Test Tube – Amy Shira Teitel
“Developmental scientists have determined that playing is crucial in child development, giving kids a safe and fun way to learn the physical, intellectual, and social skills that will ultimately turn them into well-rounded adults…As children get older, playing allows them to blow off steam and recharge their brains. A 2006 study found that even just 10 to 20 minute recess breaks enabled kids to focus better and ultimately be more successful academically…Research shows that unstructured play is a vital break from life’s daily stresses. Playing relieves stress, boosts creativity, improves brain function, and can even improve our relationships with peers by building stronger bonds of trust…Despite all this, Boston College psychology professor Peter Gray has found that “free play time” is becoming a thing of the past. In an article in The American Journal of Play, he said that children’s free play time has been steadily declining since 1955 in large part because adults are exercising increased control over their kids.”(more)