play has benefits for children while theyre young - which can carry over into adult life.
The Benefits of Children Playing Actively and Creatively
Letting your child engage in active and creative play could help him or her to be a healthier adult. Dont underestimate the value of active play for a child.
References:
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/185472.php
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