Play

Some people talk about play as if it were a relief from serious learning; but, for children, play is serious business.

It provides a way for them to express strong feelings about important events in their lives. Play gives children a chance to work out problems on their own, to cope with anxieties, and to prepare for life as an adult by pretending about being grown up.

Through play, children discover the world and learn more about themselves. -- Fred Rogers

Getting Serious About Play!

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, "Play is essential to development as it contributes to the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and youth. Play also offers an ideal opportunity for parents to engage fully with their children. Despite the benefits derived from play for both children and parents, time for free play has been markedly reduced for some children."

From the American Academy of Pediatrics' report:
The Importance of Play in Promoting Healthy Child Development and Maintaining Strong Parent-Child Bonds