The Most Important Time is Playtime
It’s common knowledge that children love to play. It’s what they do. What parents might take for granted, though, is how valuable playtime is for a child’s physical, mental, and social development.
Research has shown a correlation between physical activity and higher IQ and test scores among children. Playtime, whether it takes place on the school playground, at a recreation center, or at summer camp, also creates scenarios for children to learn cooperation and other social cues.
Further important cognitive development also occurs when parents get involved with their child’s playtime. When it comes to birthdays and other celebrations, parents will want to find the best party places for kids that combine fun with physical activity and social interaction!
Physical Benefits of Play.
Kids love releasing energy through physical activity. The CDC recommends that children should get about an hour of physical exercise each day. This amount of daily activity helps children maintain a healthy weight and keeps their minds active as well as their bodies. Outdoor playgrounds, games, and sports are great ways for children to get active. Other ways for children to achieve this physical activity is through indoor children activities such as dance classes or indoor sports. Indoor playgrounds are also an option for colder weather, and can provide a safe and fun environment for children to get active and socialize with their peers.
Social and Cognitive Benefits.
Not all play is physical, and even physically extensive play reaps benefits beyond the promotion of strength and a healthy weight. The social and cognitive aspects of playtime is perhaps just as important as the physical aspect. Summer learning activities for kids, Mommy and Me music classes, and other mentally stimulating children activities combine fun with education. Kids will learn cooperation, self-confidence, and problem-solving skills while doing these activities. Attending a summer camp is a good way for a child to socialize with peers while exercising and having fun in a safe and structured environment. Birthday parties are great opportunities for parents to get their children involved in fun activities. The best party places for kids are those that combine physical activity (like indoor playgrounds, for instance) with social and mental stimulation (games like mini-golf and activities like dancing).
Playtime with Parents.
Parent-child activities like Mommy and Me classes specifically promotes bonding between the parent and child. The strengthening of this bond benefits a child’s cognitive development. Parents might also attend summer camp with their child to help guide them and participate in fun family activities. Some of these activities might include arts and crafts, cooking, music, dancing, etc.
Playtime is more important than meets the eye. It is necessary for a child’s physical development, and provides opportunities for kids to socialize and learn about the world around them. If you’re a parent looking for the best party places for kids, look no further than an indoor playground or recreation center where kids can have fun and learn at the same time!