Introduction

It is common knowledge that play has a key role in early child development. During the first years of our lives, games and fantasy situations are invaluable educational tools, which can teach us various skills and instil life lessons. But did you also know that play is just as important for teenagers as it is for toddlers? Both toddlers and teenagers undergo significant transformations in their brains as they grow. As such, play is crucial for both groups in promoting brain development. In this blog post, we will have a look at what play is, and underline the benefits of play for teenagers.

What is play?

To begin with, let’s quickly look at what play is, and how teenagers can engage with it. A dictionary definition suggests “an activity for enjoyment and recreation rather than a serious or practical purpose”. For teenagers, this play can take the form of:

• Sports
• Dance
• Drama
• Arts and crafts
• Music
• Geo-caching
• Board and card games
• Legos
• Construction and model-making sets
• Spending time with friends

Reasons why play is important for teens

It supports mental well-being

Firstly, play has proven to be very effective in promoting well-being among teenagers. One way that it does so is by acting as a stress relief in the short and long term. Play is fun, so causes the release of feel-good hormones serotonin and dopamine. Combined, these hormones assist with digestive movements, and sleep patterns, and also have a mood-boosting effect. Research has also demonstrated that play protects children and teenagers from the damage caused by long periods of stressful situations. So overall, play is very effective as a stress relief.

It bolsters emotional development

In addition, play strengthens teenagers’ emotional development, by providing a space for teenagers to explore their feelings and express themselves. Imaginative scenarios can help teens to make sense of themselves, cultivate their interests and discover more about the world around them. Play provides a safe space to try new things, take risks, and learn from mistakes, all in a low-risk environment with fewer consequences. Moreover, play provides teenagers with the opportunity to learn to regulate difficult emotions, such as anticipation, disappointment, and frustration. Asides from practical skills, play can teach teenagers resilience, by putting them in situations where they must overcome setbacks and complications.

It promotes self-esteem

Another benefit of play is that it can boost a teenager’s sense of self-esteem and confidence. Learning a new skill, connecting with others, or other small victories creates a sense of accomplishment. Often, they will have to set goals, where they will face several challenges and difficulties to meet. From working hard, the reward is extra sweet. At the end of a successful competition, match, or completed project, the sense of satisfaction contributes to a boost in self-confidence. Equally, joining a team, club, or other type of community can provide a sense of belonging, is helpful for teens looking to connect with others, and is also an excellent opportunity to meet new people.

It helps social development

Team activities promote essential skills such as communication, empathy, and cooperation. These are all fundamental for success in the adult world. Team sports, orchestras, music groups, theatre troupes, volunteering organizations, community groups, and more are excellent ways for teenagers to connect with like-minded people, have fun, and make new friends. Building and maintaining friendships through play can help teens feel appreciated by others. Play also enables teenagers to practice conflict resolution. Practically, activities such as negotiating rules in a game or finding compromises during group play, enable teens to learn to communicate assertively, problem-solve, and work towards finding compromises.

It strengthens intellectual development

When teens play, they develop their executive functioning skills, by having to do problem-solving and creative thinking. For example, when they participate in theatrical activities, they develop their linguistic skills, enhance their vocabulary and practice their writing skills. Equally, when teens build a model from scratch, they practice their measuring, calculating, and building skills. Equally, play can ignite a desire for further knowledge and development, inspiring teens to keep exploring and learning.

It benefits physical development

Physical and mental health are fundamental elements of our well-being. Therefore, we must establish healthy routines around sports to lay the foundations for continual success. Building a habit is easier to do when younger, so creating a good relationship with sport and helping your teen find a sport they enjoy is something they will be grateful for in a few years. Not only can playing develop cardiovascular health and coordination, but hobbies that involve manipulating small objects can improve manual dexterity, precision, and fine motor skills.

It develops extra-curricular interests

Play can be beneficial in helping adolescents develop interests and hobbies outside of the classroom, enabling them to become more well-rounded individuals. Such activities provide teenagers the opportunity to discover what interests them and learn about their strengths and passions. These insights are valuable in helping guide them toward finding what they wish to pursue in their free time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, playtime is not over for teenagers! Engaging in play is crucial for their overall development and well-being: physically, emotionally, and socially. However your teen chooses to play, they have so much to gain in terms of skills and multiple forms of intelligence. Taking a break from screen time activities is highly beneficial for teens and enables them to become more well-rounded individuals. So, let’s encourage our teenagers to play.