There is a close link between the mental health of kids and play. As more and more parents and teachers have begun to understand the necessity of free play and recess for kids, behavioral professionals are starting to examine the effects of play on the development of kids. The results show that play is not another frivolous activity for children. It is, in fact, a crucial one for their overall wellbeing.
Playgrounds in community parks or schools can serve as a stepping stone for encouraging kids to move towards a well-balanced, healthy life, including one with good mental health, well-rounded social relationships, and improved cognitive function.
Let us look at how regular play activities can improve the mental health of kids.
1) Physical Activity Boosts Positive Feelings
Almost every type of outdoor play involves some kind of physical activity. According to research, any form of exercise can have a positive impact on the mental health of kids. The reason being, exercise can help in the secretion of feel-good hormones known as endorphins, which in turn, can foster high self-esteem in kids.
2) Play Teaches Kids How to Navigate Conflict
While engaged in outdoor play, kids have the opportunity to practice imaginative play. This form of play can give them the freedom and confidence to approach real-life situations. They can also recreate struggles and conflicts during their playtime and learn how to come up with creative solutions. This can not only help them feel happier but also braver when facing real-life situations.
3) It’s a Good Opportunity to Expend Energy
There are times when kids compartmentalize and hold onto strong emotions. This can create a pent-up supply of anxiety, anger, and build up negativity. Active play offers an excellent opportunity for children to channel these feelings in a controlled, healthy environment. When kids feel free to express their emotions, they are less likely to engage in any kind of destructive behavior.
4) It Establishes Normalcy & Promotes Healing
Childhood can often be a landscape of confusion. Especially for kids with disabilities. Kids sometimes may even have difficulty in understanding social stigmas and disruptions caused in our society. Inclusive playgrounds serve as an equalizer to these issues. They offer kids a neutral space where they can meet, build meaningful social relationships, find similarities with others and learn how to navigate social situations while having fun.
Improve Your Playground for Outdoor Play
Playgrounds are essential for children to let their imagination run free, and having visually appealing themed playground equipment can help children develop their cognitive, physical, and creative skills. They are an excellent way for children to apply theoretical concepts that they learn in class. What’s more, incorporating themed play structures can even promote teamwork and help kids make friends in the playground, thereby developing their emotional and social skills.
We hope you have gained some noteworthy insights from this blog. For decades, Arihant Play has been helping communities design playgrounds that stimulate the mind and body by providing a large selection of outdoor playground equipment for kids of all ages. Our equipment is designed to both entertain and inspire kids and help them reap the benefits of outdoor play.
Feel free to get in touch with us if you have any more queries. Our experts are here to serve and guide you through every step of the way!
