The Importance of Play
An article was recently released entitled, “Play Deprivation Is A Major Cause of the Teen Mental Health Crisis” by Jon Haidt and Peter Gray. The article and related TEDTalk by Peter Gray discuss that, over the past 50 to 60 years, there has been a continuous erosion in children’s freedom and opportunity to play. Due to this decrease in play, there has been a well-documented increase in anxiety, depression, and narcissism. We have also seen a decline in creative thinking and a decline in internal locus of control meaning that you MAKE things happen. Therefore, this has caused an increase in an external locus of control meaning things happen TO you.
Play, by definition is self-controlled and self-directed. Play is where children learn that they are in control of their life, and in reality, it really is the only place they are in control of their own life. Play is where they learn to solve their own problems which also helps them to learn that the world can be a safe and secure place. Play is where they experience joy and they are able to learn that the world is not so depressing after all. Play is where they learn to get along with peers and develop empathy by seeing the perspective of another individual. Play, by definition is creative and innovative. Therefore, it makes sense that a decrease in play has caused this massive shift in our world.
Play therapy keeps all of this in mind by simply honoring the importance of play. Play allows your child to develop the skills they need now and for the future. In play therapy, play is your child’s communication and the toys are the words. During play therapy sessions, your child is able to lead, direct, and be in control. The therapist offers a safe and supportive environment along with an authentic and empathetic relationship. This allows your child to be fully free to be themselves and explore their perspective of themselves and of the world. Your child is able to process concerns, learn alternative skills to manage stressors, and better understand their value, worth, and who they are. Play is a necessary part of childhood, and quite frankly, a necessary component in all of our lives. Therefore, let’s honor its importance and use the powers of play to help, heal and grow.
For further reading/watching we recommend:
“Play Deprivation Is A Major Cause of the Teen Mental Health Crisis” by Jon Haidt and Peter Gray
“The Decline of Play” TedTalk by Peter Gray
