Active play, which includes anything that gets your child doing something, is important for the healthy growth and development of children. It helps them develop, physically, with strong bones and muscles. Active play also helps to develop children mentally by providing a way to explore themselves and their role in the world around them. In this article, we will discuss the ways that active play helps to develop skills that will be useful for the duration of your child’s life. When these skills are developed at a young age, it helps to produce healthier children and more successful adults.

Critical Thinking and Logic

Active play helps a child to think outside the box to explore whatever it is that they are playing with and how it functions in the world around them. As is the case with navigating an obstacle, putting something together, or making something work the child must explore the activity and make several attempts before getting it right. If something, like an obstacle course, requires a specific sequence and one task is dependent on the previous one, it helps the child realize that they must perform step sequentially and they will have to think through what they are doing before they do it, rather than mindlessly perform tasks. This helps throughout life, to help the child be more logical and to relate information to solve complex problems.

Cooperation and Teamwork

Active play with other children, especially in the form of team games, helps a child to develop the skills of coordination and teamwork. To be successful in team games or as a part of a group, team members must work together toward a common goal and be respectful of each other. Children will learn very quickly that if they are not contributing positively, whether not at all or being a negative member, they will be picked last or left without a voice. Being a part of a group or team helps to develop camaraderie and a sense of belonging that encourages teamwork. These skills are useful throughout life in relationships, school, and in jobs as an adult.

Self-Esteem

Through active play, children discover what they are capable of. Proving to themselves that they are stronger or smarter than they thought helps to build a positive self-image. Positive feedback from parents, peers, teachers, or coaches helps to encourage children to try again, even if they fail. This helps children develop a positive outlook on life and creates a positive self-image. Self-esteem is a very valuable skill in life that will help steer them away from trouble and down a path of success.

Active play has many benefits for children of all ages. Those who do not engage in active play often have a hard time learning new skills and coping with challenges. Active play can include anything that requires the child to “do,” including hands-on creativity, role-playing, or exercise. Help your child grow and develop in a healthy way by encouraging active play everyday! If you are looking for a great way to get your child moving, check out Rebounderz Trampoline Park today!